WHY LASER AFTERCARE IS NON-NEGOTIABLE

Following a laser service, the skin is in a highly vulnerable state. The protective barrier is temporarily compromised, which means the skin can't defend itself against environmental stressors as effectively. Your client's skin will likely look and feel a little inflamed as it recovers from the thermal energy of the laser—this is a normal part of the recovery process.

You’ll also notice the skin loses moisture more quickly, leaving it susceptible to dehydration. This is also a critical time for managing pigment. Without the right IPL aftercare, clients can easily develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so it's important to guide them carefully.

THE PHASES OF POST-LASER RECOVERY

To help your client through recovery, it's helpful to think about their laser aftercare in phases. Their skin's needs will change as it mends over the next few days and weeks.

IMMEDIATE STEPS

The Day of and the Day After

Right after the appointment, prioritize comfort and protection. Recommend cool compresses for comfort and instruct clients to wash only once a day with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser. They should apply a fragrance-free balm or post-procedure ointment to seal in moisture. Strictly enforce no actives, no makeup and no sun.

ACTIVE RECOVERY

2 – 3 Days After

Over the next few days, your client's laser aftercare should focus on gentle cleansing and deep hydration. They can now wash their face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. After cleansing, it's time to bring in a hydrating serum with ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid or peptides. Follow this up with a moisturiser that supports the skin's barrier, looking for ingredients like ceramides or Niacinamide.

SPF is non-negotiable! Remind them to apply it every morning and reapply every two hours. It's also critical that they resist the urge to pick or exfoliate their skin. Actives are still off-limits for now.

RECOVERY PHASE

3 – 7 Days After

Once the redness starts to fade, your clients can keep up the same IPL aftercare routine. If they haven't already, this is a good time to bring in a low-strength Niacinamide serum to help soothe and strengthen the skin. Daily SPF is still a must, and it's important to continue avoiding strong ingredients like Retinol, AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C, fragrances and scrubs.

FULL RETURN

1 – 3 Weeks After

Once the skin has completely normalized, clients can slowly reintroduce active ingredients one at a time. Start at low concentrations. Vitamin C and gentle Retinol can return first. AHAs and BHAs should return last. And of course, advise daily SPF protection.

PRODUCTS TO RECOMMEND

As you build a laser aftercare kit for your clients, focus on gentle hydration and barrier support. Here are excellent GlyMed+ options:

• Ultra Hydro Gel: A staple rich in Hyaluronic Acid to combat elevated trans-epidermal water loss.
• CBD Soothing Serum with Micro-Silver: This advanced serum utilizes Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide and peptides to soothe and balance compromised skin.
• Protective Skin Serum with Ceramides: Formulated with ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid to replenish lipids and support a healthy barrier.
• Bio Renewal Serum: Features Hyaluronic Acid and peptides to encourage firmness without irritation.

THINGS TO AVOID

Certain ingredients and habits will trigger severe irritation or compromise the results of a laser service. Ask your clients to avoid:

• Retinoids: Too stimulating for vulnerable skin.
• AHAs and BHAs: Chemical exfoliants may cause burning after a laser treatment, as well as excess inflammation.
• Vitamin C: Highly acidic and irritating immediately post-procedure.
• Synthetic Fragrance: A common allergen that easily irritates a compromised barrier.
• Physical Exfoliants: Scrubbing damages delicate cells.
• Hot Water: Increases inflammation and strips natural oils.
• Excessive UV Exposure: Leads to prolonged redness and pigment issues.

HOW PIGMENTATION RISK CHANGES THE PROTOCOL

When creating a laser aftercare plan, it's important to consider your client's skin tone. If your client has a darker skin tone (Fitzpatrick Skin Types IV – VI), they have a higher chance of developing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after a laser treatment. This is because heat and inflammation can easily lead to an overproduction of melanin. To support their skin, you'll want to keep a close eye on their sun exposure and introduce gentle Tyrosinase Inhibitors with products like our Pigment Brightening Serum as soon as their skin is ready.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW SOON CAN MY CLIENT RETURN TO THEIR FULL SKINCARE ROUTINE AFTER LASER?

Most clients can return to their full skincare routine 1 – 2 weeks after a laser service. This timeline depends on the intensity of the specific device used and the individual's skin response. Wait until all redness and flaking resolve so active ingredients don't cause unexpected irritation.

CAN MY CLIENT USE MAKEUP AFTER LASER?

Clients should avoid wearing makeup for at least 24 – 48 hours following a laser appointment. Keeping the skin completely clean prevents bacteria from entering the compromised barrier and causing breakouts. Once the skin begins to normalize, mineral-based makeup is a safe option.

CAN LASER TREATMENTS CAUSE TEMPORARY DRYNESS OR PEELING?

Yes, temporary dryness and peeling are expected side effects as the skin sheds damaged cells. Laser energy increases trans-epidermal water loss and accelerates cellular turnover. Applying a barrier-supportive moisturizer during a laser aftercare routine is the best way to keep the client comfortable while this process concludes.

WHY IS SUNSCREEN IMPORTANT AFTER LASER TREATMENTS?

Sunscreen is required because laser services leave the skin highly vulnerable to severe UV damage. Without the protection of an intact barrier, UV exposure quickly leads to sunburn and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Daily application of SPF will protect the client's investment and ensure an even complexion.

ELEVATE YOUR POST-LASER PROTOCOLS TODAY

Providing exceptional laser aftercare sets you apart as a knowledgeable and trustworthy skincare professional. When you supply your clients with the right GlyMed+ products and clear instructions, they'll enjoy comfortable downtime and stunning results.

Become a GlyMed+ Professional today to stock up on essential barrier-supportive formulas and valuable knowledge.