PRE-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

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• Discontinue skin irritants 1 week prior (retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, glycolics) and avoid sun exposure/tanning. No accutane within 1 year.

• Arrive with clean skin void of lotion, oil, makeup or self tanning agents.

• Please let us know if you are prone to cold sores so that prophylactic medications can be given.

• Fill all medications at the pharmacy, prepare cool compresses (frozen peas in small Ziploc bags), and vinegar soak solution

• Arrive without contact lenses and bring glasses in the event that we place ocular shields for treatment close to the eye.

• Bring a large hat to protect from the sun.

• Coordinate a driver if you plan to take medication for pain/anxiety

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IMMEDIATELY POST-PROCEDURE

• Some discomfort/heat/throbbing or headache is normal for the first few hours or days. The most significant discomfort is the first 30-60 minutes post treatment! Swelling is expected, is worse in the morning and improves as you sit up or walk around.

• Rest and sleep with your head raised on 2 to 3 pillows for the first few days.

• Apply cool compresses to the area on top of a thin towel or fabric, 15-20 min every hour to soothe discomfort if needed

• For full face or other large treatment areas: Apply vinegar soaks 3 times a day for 15 minutes until you begin to peel.

• Take medications as instructed.

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*If you have excessive bleeding or pain, call the office at 919-867-4455

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POST-TREATMENT EXPECTATIONS & INSTRUCTIONS:

• AVOID: high heat, sun, blood thinners/alcohol, touching the skin

• Treatment side effects may include: discomfort, excessive skin redness, swelling, changes in skin texture, change of pigmentation (hyper- or hypo-pigmentation), and less likely, scarring, and infection.

• You may begin cleansing and skincare the next day.

• Avoid picking, peeling, scrubbing or exfoliating! This can cause scarring.

• Avoid exercise initially. You may resume light exercise after 5-7 days and intense exercise after 10 days.

• Avoid dusty environments, dirt, or chemical contact such as hairspray to skin.

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POST PROCEDURE SKIN CARE INSTRUCTIONS:​

• You may wash your face the day after the procedure. Remember to treat the skin gently, avoid scrubbing/exfoliating, trauma or high heat to the treated area.

• SPF is required daily to protect the skin from sun damage, pigmentation and scarring

• We recommend avoiding makeup if your skin is dry or peeling.  Once healed, we recommend light, breathable makeup.

• You may resume retinols after 2 weeks of fully healed skin.

• Avoid spray tanning/sun tanning for about  6 weeks post-procedure