Your skin is the first line of defense against illness or infection, making it especially important to keep it healthy. Dermatologists specialize in skin health, treating a vast array of conditions that can affect your skin and offering treatments to keep it in top form. When you schedule a consultation at a skincare clinic, you are taking the first step toward giving your skin the TLC it deserves. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare ensures your first visit will be productive and helpful.

Your dermatologist will likely ask you many questions at your first appointment, to get an accurate picture of your specific needs and goals. To help the process, it is a good idea to bring the following information to your consultation:

• Insurance card (if insurance covers the procedure you need)
• Specific concerns you have about your skin
• Medications you currently take
• Diagnosed conditions (both skin conditions and other medical conditions)
• Pictures of any concerning skin lesions when you were younger for reference
• Skin care products you have questions about

Your dermatologist will help make you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible throughout the entire consultation, giving you the opportunity to discuss any concerns or expectations you may have. Your dermatologist will also discuss the skin care procedures available for any skin conditions you may struggle with, such as:

• Acne
• Birthmarks
• Melasma
• Scars

You will also have the opportunity to talk about cosmetic concerns you might have, since dermatologists often provide treatments to target these issues as well. Common aesthetic concerns dermatologists address include:

• Facial Lines and Wrinkles
• Age Spots/Brown Spots
• Red Spots/Blood Vessels
• Sagging Skin

Experienced, board-certified dermatologists will offer a variety of treatment options that allow them to customize your procedure to your precise needs for the best possible results. Some popular treatment options include:

• Botox and Wrinkle Smoothers
• Filler Injections
• Skin Tightening
• Laser Treatments

Once you and your dermatologist have created a customized treatment plan, preparation before procedures will help to ensure every appointment is safe and successful. Your dermatologist will provide you with a list of pre-treatment instructions that might include avoiding certain medications or supplements that could increase your risk for bleeding and bruising during and after your treatment.

You may also need to stop using certain skincare products to ensure your skin is not too sensitive to undergo the treatment you choose. For example, your dermatologist might recommend stopping products that contain retinol to prevent a reaction after your procedure. You may also be asked to avoid sun exposure, since many treatments do not work well on tanned skin.

Your dermatologist will give you a set of post-treatment instructions that might include the following steps:

1. Treat your skin gently. Avoid harsh chemicals, waxes, peels, or other laser treatments at least two weeks after your appointment. Gently wash your skin using a mild cleanser and apply any topical products recommended by your dermatologist.
2. Keep pores clear to prevent breakouts. Avoid using makeup or topical creams that could clog the pores, causing irritation, breakouts, and damage to the skin.
3. Avoid sun exposure to prevent hyperpigmentation and other damage. Stay out of the sun for at least seven days after treatment.
4. Stay out of the heat. It’s also a good idea to avoid hot showers, tubs, heating pads, and saunas, as these can increase your risk for skin irritation. On the other hand, ice and cool compresses can soothe skin after treatments.

The Laser & Skin Surgery Center of Pennsylvania offers state-of-the-art treatments, experience, and expertise in its 8,000+ square foot treatment facility. Using concepts from science and art, our board-certified dermatologists are there to help you achieve the best version of yourself, no matter what your cosmetic goals might be. As leaders in lasers and cosmetic dermatology, 100% of treatments are performed by a board-certified dermatologist. Our team uses the most advanced methods in research, diagnosis, and treatments of skin conditions.

Are you ready to schedule your skincare consultation at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of Pennsylvania? Contact our office today to make your appointment.