PRE-TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
To ensure optimal results and minimize risks:
1. Avoid sun exposure, sunbeds, and tanning products for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
2. Discontinue Retinol, Retin-A, glycolic/salicylic acids, benzoyl peroxide, Vitamin C, and similar irritants 2 weeks before and after.
3. Avoid other skin treatments (chemical peels, lasers, etc.) on the area for 2–4 weeks prior.
4. Roaccutane should be stopped at least 3–6 months prior, depending on dosage.
5. If you have a history of cold sores, notify your Practitioner – antiviral medication may be required.
6. Do not wear makeup on the treatment area on the day of your procedure.
7. Do not book a treatment if pregnant or possibly pregnant.
8. Inform your Practitioner of any recent changes in medications or health status.
NORMAL SKIN REACTIONS DURING / AFTER TREATMENT
1. Most treatments result in some flushing or erythema that may last 1 – 24 hours or longer in some treatments for example resurfacing treatments.
2. Some treatments may lead to stinging, itching, burning, mild pain, tightness, peeling and scabbing of the superficial layers of the skin. These sensations will gradually diminish over the course of the week post treatment as the skin returns to its normal appearance. However, some patients may react differently. For example, in severe cases the skin may turn very red, blister, swell and later scab and crust. The skin may be uncomfortable and look like a very bad sunburn. The peeling usually lasts about 3 to 7 days, although it may last longer.
3. Post skin peel tightness of the skin may occur for the first 24 – 48 hours.
4. Sun damage spots will turn significantly darker after treating prior to fading. This can last up to 10 days.
5. If swelling occurs post treatment, use cold compresses for 24 – 48 hours intermittently as needed.
6. There is a risk (although small) of developing a temporary or permanent pigment (colour) change in the skin with laser treatments and skin peels.
7. There is a small incidence of the reactivation of “cold sores” (herpes infection) in patients with a prior history of herpes, so please inform your practitioner if you have had a previous infection.
8. There is a rare incidence of scarring and infection post treatment. Please inform us of any concerns so that we can advise you.
POST-TREATMENT CARE
To support healing and optimize results:
1. Avoid sun exposure for 48 hours post-treatment.
2. Apply SPF 50+ daily starting immediately after treatment. Apply SPF at least 20 minutes before sun exposure.
3. It is important to wear SPF50+ sun block on a daily basis for at least 2 weeks following treatment.
4. Do not pick, peel, or scratch treated skin – this will cause scarring.
5. Avoid touching or washing your face for at least 6 hours post-procedure.
6. Rinse the treated area with water and pat dry for 1st day after treatment. Do not scrub or exfoliate. Use cool or tepid water.
7. Avoid shaving, waxing, tweezing, depilatories for 3–5 days on the treated area.
8. Avoid active skincare ingredients (e.g. retinoids, acids, Vitamin C) for one week.
9. Use non-irritating moisturizers frequently and gentle cleanser (from day-2 post-procedure).
10. Avoid excessive heat (saunas, intense exercise, hot showers/baths) for 48 hours.
11. Make-up may be used 24 hours post-treatment if skin is not inflamed. This does depend on which treatment you are undergoing.
12. For optimal outcomes, a series of treatments and recommended skincare are advised.
13. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
