Fractional Ablative Laser Post-Care Guide
Comprehensive post-care instructions from Dr. Kat Kesty for your Fractional Ablative Laser treatment in St. Petersburg, FL
Your Journey to Radiant Skin Begins Here
Welcome to St. Petersburg Skin and Laser, where Double Board Certified Dermatologist and Fellowship Trained Laser Surgeon Dr. Kat Kesty delivers stunning results with Fractional Ablative Laser treatments. This advanced Laser Resurfacing procedure reduces wrinkles, enhances skin texture, and rejuvenates your complexion with minimal downtime.
In this comprehensive guide, Dr. Kat Kesty shares expert post-care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting, radiant results. Whether you're basking in Florida's sunshine or seeking top-tier Dermatology care in the Tampa Bay area, these tips will help you maximize your Laser experience.
Treatment Day Preparation
Numbing and Comfort Options
On the day of your Laser Resurfacing at our St. Petersburg clinic, we'll apply a potent topical anesthetic to numb the treatment area for about an hour. Use this time to relax—bring a book, tablet, or anything to keep you entertained while the numbing cream works its magic.
ProNox Available
For added comfort, we offer ProNox, a safe blend of oxygen and nitrous oxide you can inhale during the procedure. It quickly eases anxiety and discomfort, wears off fast, and allows you to drive home just 10 minutes later.
Enhancing Your Results with PRP
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Post-treatment, we apply platelet-rich plasma (PRP), derived from your own blood, to supercharge healing. Packed with growth factors, PRP reduces inflammation, speeds recovery, and optimizes your Fractional Ablative Laser results.
Dr. Kat Kesty strongly recommends PRP for all Laser Resurfacing patients to ensure the best outcome, especially in Florida's sunny climate.
PRP Benefits:
- Reduces inflammation and swelling
- Accelerates healing process
- Optimizes treatment results
- 100% natural from your own blood
Essential Recovery Products
Dr. Kesty's Post-Laser Kit
To support your skin's healing, Dr. Kat Kesty's custom-formulated Post-Laser Kit is a must-have. This specially designed set includes a gentle cleanser, a soothing post-Laser moisturizer, and a mild SPF, all tailored for Laser recovery.
Gentle Cleanser
Specially formulated for sensitive, healing skin
Recovery Moisturizer
Soothes and hydrates during healing
Gentle SPF
Essential protection for Florida's intense sun
Available for purchase at our St. Petersburg office - ask your medical assistant for pricing
Your Recovery Timeline
Immediately After Treatment
After your Fractional Ablative Laser session, expect some redness and swelling, similar to a mild sunburn, which typically improves within hours. If the area around your eyes was treated, temporary swelling may cause them to close—this is normal and resolves within days.
Normal Healing Signs
Pinpoint bleeding or yellowish, crusty oozing is your body's natural protective layer. Avoid picking or scratching to prevent scarring.
Days 1-4: Initial Healing
- • Swelling subsides (may last up to a week)
- • Skin feels rough, like sandpaper
- • Redness begins to fade
- • New skin starts forming (2-6 days)
Weeks 1-2: Continued Recovery
- • Pink or red tones may linger
- • Skin texture continues improving
- • Gradual return to normal routine
- • Results become more visible
Daily Care Instructions
Cleansing Routine
Gently wash your face twice daily with lukewarm water and your fingertips—no washcloths or abrasive tools. Pat dry, then immediately apply a generous layer of moisturizer or Vaseline to keep your skin hydrated.
Use ONLY recommended products for the first week
Antiviral Medication
Dr. Kat Kesty will prescribe valacyclovir (Valtrex) or another antiviral to take for seven days post-procedure. This is standard care, as over 90% of people have been exposed to the herpes virus, and Lasers can trigger reactivation.
Managing Discomfort
- Use cold compresses with clean gauze soaked in ice water
- Extra Strength Tylenol for discomfort
- 1% hydrocortisone cream for itching (thin layer)
- Benadryl for persistent itching
Sun Protection
Apply moisturizer 5–10 times daily. When outdoors, use mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Dr. Kat Kesty recommends our Post-Laser Kit sunscreen, designed for sensitive, healing skin.
When to Contact Our St. Petersburg Clinic
Contact Us Immediately If:
- A fever of 100.4°F or higher, or chills
- Increasing redness, swelling, or pain
- Severe blistering or rash
- A cold sore or suspected outbreak
- Anything unusual or concerning
Our team, led by Double Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Kat Kesty, is here to support your journey.
Call 727-474-9399Long-Term Results & Maintenance
Maximizing Your Investment
4 Weeks Post-Treatment
After about 4 weeks, when your skin is ready, gradually reintroduce your skincare routine. Retinols or retinoids are key to maintaining your Fractional Ablative Laser results.
Not sure when to start? Ask Dr. Kat Kesty at your follow-up appointment at our St. Petersburg clinic.
Ongoing Care
- Daily mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide
- Regular retinol/retinoid use
- Follow-up treatments as recommended
- Annual dermatology check-ups
Questions About Your Recovery?
By following these expert post-care instructions, you'll enjoy a seamless recovery and stunning, long-lasting results from your Fractional Ablative Laser treatment. Thank you for trusting St. Petersburg Skin and Laser and Fellowship Trained Laser Surgeon Dr. Kesty with your Dermatology care.
Ready to Glow in St. Petersburg, FL?
Contact us today with any questions or to schedule your consultation—we're excited to help you shine!