Sciton ProFractional^TM Laser
(Erbium:YAG Fractional Resurfacing by Sciton)

Patient response can vary after a ProFractional treatment.

Immediately after treatment, the desired response includes:

• Erythema (redness)
• Mild to moderate edema (swelling)
• Pinpoint oozing within minutes after completion

The degree of redness, oozing, and healing time increases with:

• Treatment depth
• Percentage of coverage
• Individual skin response

• Redness: 24 hours to 3 days (longer with deeper settings)
• Oozing: Up to 24 hours
• Swelling: Most noticeable during the first 24 hours
• Peeling/Flaking: Begins within 24 – 48 hours
• Texture improvement: Gradual over weeks
• Collagen remodeling: Continues for several months

While most patients experience 5 – 7 days of downtime, some individuals may have a prolonged recovery lasting up to 4 weeks, depending on treatment depth and skin response.

For this reason:

• Plan important social events in advance.
• Allow yourself a full month for complete recovery, especially for deeper resurfacing.

Makeup may be applied on Day 6 – 7, provided:

• Skin has re-epithelialized
• There are no signs or symptoms of infection

ProFractional treatments are typically performed in a series, spaced 4 – 6 weeks apart.

To optimize healing and minimize complications:

5 – 7 Days Before Treatment

Discontinue the following (if medically appropriate and approved by your provider):

• NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aspirin, etc.)
• Magnesium
• Vitamin D
• Fish oil
• Flaxseed oil

This helps minimize:

• Bruising
• Petechiae
• Excess bleeding

Inform your provider about all medications and supplements, especially:

• Antibiotics
• Photosensitizing medications
• Prescription blood-thinning agents
• Biological infusions or injections
• Steroids
• Hormone therapy

If you have a history of cold sores, begin antiviral medication as prescribed.

For pain control:

• Take 2 tablets of Extra Strength Tylenol (1000 mg total) 1 hour prior to your procedure.

For swelling prevention:

• Take 1 tablet of a non-drowsy antihistamine 2–3 hours before treatment.

If you are planning to treat areas around the eyes:

• Bring a driver with you, or
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

Temporary swelling, tearing, light sensitivity, or blurred vision may make driving unsafe.

• Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning.
• Discontinue retinoids, exfoliating acids, and resurfacing products unless directed.
• Avoid waxing or aggressive procedures in the treatment area.

• Arrive with clean skin (no makeup, lotions, sunscreen).
• Eat normally and stay well hydrated.

First 24 – 48 Hours

Cooling & Comfort

• Use cold compresses as needed (most helpful in first 12 hours).
• Sleep upright the first night to minimize swelling.
• Use Extra Strength Tylenol if needed (avoid NSAIDs unless directed).

Cleansing

Begin the morning after treatment:

• Cleanse twice daily with lukewarm water and gentle cleanser (e.g., Cetaphil).
• Use hands only.
• Pat dry — do not rub.

Occlusive Barrier

• Apply Aquaphor or prescribed occlusive barrier.
• Keep treated areas fully covered.
• Do not allow skin to dry out.
• Typically required for 24 – 48 hours.

Peeling & Flaking

• Peeling usually begins within 24 – 48 hours.
• Allow skin to shed naturally.

DO NOT PICK, RUB, OR FORCE OFF PEELING SKIN.

This may cause:

• Scarring
• Infection
• Hyperpigmentation

Activity Restrictions

• Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until healed.
• Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs.
• When showering, wash hair leaning backward to avoid shampoo contact with treated areas.

Sun protection is critical for 2 months post-treatment.

• Avoid direct sun exposure.
• Once healed, wear broad-spectrum SPF daily.
• If prone to diffuse pigmentation or melasma:
  
  • Use tinted sunscreen at all times.
  • Especially important when boating, at the pool, or at the beach.

Do NOT use self-tanners on treated areas.

Self-tanners may trigger pigment irregularities and cause pigmentation recurrence.

We strongly advise scheduling a follow-up appointment 1 – 2 weeks after treatment to:

• Evaluate healing
• Monitor pigmentation response
• Adjust skincare regimen
• Plan the next session

Some swelling is normal. However, call immediately if you notice:

• Excessive swelling
• Drainage that looks like pus
• Increasing warmth in treated area
• Fever of 101.5°F or higher
• Severe or worsening pain
• Spreading redness

Early evaluation prevents complications.

Proper preparation and post-care are essential for safe healing and optimal results. If you have any concerns during your recovery, contact the clinic immediately.