Laser therapy for vascular lesions
Purpuria accompanied by hyperemia is the immediate effect after the application of a 585 nm pulsed dye laser to treat vascular lesions. Intermittent wave (CW) lasers, for example copper, krypton, KTP, and argon-powered dye vapor lasers, cause reddening of the skin with widening of the tiny blood vessels near their surface and additional buildup of fluid in tissue cells.
Restorative measures generally include:
o Protect the skin from the sun.
o Use a topical antibiotic ointment 7-10 days after laser application.
o Use only mild, soothing soap, for example Catrix Correction Cream Wash, BiOz azulene cleanser, Cetaphil or Aquanil, twice a day on healing spots.
Laser treatment of tattoos and pigmented lesions
The pigment or tattoo turns ash white or purple after laser therapy.
Restorative measures generally include:
o Rinse corrected spots with mild soap and water twice a day, 1 to 2 weeks after laser application.
o Use an antibiotic ointment after each wash and continue this regimen until the stain is restored.
o Use sunscreen and bandages to protect treated areas from the sun.
Laser treatment for vascular lesions, lentigos, tattoos, hypertrophic or keloid scars.
Here the corrected skin is very sensitive and requires great care 7-10 days after therapy. Post-treatment blemishes take weeks to disappear.
Restorative measures generally include:
o Use Bacitracin, Polysporin or Bactroban ointment and apply a Telfa protective pad with adhesive. This should be done once or twice a day for 7 to 10 days. Avoid Neosporin at corrected points.
o Take short showers but avoid long baths. After bathing, gently dry the corrected areas with a soft cloth. Never wipe vigorously with a towel.
o Apply acetaminophen (Tylenol) when there is short-term irritation. In case of prolonged irritation, consult a doctor.
o Do not take aspirin or aspirin-based medications during the restoration period, which is generally 1 to 2 weeks after therapy.
o Use an ice pack for 10-15 minutes every hour (for 4 hours) on the corrected area to relieve swelling.
o Use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 to prevent sunburn during and after therapy.
o Do not swim or do any contact sports during the healing time.
o Never puncture any blisters or scabs that may appear.
Laser skin resurfacing
The skin turns light pink and slightly inflamed immediately after therapy. After a day or two there is intense redness, fluid accumulation, accompanied by inflammation, suppuration and crusting of the corrected spots. Rest and avoid socializing for the first 7 to 10 days after therapy.