Laser scar remodelling aftercare

Laser scar remodelling is a safe and effective treatment for softening, flattening and fading overgrown and discoloured scars following injuries or surgical procedures. Because it works by damaging collagen tissue in the skin, it can sometimes cause bleeding and redness. These usually settle very quickly.

What to expect after treatment

Immediately after the treatment, there may be bleeding from very small spots and redness.

Over the next 1-2 days, pinpoint-sized scabs may develop over the top of the scar. These separate from the wound over the next 1-2 days, leaving a pink mark. This will gradually fade over the following weeks, together with any bruising.

By 4-6 weeks after your initial treatment, it will be possible for your doctor to examine the scar to decide if further treatment is required.

How to manage the scar

Day 1

Keep the wound covered and dry. It’s unlikely that you will need pain relief, but paracetamol, naproxen or ibuprofen should be sufficient.

If the area becomes red, sore or sensitive to touch, apply a cool compress or ice pack (a bag of frozen vegetables covered in clean plastic wrap works well if you don’t have an ice pack). If redness and sensitivity continue for more than 12 hours, please contact the clinic.

Days 2-3

If there is a dressing over the wound, leave it there and keep the wound dry for two days. Avoid heavy exercise and sweating for two days following treatment.

If the scar was on your face and you have a history of cold sores, your doctor may have prescribed anti-viral medication such as famciclovir. You may need to continue taking it for 3 days after your procedure.

4-6 weeks

After removing the dressing, clean the area daily using a gentle cleanser such as Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Daily Facial Cleanser or CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser.

Don’t pick at or peel crusts over the wound. This increases the risk of further scarring.

Apply a tiny amount of Epicyn gel in a thin film to cover the wound twice daily. After it’s dried, you can apply sunscreen or make-up.

For best results, we recommend you continue Epicyn twice daily for up to three months after your procedure.

Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area for at least two weeks after treatment. When going outside, wear clothing that covers the wound or a broad-brimmed hat. If you can’t cover the wound with clothing, use a Band-Aid or SPF 50 sunscreen.

Don’t use any topical products that will irritate the wound. This includes:

• AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C, tretinoin, Retin-A or other retinoids or other cosmeceuticals.
• Antiseptics such as iodine, Savlon, Dettol or tea tree oil. These products can be toxic to new skin cells.
• Vitamin E cream. Vitamin E commonly causes irritation to healing skin.
• Fragrances, essential oils, toners and alcohol-based products.
• Soaps.

Your next appointment

Return to the clinic after six weeks. Your doctor will examine the scar to assess the treatment results and decide what further treatment is required.

Usually, 4-6 sessions of treatment are necessary for maximum effect.