Pigment Correction

1. First, check the contraindication (restriction) checklist to make sure you are eligible for pigment correction services.

2. Do not wear makeup on the day of treatment.

3. Excess hair may need to be shaved. Men should be cleanly shaven.

4. Area being treated should be out of the sun 1 week prior to treatment. This also applies to post-treatment so plan accordingly. This also includes tanning beds, spray tans, and tanning lotions.

5. Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)

6. If history of herpes or cold sores, begin an anti-viral medication regimen (like Valtrax) prior to your appointment.

For best results, consider a melanin supresant with hydroquonon. However, due to it's strength, it is advised that you only use for 60-90 days at a time.

Expectations:

• Immediate erythema (minor redness) and edema (mild swelling) often occurs and usually lasts for only a few hours.

• We will sometimes see small areas of pin-point bleeding and occasionally small blisters may form.

• The treated area may itch for several weeks after treatment and your skin may feel dry and flaky.

• Expect "peppering". Due to the nature of the treatment, the brown spots will get darker before they get lighter. Since the laser heated up the pigment and shattered it, the body will eliminate the pigment by sending it to the surface. Eventually from the surface it will slough off. Do not pick at this "crust" to avoid scarring and infection. Treated pigment will exfoliate off the face in approximately 1 week. Treated pigment will exfoliate off the body in approximately 2-3 weeks

• Hyperpigmentation after laser treatment is a common problem and occurs more frequently in patients who get tanned easily. Fortunately, hyperpigmentation is not permanent in most cases. Your body will work to restore homeostasis and the pigmentation will fade in seven to ten days after the treatment.

Post Treatment Care:

• KEEP THE AREA OUT OF THE SUN FOR 7-10 DAYS AFTER TREATMENT.

• Apply cold air or an ice pack to soothe the treated area if needed. You may also use aloe up to 24 hours post-treatment, then you may use a medicated ointment or a fragrance-free, perfume-free moisturizing cream to keep the area hydrated. Apply once a day.

* The use of sunscreen (strong sun blocker) is recommended post-treatment for approximately 6-12 weeks.

• It is best to leave your skin without any make-up for a few days. Some ingredients in cosmetics may clog your pores, and not allow skin to breathe or heal properly over time.