If you decide to put the time and money into a laser treatment to reduce pigmentation, here are some recommendations on what you can do to help maintain results and ensure your skin stays pigmentation-free long after your treatment.
What Is a Laser Treatment for Pigmentation?
A laser treatment involves using a device that improves visible skin issues (including pigmentation) with brief pulses of controlled light beams.1 There are different types of laser treatments, including some that are less invasive than others.
Ablative laser treatments remove layers of the skin, while less aggressive non-ablative laser treatments injure the skin without actually removing a layer.2 Your dermatologist will offer guidance on which will work best for your specific concerns and skin type.
Best Treatment Plan For Pigmentation After Laser
Maintaining the results you achieve starts with properly caring for your skin as it heals. Here are the top things you need to do after your treatment.
Stay Out of the Sun (+ SPF)
Protecting your skin from sunlight post-treatment is essential, as your skin will be extra sensitive and more prone to sun damage. When outdoors, try to stay in shaded areas, and wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your face.
You should also wear sunscreen on a daily basis, and continue to reapply throughout the day. For the best protection, stick with SPF 40 (or higher) formulas made with zinc oxide and iron oxide.
Take Targeted Supplements
To continue to protect your skin against pigmentation after the laser treatment, we also recommend taking the Foundation Skincare Pigmentation Defense supplements daily. These dermatologist-formulated capsules contain antioxidants, vitamins, and herbs that help fade discoloration while also helping you maintain the results you’ve achieved from your laser treatment.
Pigmentation Defense
Gentle Cleansing
Since your skin will be especially sensitive, you’ll need to maintain a super gentle skincare routine. As you recover, be sure to cleanse with a mild daily cleanser that doesn’t contain harsh active ingredients.
Keep Moisturized
Your skin needs to be well hydrated and moist so that it can properly heal after treatment. Hyaluronic acid is an ideal ingredient to reach for, as this ingredient pulls moisture to the skin and locks it in. Try the Foundation Skincare Hyaluronic Acid Lotion, a gentle solution that will help restore hydration to the skin.
Reduce Swelling
Swelling and redness post-treatment is common, so you can reach for a cool compress to quell any discomfort. Gentle topical products containing niacinamide (like the Foundation Skincare Niacinamide Lotion) can also be beneficial, as this ingredient helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.3
Pause on the Makeup
It may be tempting to cover up the post-treatment redness with makeup, but it’s not advised. Makeup can irritate your skin, so hold off for a few weeks as you wait for your skin to heal.
Keep Your Head Elevated
To reduce swelling, try sleeping on your back with your head propped up with a few pillows. Try to also be mindful of keeping your head elevated during the day by avoiding lowering your head below your heart.
Next Steps After Laser Treatment
After you achieve your desired results from your skin laser treatment, it’s important to implement steps to maintain your even skin tone. In addition to protecting your skin from the sun and taking the Foundation Skincare Pigmentation Defense supplements on a regular basis, we recommend working topical azelaic acid into your routine.
Azelaic acid helps brighten the complexion and fade the appearance of dark spots, making it a suitable ingredient for those prone to pigmentation.4 The Foundation Skincare Azelaic Acid Cream contains a potent 14% concentration of this ingredient, and helps boost brightness and lighten discoloration. As you continue to protect your skin and use this topical solution in your routine, you can help maintain a clear and even skin tone.
