Pre-Treatment
Instructions
Potenza RF Microneedling Pre-Treatment Instructions
Microneedling with Potenza can help to address the most common aesthetic concerns with the added benefit of advanced radiofrequency (RF) technology. The Potenza RF Microneedling System delivers thermal energy to multiple layers of skin tissue, causing tissue contraction. The energy/heat combined iwth micro injury also triggers the body to produce collagen and elastin, resulting in skin tightening through soft-tissue coagulation. The RF energy is delivered via small gold needles. In addition to the benefits seen with the micro-injury provided by the microneedles, RF delivers energy deep into dermis so it can produce faster, more dramatic results than regular microneedling.
THIS TREATMENT REQUIRES TOPICAL NUMBING – TEXT TO PICK THIS UP PRIOR TO YOUR APPOINTMENT (360)852-1672.
Contraindications: If you have any of these conditions or issues – this treatment is NOT for you.
- Clients with a pacemaker, or any metallic/electronic implanted devices.
- Clients who have previously had a gold-thread skin-rejuvenation treatment.
- Clients with keloid scar formation propensity.
- Clients with active, open or healing skin infections.
- Clients with allergy to gold.
- Clients who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Clients with unrealistic expectations – this is NOT plastic surgery, and results are seen over several months.
- Clients with moderate-severe Auto-immune disease, Diabetic complications, Herpes simplex virus, Epilepsy, HIV, or Dermatitis.
- Clients who have recieved fillers or neurotoxins (botox) should wait 2 weeks before recieving a Potenza treatment.
Keep hydrated by drinking water (at least eight cups daily) or hydrating fluids to improve treatments outcomes.
Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours in advance of treatment.
For 3 to 7 days prior to treatment, at the provider’s discretion, avoid therapies that may cause erythema (redness) or irritation, such as retinols or products containing isotretinoin, skin bleaching topicals, and any exfoliating acid preparations.
Avoid medications that alter the healing response or hemostasis for 3-7 days (always check with your prescribing practicitoner before stopping any medications).
Shave visible hair from the treatment area.
Male beards should be shaved on the day of treatment.
Precautions:
*If you are prone to fever blisters/cold sores, please take prophylactic antiviral medication (Valcyclovir, Acyclovir) prior to treatment.
If you have lesions in the treatment area that have not been evaluated or diagnosed: they should be evaluated prior to treatment day.
If you have skin malignacies – this should be evaluated prior to treatment by your primary medical practicioner.
If you have used retinols/retinoids in the last 7 days, this can cause erythema and casue the skin to become heat sensistive and occasionally pinpoint bleeding.
If you have tattoos, permanent makeup, and permanent brows in the treatment area: caution must be used because the ink in these areas is unregulated and may have metallic components. Notify the Provider.
The same procedure should be followed prior to each visit.
Post-meopausal women may have decreased elasticity in their skin. The results of treatment may be favorable but could potentially not last the same amount of time as they would for non-menopausal women.
Over time, patients who smoke may see reesults diminish more quickly than nonsmoker’s results. Smokers may also be more sensitive to heat. Please bear these things in mind when you come for your treatment.
Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your treatment to to fill out your Medical History Intake and sign Informed Consents.
During the treatment you can expect to feel some tingling and even some “snapping” sensations – this is normal and the tingling will typically resolve within 48 hours post treatment.
You can expect to have some redness and even some “gridding” over the treated areas. The redness resoves quickly within hours and looks like you were out in the sun. The “gridding” is from the needles, and can last several days, but is barely noticeable – and may even feel bumpy. This is normal. You can expect to still go have a normal day post-treatment while following all the post care instructions.
Rare Complications:
Skin purging – the energy and tissue heat can cause bacteria and oils deeper in the skin to erupt and cause a breakout. This is incredibly rare and will resolve as the skin heals. Do not pick at the bumps.
Histamine response – again, this is a rare occurrence, so if you experience rash like itchy redness – take a benadryl or antihistamine to help with symptoms, topical hydrocortisone also helps – it goes away in a few days. Cool compresses or ice compresses may be used to ease any irritation.
Neurotoxin Pre-Treatment Instructions
Botulinum toxin treatment involves the injection of highly diluted, individualized doses of botulinum toxin A into (or in proximity to) overactive muscles which are responsible for the formation of wrinkles. Botulinum toxin relaxes muscles by diminishing their ability to contract, thereby allowing for the body to replenish collagen under the wrinkles over time.
Pre-Treatment Instructions:
Avoid supplements such as Gingko, green tea, fish oil for 3-4 days prior to injections, to minimize the risk of bleeding or bruising.
Avoid medications such as aspirin and NSAIDS, including ibuprofen, Aleve, etc. for 3-4 days prior to injections.
Avoid chemical peels, topical retinoids, microdermabrasion, facials, and micro-needling for one week prior to injections.
Avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours before your botox visit – alcohol can cause bleeding and bruising from the lingering vasodilatory effects.
Please arrive with no makeup or topical medications on your skin if possible.
Please let our injector know if you have a history of myasthenia gravis, muscle weakness, or have had complications from any prior botox injections.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Pre-Treatment Instructions
Schedule your injection at a time when minor swelling or bruising will not disrupt your social obligations.
To lessen the likelihood of bleeding or bruising, discontinue use of blood thinning products for 10 days prior to treatment, if approved by your primary care provider. This includes: aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), naproxen, Aleve, fish oil, St. John’s Wort, flax, Vitamin E, Vitamin D, garlic, Ginkgo Biloba, ginseng, etc.
Alcohol should be avoided 24 hours pre- or post- injectable treatment, as it can increase the risk of bleeding or bruising. You can consider taking Arnica Montana natural supplement to help bruising (take 5 tablets three times per day starting one week prior to treatment).
Please notify your provider if you have any history of cold sores, as we will consider pre-medicating with an antiviral prescription prior to injections.
Cancel your appointment if you have any open sores in the treatment area. It is important that you alert us of any medical conditions you may have and/or any prescribed medications you are taking prior to your treatment.
Any injection introduces the risk for infection. For this reason, the following is taken into consideration when proceeding with injections. We will delay injectables if you:
- Have had any infection, cold, virus, or flu in the past 14 days.
- Have had any dental procedures in the past 2 weeks or are anticipating dental procedures or cleanings in the next 2 weeks.
- Have had a surgical procedure in the past 30 days or are anticipating a surgery or procedure.
- Have had any immunizations in the past 2 weeks or if you’re anticipating immunizations within 2 weeks.
- Have had any tattooing or permanent makeup within the past 2 weeks.
- Take any immunosuppressive/injectable medications (ex: Biologics such as Humira, Skyrizi, Stelara, Enbrel, Taltz, Cosentyx, Tremfya).
- Additional contraindications: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies to components of dermal fillers, open sores in areas to be treated.
- Please arrive to your appointment free of make-up, lotions, sunscreen, and with a clean face.
Botox for Hyperhydriasis Pre-Treatment Instructions
Keep hydrated by drinking water (at least eight cups daily) or hydrating fluids to improve treatment outcomes.
Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours in advance of your appointment.
Shave visible hair from the treatment area. The area to be treated should be clean, dry and intact. If you have any rashes, infections, or injuries at the area to be treated – please reschedule your appointment to ensure the best and safest possible outcome.
Do NOT use deodorant prior to your arrival.
The same procedure should be followed prior to each visit.
VI Peel Pre-Treatment Instructions
PRE TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHEMICAL FACIAL PEEL
Avoid microneedling 1-2 weeks before your chemical facial peel
Avoid sun exposure/ tanning beds 1 week before treatment
Avoid waxing, threading, or depilatory creams for 10-14 days before your chemical facial peel
Avoid electrolysis and laser treatments for 7 days before your appointment
Avoid using a Retin-A for 3 days before any chemical facial peel
Avoid Accutane (isotretinoin) use for 3-6 months prior to your chemical facial peel
IV Hydration Pre-Treatment Instructions
IV hydration treatments may take up to 90 minutes, depending on the infusion and other factors. Please plan your schedule accordingly, to allow for adequate time for your infusion.
Eat a good meal before arriving for your therapy. Meals cannot be consumed while in the medical spa. A meal combining protein and carbohydrates will help keep your blood sugar stable during the treatment.
If you experience a stinging sensation at the IV site notify your Provider, we can adjust the flow rate to keep it comfortable.
Inform your Provider of any changes in your medication or health status (weight gain/loss, shortness of breath, leg pain, bladder problems, etc).
Always drink 2 large glasses of water (24 oz) before and after your treatment. Your IV treatment is packed with many vitamins that are water soluble and proper hydration will facilitate the vitamins to nourish your body and maximize thier effectiveness.
Do not drink soda, coffee or tea prior to your treatment; these beverages cause dehydration and make it more difficult to start your IV.
Do not take vitamin or mineral supplements prior to your treatment unless otherwise specified by the Provider.
Do not engage in exercise 2 hours before or after your treatment.
Inform your Provider if you are pregnant or nursing.
During Your IV Hydration Treatment:
Inform your Provider immediately if you feel dizzy, nausea or a vitamin taste in your mouth. Adjustments will be made to ensure your IV is infusing properly. Your Provider will check in on you as you relax during your infusion to make sure you are comfortable.
Do not cross your legs during the treatment – this impairs circulation.
Bathroom: Always ask your Provider for assistance when using the bathroom. If blood should back up into the IV line, do not be alarmed. The IV bag should remain elevated above your head and the blood should clear the line. If you feel your IV has become compromised, notify your Provider immediately.
Avoid standing up too quickly to avoid becoming dizzy or a fall.
Vitamin hydration treatments are a wonderful way to care for your body from the inside out – we want the very best for you and will customize your IV vitamin formula to meet your needs.
PRP/PRF Pre-Treatment Instructions
In general, please avoid smoking, alcohol, and medications or supplements which may interfere with platelet function.
These include anti-inflammatory medication (i.e. Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Naprosyn, Aspirin, etc) and some supplements like glucosamine chondroitin, Gingko Biloba, ginseng, garlic, green tea, ginger, Omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil), Vitamin E. Try to avoid these supplements for 5-7 days prior to your treatment.
It is helpful to enjoy a healthy diet with lots of clear fluids before PRP/PRF treatments. Stay hydrated with water, avoid excess sugary drinks like soda pop or juice. Avoid Alcohol. Fatty foods should be avoided for about 4 hours prior to PRP/PRF tretaments.
Ideally, do not eat for 2 hours prior to treatment as this can make the plasma more lipemic.
Please do not stop any medication which has been prescribed by your doctor or health care provider without consulting with them first. Stopping medication on your own could lead to harmful effects on your health.
For those having PRP/PRF Hair Restoration treatments:
Please wash your hair prior to arrival. Your scalp should be clean and dry without any products in it. Please do not use any hair spray, gels, or topical medications on the day of your PRP/PRF treatment.
For those having PRP/PRF injections for filler or facials:
Light moisterizer is fine to use prior to treatment. Please do not apply makeup if you are having PRP/PRF injections to your face. For PRP/PRF injections, the skin should be clean and dry. Males should shave prior to treatment.
Dermaplaning/Dermaflash Pre-Treatment Instructions
The only instructions before dermaplaning or dermaflash treatment is to come to your visit without makeup or creams.
Please let your Provider know if you are using any active topicals (retinols, tretinioin, prescription skin care), these can make your skin more sensitive.
We highly recommend having a soothing and hydrating quality UVA/UVB SPF for daily use (even when not getting a facial). You can pick some up in clinic.
We carry soothing medical grade mineral-based SPF,which is uniquely formulated to prevent sunburns, premature aging, minimize wrinkles, and reduce the risk of skin cancer. It is available for purchase at our medical spa.
HydraFacial Pre-Treatment Instructions
Hydrafacial is the only hydra-dermabrasion treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection simultaneously, resulting in clearer, more beautiful skin with little-to no downtime. The treatment is soothing, moisturizing, non-invasive and generally non-irritating. As with most procedures, visible results from Hydrafacial will vary from person to person.
Hydafacial is safe for pregnant/nursing women – please notify our provider so we can select products to meet your needs.
What to expect:
- Your skin may experience temporary irritation, tightness, or redness. These are all normal reactions that typically resolve within 72 hours depending on skin sensitivity.
- You may experience tingling and stinging in the treatment area. These sensations generally subside within a few hours.
- Client experiences may vary. Some clients may experience a delayed onset of these symptoms.
- You will likely see results immediately after treatment and your skin may feel smooth and hydrated for 1 to 4 weeks with appropriate home care to maintain treatment results.
- The skin is more susceptible to sunburn/sun damage. Avoid excessive sun exposure and use a minimum of SPF 40+ sunscreen.
Please notify the Ethereal Aesthetics Provider if you have any of the following:
- Active acne or infection
- Open lesion or cold sore
- An active infection in the treatment area
- Active sunburn
- Skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, or rashes
- An autoimmune disease such as lupus
- A viral concern such as HIV or hepatitis
- Anticoagulant Therapy
- Melanoma or lesions suspected of malignancy
- Pregnancy or lactation
- Neurological disorders such as epilepsy (LED Lights)
- Infection in the urinary system i.e. kidneys, bladder and urethra (Lymphatic drainage)
- Crohn’s Disease (Lymphatic drainage)
- Hyperthyroidism (Lymphatic drainage)
- Deep Venous Thrombosis (Lymphatic drainage)
- Lymphedema (Lymphatic drainage)
- Used Accutane, topical medications or antibiotics in the last 6 weeks
- Had recent aesthetic fillers, injectables or laser treatments
*Saying YES does not always preclude you from receiving this treatment.*
Please alert the Provider and Ethereal Aesthetics staff if there are any changes to your medical history.
Sculptra Pre-Treatment Instructions
Days before your appointment:
Avoid the use of Aspirin, NSAIDS, Ginko Biloba, Garlic Supplements, Green Tea, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids for up to 1 week pre and post injection as they will increase your risk of bruising.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours before (or after) your treatment to avoid bruising.
You may take Arnica Montana tablets 2-3 days prior to your injection to reduce the risk of bruising.
Do not apply products that are potentially irritating for 2 -3 days before and after treatment (examples- tretinoin/retin-a, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone).
Inform your provider if you have a history of cold sores to receive advice on antiviral therapy prior to treatment.
Do not use the above stated if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Day of Treatment:
Please arrive to your Sculptra appointment with clean skin, free of make-up.
The treatment areas will be marked and injection sites numbed with either topical numbing or injected with Lidocaine for comfort.
Before your appointment we will discuss the procedure and collaborate on the areas that will be treated.
You may recieve either a topical numbing cream or injected Lidocaine to aid in comfort during treatment.
You may experience a mild amount of tenderness or stinging during and following injections.
Redness and swelling are normal. Some bruising may also be visible. If you are prone to bruising, your provider may send you home with some bruise cream to apply over the areas and will discuss instructions on how to use.
HA Filler Reversal/Dissolving with Hylenex
Dissolving fillers can be a complicated procedure that requires experience and skill. The practitioner must carefully assess the patient’s needs and determine the amount and type of filler that needs to be removed. They must also consider the patient’s medical history and any potential risks associated with the procedure. There is always a risk that this procedure could cause serious complications such as infection, scarring, allergic reaction, bleeding or nerve damage.
Before you embark on your filler dissolving procedure, it’s important to have a comprehensive understanding of the process. Don’t be shy about asking your practitioner plenty of questions, and make sure to share your medical history to avoid any potential complications.
One key thing to remember is to steer clear of any medications that can thin your blood such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or vitamin E for at least a week prior to your treatment. These could potentially heighten the risk of bruising or bleeding during the procedure. It’s also a good idea to stay well-hydrated and maintain a healthy diet leading up to your appointment. Your skin reflects your overall health and nourishing it from the inside will enhance the healing process post-procedure.
The procedure itself is typically quick and straightforward. The practitioner will use a tiny needle to inject hyaluronidase solution into the areas where the filler is located, then perform a gentle massage to the tissues to encourage the breakdown of the filler. This enzyme breaks down the hyaluronic acid-based fillers, allowing them to dissolve and be naturally eliminated by your body. The sensation is like a slight pinch or sting, but topical numbing cream or lidocaine is often used to minimize discomfort.
WHAT IS HYALURONIDASE AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Hyaluronidase is essentially an enzyme, derived from bee venom, that can cut through hyaluronic acid which is the primary ingredient in many dermal fillers. So, when we talk about dissolving fillers, it’s hyaluronidase (Hylenex) that does all the work. Please let your Provider know if you have an allergy to bee venom. A skin test should always be performed prior to any Hylenex injections to ensure your safety.
How does it work?
When injected into the area where the filler is, it breaks down the hyaluronic acid in the filler, helping to dissolve and absorb it into the body. It’s like a magic eraser for unwanted filler! This process can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of weeks. It may take 2-3 injections to fully dissolve the target area, depending on the location, size and other factors.
IS DISSOLVING FILLER WITH HYALURONIDASE SAFE?
It’s important to note that it is safe to dissolve filler with hyaluronidase when performed by a healthcare professional with the required expertise, this is vital! But, even in the safest of hands, there are still a few possible concerns, depending on the treated location. The risks and adverse effects of dissolving fillers include:
Bruising and or tenderness: Small bruises at the injection sites are the most common side effect. These typically fade within a few days.
Swelling: You may experience some swelling at the injection points. This is usually minor and resolves within 24 to 48 hours.
Redness: The injection site may appear red immediately after the treatment. This is a normal reaction and typically subsides within a few hours.
Volume loss or skin laxity: In rare cases, hyaluronidase can dissolve your body’s natural hyaluronic acid along with the filler’s. This can lead to volume loss in areas where you didn’t want it.
Allergic reaction: A small percentage of patients have been found to have an anaphylactic reaction to hyaluronidase which if untreated can have serious consequences. If you have a known allergy to bee or wasp stings then there is a chance that you may be allergic to hyaluronidase and would need to discuss this with your practitioner prior to considering filler treatments. At Ethereal Aesthetics, our Provider will perform a skin test prior to evaluating your response to Hyaluronidase (Hylenex) prior to injecting the area to be treated.
Slight bleeding which resolves quickly.
StemFacial® Microneedling Pre-Treatment Instructions
StemFacial® Microneedling Pre-Treatment Instructions
The Micro-Needling treatment allows for controlled induction of growth factor serums and hyaluronic acid, into the
skins self-repair process by creating micro injuries in the skin. These injuries stimulate new collagen production, while
not posing the risk of permanent scaring. The result is smoother, firmer and younger looking skin.
Contraindications:
Scleroderma, collagen vascular disease, or cardiac abnormalities, rosacea, blood clotting problems, platelet abnormalities, anticoagulation therapy (i.e.: Warfarin), facial cancer, past and present, chemotherapy, steroid therapy, dermatological diseases affecting the face (i.e. Porphyria), diabetes and other chronic conditions, active bacterial or fungal infections, immune-suppression, scars less than 6 months old and facial fillers in the past 2-4 weeks.
Treatment is not recommended for patients who are pregnant or nursing.
Precautions: keloid or raised scarring, eczema, psoriasis, actinic keratosis, and herpes simplex.
Side Effects Typically Include:
• Skin will be pink or red and may feel warm, like mild sunburn, tight and itchy, which
usually subside in 24 to 48 hours.
• Minor flaking or dryness of the skin, with scab formation in rare cases.
• Crusting, discomfort, bruising and swelling may occur.
• Pinpoint bleeding.
• It is possible to have a cold sore flare if you have a history of outbreaks – take an anti-viral medication prophylactically for 1-2 days before and after treatment to avoid cold sore eruption.
• Freckles may lighten temporarily or permanently disappear in treated areas.
• Infection is rare but if you see any signs of tender redness or puss notify our office immediately.
• Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) rarely occurs and usually resolves itself after a month.
• Permanent scarring (less than 1%) is extremely rare.
Please notify us of any medical conditions or skin conditions prior to booking this service.
Instructions for Lab Services
Our lab services are for personalized health insights and information only. Any abnormal lab values/findings should be shared directly with your primary care physician.
PLEASE DO:
Arrive to your appointment in a fasting state for over 8 hours.
You may drink sips of water or black coffee ONLY.
PLEASE DO NOT:
Eat foods high in fat, sugar, protein or salt prior to the blood draw. This will skew your results and provide inaccurate lab values that do not necessarily reflect your homeostatic state. This is particularly important to obtain accurate biomarkers for hormone, cardiac or metabolic values.
Our Provider will ask you about your medical history, fasting status and any other pertinent questions prior to service.
LaseMD Ultra Pre-Treatment Instructions
What is LaseMD Ultra?
LaseMD Ultra is a gentle but effective non-ablative laser that targets the water molecules in the skin. The treatment can be customized to fit your needs – whether you are looking for a light resurfacing to give your skin a glowing appearance before a special occasion or a deeper treatment to address fine lines, pigmentation and mild to moderate sun damage, LaseMD Ultra is the perfect addition to your skin care routine. LaseMD Ultra is also great to pair with other treatments, though not always in the same visit: neurotoxin injections, chemical peels, microneedling, dermaplaning and other facial services to maximize results.
PRE-TREATMENT
Here are some things you can do to prepare for an ultra laser treatment:
Avoid sun exposure! Avoid sun tanning, excess sun exposure and indoor tanning for at least 3-4 weeks prior to your treatment and avoid spray tans and self-tanners for at least 2 weeks prior to your visit. This is a must. You should also apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF of at least 20 daily when you’re outdoors.
Stop using certain products. Stop using topical acids and exfoliants, like retinoids, and glycolic acid, for 3 days before your treatment. You should also avoid aggressive facials: waxing, electrolysis, threading, and other laser treatments for at least a week before your procedure.
Cleanse your skin. On the day of your treatment, arrive with clean skin and avoid applying lotion, cosmetics, or sunscreen to the treatment area. If you do so, please let us know so we can cleanse the area prior to treatment.
Wear comfortable clothing. Wear loose clothing so the treatment area is easy to access. If necessary, you will be scheduled to arrive 30 minutes prior to your planned laser treatment for application of numbing cream to make the treatment more comfortable. Most often there is no need for numbing to be applied – this will be determined by the practitioner.
What can I expect during treatment?
You will feel some heat and tingling as the laser is passed over the skin. The number of passes and procedure time will depend on the depth of treatment, lasting anywhere from 5-20 minutes. For mild treatments, the discomfort is very minimal.
What are the possible risks of Ultra Laser?
Side effects of laser treatment are manageable and while complications are rare with modern lasers, there is still some risk.
The primary risks are as follows:
Pigment changes: There is a risk of healing with hyperpigmentation (darker color) or
hypopigmentation (lighter color) in laser treated areas. In patients with darker skin tones the risk is greater and so precautions such as lower laser settings are often used. Hyperpigmentation can be treated with hydroquinone creams and will often improve on its own over time. For those who are at higher risk we may pretreat with a hydroquinone cream to reduce this risk.
Infection: Bacterial and viral infections in treated areas are rare. Those with a history of frequent cold sores are at risk of reactivation of cold sores if they are undergoing laser treatment on their face. Please let the clinic know if you have a history of frequent cold sores, please notify the provider, and antiviral medication will be prescribed to use just prior and immediately after laser treatment. Bacterial infections may present as the eruption of numerous painful pustules, non healing sores and honey colored crusting.
Are there patients that should not undergo treatment with LaseMD Ultra?
Treatment is not recommended for patients that have current skin cancer, active rash, or skin infection in the treatment area. Additionally, treatment is not recommended for patients who are pregnant or nursing.
How long should I wait between treatments?
Treatments should be spaced on average 4-6 weeks apart to allow adequate time for full recovery of skin in between sessions. Most patients require several treatments to achieve desired results.
POST TREATMENT
What should I expect after my LaseMD Ultra treatment?
You may experience redness and a burning sensation, like a sunburn, for a few hours immediately post treatment. This can be managed with soft gel ice packs, cold compresses and aloe or laser gel. Redness and sensitivity may last 2 days and occasionally light swelling occurs on post treatment day 1-2.
Keep the treated skin clean; use clean pillow cases each night for several days until the skin is healed. Skin should be cleansed morning and evening. Keep the treatment area well moisturized. Use a cream-based moisturizer rather than a balm/ointment-based moisturizer as often as needed. For those with intense itching not relieved with moisturizing alone, an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may also be used twice a day for up to 1 week.
Protect your skin investment by using medical grade skin care as recommended by our providers. We carry multiple products that are safe to use before and after any in-office energy-based treatments.
The skin typically forms a dry, brown, coarse coffee ground like crust 1-2 days after treatment. Gently wash the skin with your fingertips and a mild cleanser and pat the skin dry. Do not scrub or exfoliate the treated area. The coarse crusts naturally slough on their own in 5-7 days for most patients.
Avoid vigorous exercise, saunas, and hot tubs for the first 72 hours post treatment or until redness, sensitivity and swelling has resolved. Increased redness may result from any activity that raises heart rate or body temperature (i.e. saunas, exercise, alcohol consumption).
Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen along with sun protective clothing or broad brimmed hats to keep the treatment area sun protected for 3 weeks post treatment. Seek shade for sun protection when possible.
We look forward to working with you towards your goal of beautiful healthy skin!
Pre-Treatment Information for Skin Boosters
Pre-Treatment Instructions
- Avoid Blood Thinners – For 3-5 days before treatment, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), fish oil, vitamin E, and other blood-thinning supplements (unless medically necessary) to reduce bruising risk.
- Limit Alcohol & Caffeine – Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment to minimize swelling and bruising.
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water before your session to support skin hydration and optimize results.
- Avoid Active Skincare – Discontinue use of retinol, AHAs/BHAs, and exfoliating acids 3-5 days before treatment to prevent skin irritation.
- No Dental Work or Vaccines – Avoid scheduling dental work, vaccinations, or other injectable treatments within 2 weeks of your appointment to minimize risk of infection.
- Cold Sore Prevention – If you are prone to cold sores, take your prescribed antiviral medication (e.g., Valtrex) starting 1-2 days before treatment.
- Come with Clean Skin – Arrive at your appointment with no makeup, lotions, or skincare products on the treatment area.
Our Practitioner will discuss the areas you desire to treat and topical numbing may be applied if needed – skin boosters can be combined with Potenza RF Microneedling using a Fusion Tip to infuse the sterile skin booster into the skin for enhanced benefits. As with any treatment – you may experience bruising that can take several weeks to resolve, depending on the areas treated and other factors (skin quality, lifestyle, overall health and age).
Oral and topical Arnica Montana can help minimize bruising and speed recovery from bruising.
