Laser ALA Acne Treatment

Laser ALA Acne Treatment: Post-Treatment Instructions

After ALA, a small amount of activated substance remains in the skin for 24 to 48 hours. Sunlight and even indoor light may continue to activate remaining substance and cause excessive redness and itching. To avoid undesired side effects, use of sunscreen and physical barriers are highly recommended. We strongly suggest spending the first two days after treatment indoors.

• Wound care may require gently washing the area with soap and water and applying a nonirritating moisturizer that our aesthetician can suggest like Aquaphor. Avoidance of harsh or abrasive cleansers is strongly advised. Picking or scrubbing the skin could cause severe irritation or scarring.
• Most patients are advised to try to avoid applying makeup or powder directly on a fresh or open wound unless the surface is fully healed. A nonirritating sunscreen such as zinc or titanium may be applied immediately after the procedure before leaving the office. Sunscreens are ideally also applied twice a day after treatment.
• Mild to moderate redness and or swelling is not uncommon the first day or two after and can be lessened by application of an ice pack and/or applying a cold compress with 2 tablespoons vinegar in 1 quart water for 10 minutes every 2 hours. Swelling may be more common for procedures around the eyes or lips. Sleeping propped up on a few pillows or in a reclining chair may help decrease swelling after treatment of the head and face area.

A series of about three treatments four weeks apart are the most effective. However, the exact number of sessions required will depend on the severity of skin condition.

Please call Amherst Laser at 413-253-2214 if you have any questions.