The consultation before a laser session
Every laser session must begin with a medical consultation. This stage is crucial. It allows the indication to be assessed, the skin quality to be examined and the absence of contraindications to be confirmed.
The doctor assesses the skin phototype, its thickness, any active lesions and the medical history. Particular attention is paid to recent sun exposure, the use of photosensitising treatments and healing disorders. This assessment determines the choice of laser technology and the device settings.
The consultation also allows the expected results, the number of sessions needed and possible after-effects to be explained clearly to the patient. Laser treatment is a powerful tool, but its effectiveness depends on an appropriate indication and realistic goals.
Preparing the skin on the day of the session
On the day of the laser session, the skin should ideally be clean and free from make-up, and the application of irritating products should be stopped one week beforehand. Depending on the planned treatment, an anaesthetic cream may be applied approximately one hour before the procedure to improve comfort.
Before starting, Dr Romano carefully cleans the area to be treated. The patient and doctor then put on specific protective eyewear. This protection is essential, as the light energy emitted by the laser can be dangerous to the eyes.
Setting up the device is a key stage. The settings are tailored to the skin phototype, indication, anatomical area and skin density. In some cases, a test pulse may be delivered to observe the skin's immediate reaction.
What happens during the laser session
The laser session itself is generally brief. Its duration depends on the size of the treated area and the technology used. It can range from a few minutes to half an hour.
Dr Romano applies the laser handpiece to the skin and delivers light pulses methodically and evenly. Precise technique is essential to ensure uniform energy distribution and avoid overtreatment.
The sensation during the session varies according to the type of laser. It usually feels like warmth or tingling. Some patients describe a sensation similar to a light snapping against the skin. Modern devices are often equipped with cooling systems designed to reduce discomfort.
With fractional or ablative lasers, the heat sensation can be more intense. However, it generally remains well tolerated when the indication has been appropriately established.
Immediate reactions after the session
At the end of the laser session, the skin frequently shows temporary redness. Slight swelling may also appear, particularly in areas where the skin is thin, such as around the eyes. These reactions are normal and reflect the biological stimulation induced by the treatment.
A feeling of warmth may persist for several hours. With treatment at relatively high settings, peeling occurs in the following days and reflects skin renewal.
Dr Romano always applies a soothing product and explains the measures to follow over the coming days.
Care after a laser session
The period after laser treatment is essential to ensure proper healing and limit the risk of complications. The treated skin shows temporary inflammation, making it temporarily more fragile and sensitive.
Applying sun protection is imperative. All exposure to ultraviolet radiation must be avoided until the redness and inflammation have completely resolved. Daily application of high-protection sunscreen (SPF 50+) is recommended, even without direct sun exposure.
Regular application of a moisturising and repairing product is also advised to help restore the skin barrier. Potentially irritating products (retinoids, exfoliating acids, fragrances, alcohol) should be discontinued for several days.
Normal activities can generally be resumed immediately after superficial treatment. However, deeper laser treatment can cause redness, swelling or peeling that requires a few days of recovery.
Laser safety
The safety of a laser session depends on the doctor's training, the quality of the equipment used and adherence to the indications.
A laser is a high-energy medical device. Inappropriate use can cause skin complications such as burns, pigmentation disorders or scars. However, when used by a trained professional after a thorough clinical assessment, it has an excellent tolerability profile.
Adverse effects are rare and usually temporary when an accurate diagnosis has been made and appropriate settings have been selected.
Conclusion : what happens during a laser session
A laser session follows a structured medical protocol. It includes a preliminary consultation, appropriate skin preparation, treatment performed with precise settings and personalised follow-up.
The procedure is generally brief and well tolerated. It is performed under strict safety conditions with equipment that meets medical standards.
During treatment, the patient may feel warmth or tingling, reflecting controlled thermal stimulation of the skin. A temporary inflammatory reaction (redness, slight swelling) is usual and forms part of the physiological skin repair process. In rejuvenation treatment, improvement is gradual and linked to stimulation of collagen production.
Understanding the different stages of a laser session helps patients approach this treatment with confidence. Success depends on an accurate diagnosis, the doctor's technical expertise and strict adherence to post-treatment recommendations.
