How should patients prepare their skin before a laser treatment?

Patients should prepare their skin before a laser treatment by avoiding certain medications and heavy skin products. This preparation is crucial to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Certain medications, particularly those that can cause photosensitivity, should be discontinued prior to the procedure. These may include some antibiotics or topical retinoids that increase sensitivity to light and can lead to adverse reactions during laser treatment. Heavy skin products like thick creams or oils can create a barrier on the skin, which may interfere with the laser's ability to penetrate effectively, thus compromising the results.

In contrast, applying heavy skin products or exposing the skin to the sun can increase the risk of complications, such as burns or pigmentation changes. Simply moisturizing does not adequately address the need to avoid potential irritants or sensitizers. Therefore, properly preparing the skin by steering clear of specific medications and heavy products is essential for optimal treatment outcomes and patient safety.