Pre- & Post-Treatment Instructions

Laser Hair Removal

Prior to Treatment 
• Do not pluck, wax, use a depilatory or undergo electrolysis in the areas you wish to have treated for 4 weeks prior to
  laser hair removal.
• Do not tan the areas to be treated for 4 weeks prior to treatment.
• Avoid using self-tanning products for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
• Shave prior to treatment

After Treatment 
• Some redness and swelling in the area is normal after treatment and may feel similar to a sunburn. This should resolve within several hours to several days after treatment.
• Avoid irritants (glycolics, retinoids, etc.) for seven days after treatment.
• Apply sunblock daily
• Avoid exercising for 24 hours

IPL

Prior to Treatment 
• Avoid aspirin and aspirin-containing products for three days prior to procedure. This will help to minimize possible bruising.
• Discontinue use of Tetracycline, Retin A/Renova (including Firm & Fade cream) three days prior to all treatments.
• Sun protection with sunblock, protective clothing and sunglasses are essential prior to, in between, and following your treatments. If you are currently tan or using self-tanning products, you will need to schedule your treatment when the tan fades.
• Apply topical cream 30 minutes prior to treatment.

After Treatment 
• Quick warm (NOT HOT) showers are recommended. If areas treated are other than the facial area, hot baths are not advised for 24 hours.
• Aerobic exercise, use of saunas and hot tubs should also be avoided for 24 hours.
• If the skin is broken or a blister appears, apply an antibiotic ointment and notify us. The area should be kept lubricated to prevent crusting or scabbing of tissue.
• A cold compress, aloe vera, or any other cooling preparation may be used to ease temporary discomfort.
• Prolonged sun exposure is to be avoided for 4 weeks before and after treatment. A total sunblock, not a sunscreen, should be applied. Sun exposure may cause certain complications, such as blistering and/or hyperpigmentation.
• No waxing to the treated areas for one month after treatment.
• Makeup can be applied as long as the skin is not broken. Makeup can also serve to protect the skin from sun exposure.

Chemical Peels

Prior to Treatment 
• Stop all skin drying and exfoliating agents 5-7 days prior to treatment (except for Vi peel).  This includes retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, etc.  If you are not sure about a product, please call.
• No waxing for at least 7 days prior to treatment.

You are not a candidate for a chemical peel if: 
• ŸHerpes (cold sores) are present
• You have an immunosuppressive disease or condition
• You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or intend to get pregnant in the next 30 day
• You have any history of allergy to the ingredients

After Treatment Instructions
Post-peel instructions will vary depending on the type of peel that was administered.  Your clinician will advise you on post-peel care at the time of your treatment.  You can expect to take 2-3 days off from exercise; you must avoid heat and sweat for the first few days.

SilkPeel Dermalinfusion

Prior to Treatment 
• Discontinue Retin-A one week prior to treatment.
• Discontinue retinol, benzoyl peroxide, AHA/BHA 3 days prior to treatment.
• If you are prone to getting cold sores, begin taking medication for cold sores the day of treatment.

After Treatment 
• Limit exercise for 24 hours.
• Avoid Retin-A, AHA/BHA products, scrubs, facial waxing, and any other exfoliating products or procedures for 3 days.
• Use of cold compresses can provide relief from the temporary “windburn” sensation.
• Normal use of makeup is acceptable.
• Use sunscreen every day, whether sun is present or not.
• Wash face with warm water, not hot.

*Additional notes: Acne may temporarily look worse after first treatment, but will improve after additional treatments.

Dermal Filler

Prior to Treatment 
• Arrive 30 minutes prior to appointment time if you would like to apply topical numbing cream in the office.
• ARRIVE WITH NO MAKEUP, OR WASH OFF ANY MAKEUP UPON ARRIVING.
• Do not have any dental procedures for 2 weeks.
• If you have a history of cold sores please let us know and we will provide Acyclovir that you may begin taking the day of treatment.
• Avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen (and other NSAIDS), high dose Vitamin D or E, fish oils, and turmeric for one week prior to minimize risk of bruising.
• Begin Arnica Montana tablets 3 days leading up to treatment to decrease bruising (optional).
• No alcohol for 24 hours
• If you develop a cold sore, blemish, rash, or are sick prior to your appointment, please call the office as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment.
• If you have a special event coming up, have  your treatment at least 2 weeks before the event.

After Treatment 
Treatment Considerations:  The most commonly reported side effects are temporary injection site redness, pain/tenderness, firmness, lumps/bumps, and bruising.  Exposure of the treated area to excessive sun and extreme cold weather should be minimized until any initial swelling and redness have resolved.  After a treatment with dermal fillers, patients should wait at least 2 weeks before having any laser treatments, chemical peels, or any other skin procedures, as there is a possible risk of an inflammatory reaction at the treatment site.  Patients who are taking Aspirin or any NSAIDS may experience increased bruising or bleeding at the injection site.
• No exercise for 24 hours
• No dental procedures for 2 weeks
• No alcohol for 24 hours
• No topical applications for 12 hours (i.e. makeup, lipstick, sunscreen)
• No extended exposure to sun or heat (avoid sunbathing and jacuzzi)
• DO apply cold compresses to injection site to reduce possible bruising
• May take or apply Arnica Montana (pills/cream) or Vitamin K cream; both can be found at local health food stores or pharmacy
• No massages for 1 week

BOTOX®

Prior to Treatment 
• No aspirin or ibuprofen 1 week prior to injections (Tylenol is okay)
• No alcohol for 24 hours
• No high-dose fish oils or Vitamin D for 1 week

After Treatment 
• Refrain from vigorous exercise for the remainder of the day
• Do not lie down for 3-4 hours following treatment
• Do not massage or manipulate the treated area for one week
• You may wash your face normally
• Do not ice the area
• No heavy lifting for 12 hours
• Some patients develop a headache, which can be treated with Tylenol
• Mild bruising or swelling may occur at the site but will resolve within a few days
• In rare cases, the side effects of Botox can include the eyebrow or upper eyelid to droop, but this condition is temporary and corrects itself in 2-3 weeks
• Takes 3 days until onset of action, 7-10 days to reach optimal results
• Benefits last an average of 3-4 months