Preparing for Your Laser Resurfacing Treatment
Preparing your skin properly helps promote smoother healing and the best possible outcome. Before your appointment, our team will provide personalized instructions based on your treatment plan, skin type, and medical history.
In general, preparation may include:
- Avoid sun exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight and skip tanning for at least 2 weeks before treatment
- Pause active skincare ingredients: Stop retinoids, glycolic acids, and exfoliating agents 5 to 7 days before your appointment
- Stay hydrated: Well-hydrated skin responds better and recovers more efficiently
- Avoid other treatments: Hold off on waxing, dermabrasion, or chemical peels for at least 2 weeks prior
- Support your skin pre-treatment: A consistent medical-grade skincare regimen in the weeks before treatment helps your skin respond and heal more effectively
- Let us know about cold sore history: We may prescribe preventive antiviral medication
Following these guidelines helps minimize irritation while allowing your skin to respond more effectively to treatment.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your appointment begins with a review of your treatment plan and any questions you may have. Your skin is cleansed and a topical numbing cream is applied to maximize comfort before the laser is used. Depending on the treatment area and depth of resurfacing, additional comfort measures may also be provided.
During treatment, the Alma Hybrid laser delivers controlled energy to the skin in precise patterns. Patients often describe the sensation as warm, with occasional brief tingling. Treatment is generally well tolerated. Most facial treatments are completed within 30 to 60 minutes.
Once your procedure is finished, our experienced skincare providers will apply soothing products and review detailed aftercare instructions before you return home.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Most patients achieve their desired improvement with a single Alma Hybrid session. In some cases, a follow-up treatment may be recommended 3 to 12 months later to build on results. Collagen production continues to increase gradually, with peak visible improvement typically around 6 to 9 months after treatment. During your consultation, we will outline what to expect for your specific concerns.