Extra pigment in the skin will always negatively impact the success of laser treatments and light based treatments. It is important to be at your lightest skin color possible to ensure the most success during the course of your sessions.

What is Vbeam PDL Laser?

The Vbeam Perfecta laser is designed to effectively treat skin rosacea, broken blood vessels and other vascular abnormalities. Multiple treatments every 2-6 weeks may be necessary for optimal results.

Who should NOT have Vbeam PDL? 

• If you have taken Accutane (Isotretinoin) in the past 6 months
• History of adverse reaction to laser treatments
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• If your skin is tan, via the sun or sunless tanning products
• If you have had filler or Botox (or other neuromodulator) within the last 2 weeks or plan to have it within 2 weeks post treatment.

Pre-treatment instructions:

2 weeks prior to treatment discontinue the following:

• Sunless tanners
• Sun exposure
• Tanning beds

10 days prior to treatment discontinue the following:

• Waxing
• Chemical Peels of any type
• Sun sensitizing medications including high dose antibiotics

5 days prior to treatment discontinue the following:

• Vitamin C topicals
• Anti-Aging Topicals
• Alpha Hydroxy (Glycolic or Lactic Acid)
• Beta Hydroxy (Salicylic Acid)
  Hydroquinone/Skin
• Bleaching Agents – including any laser pre-treat compound creams, Obagi Clear or Blender
• Retinol Products – including Retin-A, Tretinoin Cream, laser pre-treat compound creams

Day of Treatment:

• If possible, come to your appointment with clean skin.
• Shave any hair-bearing areas the day before treatment.
• Let your provider know if you have a history of cold sores prior to treatment, as they may prescribe an antiviral to help prevent a breakout which can occur post laser treatment.

*Consuming alcohol 24 hours before or 24 hours after a laser skin treatment can cause excess swelling in the treatment area and the areas surrounding. It is not recommended that you consume any alcoholic beverages in this time frame.

Post-treatment Instructions:

Following treatment, please do the following:

• Wash your hands with an antibacterial hand soap prior to any performing any aftercare
• Cleanse twice daily with a gentle cleanser (like Cetaphil or Obagi Gentle Cleanser), using your hands in a gentle patting motion DO NOT rub, scrub, use an exfoliant or skin care brush or wash cloth on the treated area
• Avoid excessive heat like very hot showers, hot tubs, saunas, and swimming pools for the first 72 hours post treatment.
• Sunscreen is a MUST and should be used daily beginning the day after treatment and used consistently for up to 3 months post procedure. Use a physical sunscreen with Broadband UVA and UVB protection and a SPF of 30. Ensure to reapply during sun exposure.
• Avoid irritating topical medications and prescription skin care products for 1 week after treatment.

1-2 months following treatment:

• Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds
• Always using an SPF of 30 or higher, reapplying throughout the day if needed
• Your skin will be more light sensitive.

Expected Downtime:

• The treated area may be pink/red for 4-8 hours after treatment. You may also feel a slight stinging sensation in the treatment area during this time. Swelling is likely and usually lasts for may 3-5 days.
• Inflammation (swelling): Treatment with the Vbeam usually presents a minimal amount of swelling that can also last 24-48 hours. It is usually most noticeable around the eyes where the skin is thinner. If this occurs, avoid sodium and alcohol. Apply cold compress for 10 minutes every hour (avoid ice and do cold compresses instead). Elevate the head of your bed while sleeping. Taking antihistamines (Claritin or Zyrtec) for 5 days may also decrease swelling.
• Bruising: A small percentage of patients may experience bruising. This can take 1-2 weeks to fully resolve.
• Discomfort: Mild irritation and discomfort is expected. You may use Tylenol Extra Strength 1-2 tabs every 6 hours and cold compress for 10 minutes each hour.

For best results and efficacy, we recommend a series of 3-5 treatments administered at 2-4 week intervals and maintenance session in the future as needed.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call our office at 941.264.1161 and one of our nurses will be glad to assist you.