TIPS FROM THE AB CREW
Your Guide to Laser & Light Season
How to Prep Your Skin for Maximum Results
Now that fall is in full swing and winter is just around the corner, we’ve officially entered peak laser and light treatment season at Ari Blanc Medical Spa in Philadelphia. Wondering how to prepare your skin for safe and effective treatments? Here’s my go-to advice to help you get the best results this season.
Why are Fall & Winter Are Perfect for Laser & Light Treatments? Cooler weather means less sun exposure, giving your skin the perfect environment to heal and reveal its refreshed glow. Whether you’re addressing pigmentation, texture, or fine lines, now is the time to invest in your skin.
The Non-Negotiable: SPF
I often hear patients say things like, “I just drive to work,” or “I only take short walks with the dog,” but trust me, all of that counts as UV exposure. Even sitting near a window at home or work exposes your skin to harmful UV rays.
When it comes to photofacial treatments like BBL, IPL, or OPL, avoiding direct sun exposure for at least three weeks before treatment is crucial. Consistent sunscreen application helps ensure safety and minimizes the risk of burns. These treatments target pigmentation in the skin, so any recent unprotected sun exposure can increase the risk of complications.
For resurfacing laser treatments, there’s less risk of burning, but avoiding sun exposure and using SPF is always best practice.
Pause Certain Products & Medications Before Your Treatment
Discontinue the use of retinoids and exfoliating products about a week before your session. If you’re taking any photosensitizing medications, these should also be paused 5–7 days before treatment.
If you have questions or concerns about stopping specific products or medications, always discuss them with your practitioner.
At Ari Blanc Medical Spa in Philly, we believe in partnering with you on your skincare journey and thoughtfully guiding you every step of the way. Our practitioners have the experience to create personalized treatment plans that truly work for you.
Target Pigmentation Issues with Tyrosinase Inhibitors
Many patients come to us for laser or light treatments to address pigmentation concerns. For the best results, I recommend prepping the skin 2–4 weeks before your appointment with tyrosinase inhibitors.
Tyrosinase inhibitors are ingredients that prevent the production of melanin in the skin. The gold standard is still hydroquinone; however, I prefer to put my patients on more sustainable solutions such as A-Luminate by Alastin or Even by SkinBetter.
I’ve seen incredible results with both of these products and I like to keep patients on these even after treatment for maintenance. Depending on the severity of the pigment correction, I sometimes even want to prep the skin with a mid-depth peel such as VI Peel in order to kick-start correction.
Strengthen & Prep Skin for Resurfacing Treatments
For patients preparing for resurfacing treatments, I highly recommend using Nectar by Alastin whenever possible.
This product, featuring Alastin’s Tri-Hex Technology, is a game-changer. It clears out old collagen and elastin while strengthening your skin’s extracellular matrix. In simple terms, it fortifies your skin’s health and barrier while promoting the production of new collagen and elastin.
Healthier skin responds better to wound-healing processes, and using Nectar during recovery significantly speeds up healing time. (No, this isn’t sponsored—I’m just genuinely obsessed!)
Consult Your Practitioner for Personalized Prep
While these are my personal recommendations, always follow the protocols and prep steps your practitioner provides. At Ari Blanc Medical Spa, we tailor every treatment plan to fit your skin’s unique needs, ensuring the best outcomes.
Happy Lasering!!!
Let’s Get You Glowing!
Ready to start your laser and light treatment journey? Book a consultation with us at Ari Blanc Medical Spa in Philadelphia, where our team of expert clinicians is dedicated to helping you achieve radiant, healthy skin.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards healthier, radiant skin.
