post-laser questions

[FairyGirl]

okie I just got back from my first laser treatment- was better and also worse than I expected. The pain wasn't too bad; the woman doing it is an RN and she numbed me up pretty well before hand, as well as using some kind of cooling gel and a fan. Some spots hurt like hades though.

I'm mostly concerned about some splotchy dark red patches now on my neck- they look awful! Not all over, just more around the edges. Is this normal? Will they go away soon? Their info sheet did mention something about bruising, and I guess this is what it most looks like, but doesn't feel bruised (I'm still a bit numbed lol) I'd really appreciate hearing any of your experiences with this.

Thanks and hugs,
Chloe

[lizbeth]

hi Chloe

that's completely normal and should pass within a few hours. I don't know if bruising is the term I would use, more like mini sunburns to me. there is a post laser cream that helps with cooling your face afterwards.

it's also not uncommon to develop folliculitis for a week after your session. it's actually progress, but it's horrible having those bumps!

[Valerie Elizabeth]

My face felt like it was sunburned for the afternoon (couple hours).  I also did have some spots that were redder than others.

Also, in about a week or so you are going to start shedding that hair, so just FYI.

[FairyGirl]

oh good, then no worries  Thank you for your replies! 

[Alyssa M.]

You can get some cortizone cream if it doesn't go away by the next morning. I haven't needed it, but my laser tech recommended it. Make sure you don't go too high in intensity of the laser. You can have her turn it down next time if this time was a problem.

By the way -- the hair shedding stage is relly annoying. Actually, I felt really itchy and uncomfortable until it fell out. After that -- yay! What a difference! The best money I've ever spent.

[FairyGirl]

Thanks Alyssa  I have some cortizone cream and I think I'll try it- it seems to have gotten worse after the sun went down- like sunburn does I reckon