Pre & Post Precedure Instructions

Vampire Facial / microneedling

PRE-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • STOP Hydroquinone and Retin A 3 days prior to treatment.
  • If you suffer from cold sores/fever blisters – take Valtrex 3 days prior to treatment to prevent an outbreak.

TREATMENT Information:

  • Immediately after you will be red and flushed similar to sunburn.
    • Light Tx (Redness will resolve within 1-2 days)
    • Deep Tx (Redness will resolve within 2-3 days)
  • Swelling may be present when doing deeper treatments
  • Dryness and tightness with slight sloughing is normal

POST-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Wait 4 hours post treatment before washing your face.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications (such as Benadryl) may be taken before bed the evening after treatment.
  • Avoid hot sweaty exercise for 24-48hrs.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure and wear sunscreen daily starting the morning after treatment.
  • No shaving for men for a week after treatment.
  • Mineral makeup can be applied to skin 24hrs after treatment.
  • Avoid exfoliating face washes and products such as scrubs, Clarisonic, retinol, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Glycolic, Lactic, Malic Acid, Salicylic) No Enzyme Peels or Microdermabrasion for 10-14 days.
  • Lightening products (such as Lytera 2.0 or BrightAlive) may be worked into your skincare regime 5 days post treatment.
  • For excessive dryness you may use ZO Hydrating Cream.

Home Care - AM

  • Wash face with a gentle cleanser (such as Alastin’s Gentle Cleanser).
  • Apply recovery gel.
  • You may apply 1-2 pumps of Alastin Skin Nectar, if applicable.
  • Apply Sunblock (Minimum of 30 SPF, such as EltaMD Physical).

Home Care - PM

  • Wash face with a gentle cleanser (such as Alastin’s Gentle Cleanser).
  • Apply recovery gel.
  • Apply 1-2 pumps of Alastin Skin Nectar, if applicable.

Injectables

PRE-TREATMENT Recommendations:

  • Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink at least 64 oz of water & be sure to moisturize the injection areas prior to your visit.
  • Take 2000 mg of Vitamin C daily before your treatment. The earlier you start, the better!
  • Pre-treat with Arnica 3 days before your treatment by dissolving 5 pellets under your tongue 3 times a day. Arnica can be purchased at most health food stores, including Whole Foods.
  • Avoid Omega 3s, Turmeric, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba, Garlic & Aspirin for 7 days prior.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages for 4 days prior. including red wine

POST-TOXIN (Botox® or Dysport®) Recommendations:

  • Please avoid:
    • Massaging the area or applying pressure for 6 hours
    • Saunas & exercise for 48 hours
    • Keep your head above your heart for at least 4 hours after.
    • Remember- results can take up to 10-14 days to take full effect. All good things come to those who wait!
  • Some patients experience mild side effects such as a headache, which typically resolve within a few days. Post-injection bumps will dissipate within an hour.
  • If you experience:
    • Minor swelling: apply Arnica cream & take oral Arnica
    • Bruising: Take 200 mg of Bromelain

If you are experiencing severe side effects such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 911 immediately. For intense & painful swelling at the injection site call our office.

POST-DERMAL FILLERS (Juvederm, Restylane, & Sculptra) Recommendations:

  • Please avoid:
    • Dental visit in the past 2 weeks or coming up within 2 weeks.
    • Vaccinations in the past 2 weeks or coming up within 2 weeks.
    • Flights and travel within a week after treatment.
    • Facial surgeries/trauma within the last 8 weeks.
    • Active cold sore if treating the lip area.
    • Blood thinners taken within a week prior to treatment (blood thinners extend bruising severity & time)
    • Significant event (i.e. wedding, photo shoot) within two weeks after treatment as it takes approximately 2 weeks for any side effects and swelling to subside.

For Sculptra Only:

  • Don’t forget 5/5/5!!!
    • Massage treated areas for 5 minutes, 5 times per day, for 5 days.

Contact Us:

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Intense pain in the treated area
  • Excessive swelling that is increasing with time
  • Skin color changes other than bruising (where skin is white)
  • If you aren’t sure if what you are experiencing is normal – call us! We are happy to help!

Chemical Peels

Treatments to avoid one week before appointment

  • Electrolysis
  • Waxing
  • Depilatory Creams
  • Laser Hair Removal

Products to avoid three days before appointment

  • Any products containing retinol, alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), or benzoyl peroxide.
  • Any exfoliating products that may be drying or irritating.

Note: The use of the above products/treatments prior to your peel may increase skin sensitivity and cause a stronger reaction.

Variations in the amount of visible peeling

The degree of peeling may vary from no visible peeling, mild flaking to skin peeling in sheets depending on the individual’s skin type, skin condition and specific peel at the time of treatment. Reasons why some patients experience decreased visible peeling:

  • Receiving a chemical peel for the first time.
  • Thickened and severely damaged skin (increased visible peeling should develop with subsequent peels).
  • Having peels regularly with a short interval between peels.
  • Frequent use of retinol, AHA/BHA products or other peeling agents prior to the peel treatment.

Regardless of the degree of peeling, the skin is still sloughing off at an accelerated rate, which will result in the improvement of skin tone and texture, and diminishment of fine lines and pigmentation.

POST-CARE Instructions:

For best results AVOID the following:

  • Sun exposure.
  • “Helping” the skin to peel. NO pulling, rubbing, scrubbing or peeling the skin as this can cause scarring or hyperpigmentation.
  • Abrasive facial cleansers or facial scrubs for at least 10 days.
  • Any product containing Retin-A, Tretinoin, Renova, Differin (Adapalene), Tazorac, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA, glycolic acid, lactic acid), benzoyl peroxide or beta hydroxy acid (BHA, salicylic acid), mint, spearmint or spiced-based products.
  • Strenuous exercise for at least 2 days post procedure.

Day 1 evening routine

  • Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water.
  • Pat face dry.
  • Apply Hyaluronic Acid Or Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar as needed.
  • If you are experiencing any irritation or discomfort, apply a small amount of 1% or 2.5% hydrocortisone.

Day 2 routine

  • Skin may look and feel like a mild windburn; Avoid any direct sunlight.
  • Wear an all-natural sunblock with at least SPF 30 (such as Elta MD UV Physical SPF 41).
  • Reapply sunscreen 3 times daily.
  • It is okay to wear makeup today.
  • Follow the same evening routine as day 1.

Day 3-5 routine

  • Depending on your skin type, peeling may begin.
  • The treated area will be very sensitive to sun exposure — direct sun exposure should be limited.
  • Sunblock of at least SPF 30 should be reapplied every 2-3 hours.
  • You can apply a Hyaluronic Acid and/or Alastin Nectar to the skin as needed.
  • If you have melasma or any discolorations, use hydrocortisone 3 times daily until peeling has stopped.

Only use pure mineral foundation and powder post peel. Treat your skin very gently and let it peel on its own time. If anything looks unusual or feels painful then call the office immediately. Continue to protect your skin with sunscreen. You can resume your normal product regime after 10 days. Please keep in mind that not all skin types will physically flake or peel. This can be attributed to any number of reasons; the thickness of your skin, the type of peel, if you regularly exfoliate, etc. It is not necessary to peel in order to receive the benefits of a chemical exfoliation.

Agnes

PRE-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Avoid the following prior to the Agnes procedure
    • NSAIDS or blood thinners for 1 week
    • Chemical peels or light treatments for 4 weeks
    • Ablative lasers such as Halo Pro for 12 weeks
    • Retin A or retinols for 2 weeks
    • Sun exposure (natural or tanning bed) or sunless tanner for 2 weeks
  • Contraindications to Agnes:
    • Current active herpes outbreak or vascular lesions in the treatment area
    • Any patients with a pacemaker, defibrillator, or any implanted electrical or metal device
    • Patients with any metal that is not safe enough for an MRI located close to treatment area
    • Active cancer
    • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
    • Weakened immune systems or any active, uncontrolled autoimmune disease
    • Poorly controlled endocrine diseases such as diabetes
    • Blood coagulation disorders

POST-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Immediately after treatment, redness, dryness, bruising and/or swelling can occur. Use of a cold compress or ice pack to provide comfort. Apply ice packs 3-5 times a day for 3-5 minutes for 3-5 days.
  • Itching, redness, tenderness and/or numbness may be experienced during the healing phase and is completely normal.
  • DO NOT scratch the treated area.
  • Do not wash your face the night of treatment. Then you may use a gentle cleanser starting the next day.
  • You may return to your regular skin care products in 1 week after your treatment.
  • Keep skin hydrated with ZO Hydrating Cream or Alastin Skin Nectar, twice a day and apply SPF over 30 routinely.
  • Avoid places that may create infection such as gyms, hospitals, daycares and dirty water (lakes, rivers, swimming pools, etc.) for 7 days.
  • Do not sleep with your pets or have them lick/touch the treated area for 7 days.
  • You may use mineral powder makeup on day 2.
  • “Collagen balls” may form, especially under the eyes. If this occurs, gently massage them using moisturizer and your fingertips 3 times a day, starting in 1 week. They will resolve.
  • Infection is unusual; however, this may occur anytime the skin is compromised. Should redness, fluid collections, pain, other unexpected irritation in the skin occur, contact our office immediately to be seen. Do not try to treat yourself as that may make the situation worse.

QWO

PRE-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Avoid alcoholic drinks at least 24 hours prior to treatment (to help prevent bruising due to the blood thinning effects of alcohol).
  • Avoid anti-inflammatory and blood thinning medications for 2 weeks prior to treatment. Such medications include aspirin, NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naprosyn, Aleve), Vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba, St. John’s Wort, Coumadin/warfarin, Pletal, Aggrenox.
  • It is recommended that you speak to your physician before discontinuing any prescription blood thinner prior to doing so.
  • Schedule your injection at least 2 weeks prior to any special occasion/event because you will bruise.

POST-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • You will be sore for the next few hours to days post injection.
  • There will be significant bruising after each injection session.
  • The other most common side effects include areas of hardness, itching, redness, discoloration, swelling and warmth in the treatment area(s).
  • Schedule ZWave treatment every week between treatments.
  • Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hrs post injection.
  • Wear compression undergarments are over treated areas for 1 week post procedure.

Scarlet / Morpheus RF Microneedling

PRE-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Avoid the following prior to the RF Microneedling Procedure
    • NSAIDS or blood thinners for 1 week o Chemical peels for 4 weeks
    • Laser treatments for 4 weeks
    • Ablative lasers for 12 weeks
    • Retin A or retinols for 4 weeks
  • Contraindications to Scarlet:
    • Current active herpes outbreak in the treatment area
    • Any patients with a pacemaker, defibrillator, or any implanted electrical device
    • Active cancer
    • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
    • Weakened immune systems or any active, uncontrolled autoimmune disease
    • Poorly controlled endocrine diseases such as diabetes
    • Blood coagulation disorders

PRE-CARE Instructions:

  • Prepare the skin with facials and skin care products
  • Skin that is well conditioned and strong will recover quickly and allow for the maximum benefits

POST-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Immediately after treatment, redness, dryness, bruising and/or swelling can occur. Use of a cold compress or ice pack helps provide comfort. Apply clean ice packs 3-5 times a day for 3-5 minutes for 3-5 days, as needed.
  • Itching, redness, tenderness and/or numbness may be experienced during the healing phase and is completely normal. Oral Benadryl or other antihistamines may help itching (Benadryl may cause drowsiness). DO NOT scratch or rub the treated area as complications can occur.
  • Do not apply any products to your face for at least 6 hours post treatment.
  • Do not wash your face the night of treatment. You may use a gentle cleanser the next day.
  • You may return to your regular skin routine the morning after your treatment.
  • Keep skin hydrated with ZO Hydrating Cream or Alastin Skin Nectar twice a day, or as needed.
  • Avoid Retin A, glycolic or salicylic acids or hydroquinone for the next week.
  • Avoid direct sunlight.
  • Use SPF over 30 daily.
  • Avoid places that may create infection such as gyms, hospitals, daycares and dirty water (lakes, rivers, swimming pools, etc) for 3 days.
  • Do not sleep with your pets or have them lick/touch the treated area for 48 hours.
  • Do not apply makeup for 24 hours post treatment. Ensure brushes are clean prior to use.

IPL

POST-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Immediately after the treatments, you may apply an ice pack if your skin is hot or if you have any swelling.
  • It is normal for the treated area to feel like sunburn for a few hours. Avoid any trauma to the skin for up to 2-5 days, such as bathing with very hot water, strenuous exercise, or massage.
  • Avoid picking or scratching the treated skin to achieve your best results. If any crusting, apply moisturizing cream. Darker pigmented people may have more discomfort than lighter skin people and may require a moisturizer longer. Any moisturizer without acids or retinols is acceptable.
  • Follow instructions as specified by your practitioner.
  • Makeup may be used after the treatment.
  • You may shower after the treatment in tepid water.
  • The treated area may be washed gently with a gentle cleanser. Skin should be patted dry and NOT rubbed.
  • You may experience redness and bruising from five to fourteen days after the treatment.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure throughout the course of the treatment to reduce the chance of dark or light spots.
  • Always use sunscreen SPF 30 or higher for at least 2 weeks before and after each treatment when going outside.
  • It may take up to four weeks or longer to observe the maximal effectiveness of this treatment. Avoid tweezing, waxing, bleaching or chemical peels for 2 weeks before or 2 weeks after the treatment.
  • You will want to have one treatment every 4-6 weeks until the issue you are concerned with is corrected. Then you can be placed on maintenance treatments every 3-4 months to continue the effectiveness of the procedure.

Neogen Plasma Skin Rejuvenation

PRE-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Facials and medical grade skincare prepare the skin, allowing for quicker healing time and optimal results.
  • Avoid sun exposure and self-tanner for about a week before treatment.
  • Please cancel your appointment if you think you may be pregnant.
  • For patients with a history of cold sores – Start antiviral meds 3 days before your treatment. Please let us know if you need a prescription.
  • Thick facial hair (excluding eyebrows) should be shaved prior to treatment.

POST-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • NeoGen treatment has up to 7 days of social downtime. You may have red spotting that will change to brown and peel off over 7 days.
  • For the first 24 hours after your NeoGen treatment, your skin will be more absorptive so keep post care simple. Rinse with cool water and use a gentle cleanser. Treated skin must be covered with Aquaphor continuously for the first 24-36 hours. It is important that the old Aquaphor is removed daily and replaced with a fresh layer.
  • After 36 hours, Aquaphor may be replaced with ZO Hydrating Cream or Cicalfate.

Call our office and speak to your provider for any questions or concerns.

Cool Peel cO2

What can I expect after Cool Peel CO2 treatment?

Your CoolPeel treatment will deliver a fractional ablative treatment with minimal social downtime. You should expect to have red skin as if you have had a sunburn for a couple of days. Your skin may feel dry and scaly as it heals, it is important to keep it hydrated. Proper pre and post-care is an important part of the treatment and will help to ensure the best possible results.

Pre-treatment:

  • Avoid sun exposure for 4-6 weeks before and do not apply self-tanner for at least one week prior to treatment.
  • Discontinue all products containing Retinol, Glycolic, Alpha/Beta Hydroxy Acids, and exfoliants for one week prior to treatment.
  • Patients should be off Accutane for a minimum of 6 months prior to treatment.
  • Please arrive at your appointment with clean skin.
  • If you have a history of cold sores, start antiviral medication 1 day before treatment and continue as directed.
  • Men should have a cleanly shaven face the night before or the morning of the procedure - without visible stubble.

Post Treatment:

  • A sunburn sensation may linger for 12-24 hours after the procedure is completed.
  • Keep a very thin layer of Aquaphor on as needed for up to 3 days post-procedure. Do not let the skin dry out.
  • Avoid makeup and sunscreen for a minimum of 48 hours post-procedure. After this time, mineral makeup and sunscreen are recommended.
  • Sleep with a clean pillowcase and head slightly elevated. Mild swelling may occur upon awakening for the first 48 hours post-treatment.
  • Avoid applying ‘active’ ingredients to the skin for 1 week- this includes Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA), Beta-Hydroxy Acid (BHA), Retinol, Vitamin C, and Alcohol-based toners.
  • Avoid direct sunlight for 48 hours after your treatment & wear 50 SPF sunscreen thereafter to protect the skin.
  • You may resume retinol products 7 days after your procedure.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours after your treatment.
  • Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms for 1-week post-procedure.

Coolsculpting

PRE-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Maintain normal hydration before your appointment.
  • Eat normally unless otherwise instructed.
  • Wear comfortable clothing.
  • Avoid anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners if approved by your physician.
  • Inform your provider of any recent surgeries, hernias, pregnancy, or medical conditions.
  • Avoid treating areas with broken or irritated skin.

TREATMENT Information:

  • You may feel intense cold, pulling, tugging, pinching, and pressure at the start of treatment.
  • The area typically becomes numb within several minutes.
  • Treatment areas may be massaged immediately after applicator removal.
  • Multiple cycles or applicators may be used depending on area treated.

POST-TREATMENT Instructions:

  • Temporary redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, tingling, cramping, itching, numbness, or firmness can occur.
  • Massage the area if instructed by your provider.
  • Resume normal activity unless otherwise directed.
  • Continue hydration and maintain healthy diet/exercise habits.
  • Results develop gradually over several weeks to months.
  • Follow-up treatments may be recommended.

Contact Us If You Experience:

  • Severe pain
  • Significant swelling
  • Worsening numbness
  • Skin discoloration or blistering
  • Any unexpected reaction or concern

Lutronic Ultra

What can I expect after Lutronic Ultra treatments?

Many patients will notice immediate results after their first treatment. The skin is softer and smoother, and the skin tone is more even. This visible improvement will continue after each additional session. Many patients will schedule several sessions spaced weeks apart in order to achieve optimum results. SkinBody may recommend regularly-scheduled sessions every few months to continually improve the skin and maintain the natural glow that is achieved with this service. Patients who have a specific goal, such as to greatly reduce the appearance of their freckles or to improve overall skin tone and texture, will be able to continue with treatments until their expectations have been met.

Lutronic Ultra Post-Treatment Instructions

  • Patients may feel a mild burning sensation for one to two hours following the treatment. An ice pack applied to the treated area can provide relief. The ice pack must be clean.
  • Keep the treatment area moisturized. After a day, gently wash and pat the skin dry for two days. Do not scrub the treated area. Moisturize daily. Usually, any crust will separate naturally within five to seven days after the treatment.
  • Please do not use cosmetics which contain active ingredients such as Retinol or AHA immediately after treatment.
  • Following the treatment, avoid sweating until primary healing has completed.
  • Avoid using skin care products containing acids or alcohol for at least one week after treatment.
  • Apply medical grade sunscreen daily with SPF of at least 30. Use a hat, an umbrella, or any other available protection against sunlight while spending time outdoors.
  • Please contact SkinBody with any questions or concerns.