Fractional Laser

Cutera Pearl

In our Westlake office, the Pearl Fractional laser is an ablative resurfacing procedure that combines Cutera’s Xeo Pearl Resurfacing and Pearl Fractional laser into one convenient, powerful skin rejuvenating procedure. The Pearl Resurfacing portion directs laser energy to the treatment area in a steady, focused stream while the Pearl Fractional portion delivers laser energy to the deep layers of the skin in a series of columns. These columns allow for the treatment of a large area, while still leaving much of the skin unaffected by the laser energy. Some of this laser energy is absorbed by the surface of the skin as heat, while the rest of it passes through the uppermost layer of the skin and is absorbed by its deeper dermal tissues. This heat stimulates the body’s natural healing process, triggering the growth of newer, healthier skin tissues and additional collagen proteins.

The Pearl Fractional laser can address a wide range of skin concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture, skin laxity, acne scars and brown spots.

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  • The procedure takes about 30 minutes – a topical numbing agent will be applied for 45-60 minutes prior to treatment and depending on treatment area
  • To confirm all raised or pigmented lesions are benign, it is advised to seek care/have a written note from a Dermatologist before treatment
  • You will experience erythema (redness) and swelling in the treated area as well as feeling warm which intensifies in the first 12 - 24 hours; anticipate 3-5 days of healing time
  • A thin layer of Aquaphor will be applied to treated area after procedure
  • Arrive to your appointment with clean skin, makeup and lotion free
  • No hairspray, earrings or jewelry around the neck
  • Histamine levels increase after tissue injury leading to inflammation – if you are prone to allergic reactions, start an anti-histamine 2 days before the procedure
  • History of herpes or cold sores may require an anti-viral prescription prior to treatment
  • Avoid alcohol a few nights prior to minimize chances of bruising and enhance the healing process
  • Avoid NSAIDS (Aspirin, Motrin, Aleve, Ibuprofen) if possible a few days beforehand
  • Wear loose fitting clothes that button or zip in the front rather than a pullover top
  • It is normal for skin to feel “sunburned”, tight and/or be red for up to 7 days
  • Wash your hands prior to touching your face in order to prevent infection
  • Do not pick, rub, scrub or irritate your skin during the healing phase
  • Do not use ANY products other than those discussed with your provider
  • Do not expose the treated area to the sun, even on cloudy days
  • To speed up healing: 
  • Re-apply Aquaphor as frequently as needed followed by spraying face with cold spring water to maintain a continuous layer on your skin
  • Soak the treated area with a plain white vinegar solution 4-8 times each day – the solution consists of 1 teaspoon of plain white vinegar to 2 cups of water – dip a clean, soft wash cloth into the solution and place wet cloth against your skin gently pressing to ensure the vinegar solution wets the skin. Rinse and repeat for 10-15 minutes
  • Most of the Aquaphor should come off (do NOT rub) – apply a layer of Aquaphor to the treated area immediately post soaking
  • Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours post procedure
  • Elevate head while sleeping using 2-3 pillows to avoid swelling which resolves in 2-3 days
  • Skin starts to slough on day 3 or 4 – do NOT pick and allow the skin to slough off naturally
  • You may shower or bathe at any time post treatment (although better to wait until the next day). Avoid using hot water, pat dry gently with a clean towel. Do not let shampoo or hair products get on your face. Do a vinegar soak followed by Aquaphor post shower
  • No hot tubs, jacuzzis, or swimming pools until redness is completely gone
  • No strenuous activity until all redness is gone
  • On average, the recovery process takes up to 5 days on the face, and 7 days for the neck down
  • Makeup may be worn after the majority of treated skin has sloughed (usually day 4 or 5)
  • For a week after the sloughing is complete, ONLY use moisturizer recommended by your provider and apply sunscreen of SPF 20 or greater when your skin is ready
  • Call the office if you’re experiencing intense pain, drainage, severe redness or fever, increased itching, the appearance of a cold sore, blister or a tingling sensation
  • Appointments should be scheduled in intervals of 4 or more weeks apart depending on the settings/per provider recommendation