• While most patients experience minimal downtime – such as temporary redness or mild increased pigmentation immediately after treatment — and can resume normal activities the same day, some may have a prolonged recovery period lasting up to two weeks. For this reason, it is important to plan important social events in advance and allow yourself a full two weeks for complete recovery.
• Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for 2–4 weeks prior to treatment. Skin should be as light as possible to reduce risk of hyperpigmentation or burns. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily and reapply frequently if outdoors, even in cloudy weather.
• Discontinue any products containing active ingredients 7 days prior to treatment, such as: Retinol (Retin-A, Tretinoin, Vitamin A), Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, AHAs (Alpha-hydroxy acids), LHAs (Lipo hydroxy acids) and Benzoyl Peroxide. Avoid hydroquinone for 3 days before your treatment. If you have any product questions on what is or isn’t safe to use, please call or text the office.
• Discontinue oral medications and supplements such as: NSAIDS (Ibuprofen, Aspirin and etc), Magnesium, Vitamin D, Fish oil, Flaxseed oil 5-7 days before treatment to minimize bruising and petechiae.
• If you are very sensitive to pain – you can take Extra Strength Tylenol 500mg 2 tablets 1 hour prior to your treatment.
• Inform your provider about all medications you are taking, particularly antibiotics or drugs that increase photosensitivity, as well as prescription blood-thinning agents, biological infusions or injections, steroids, and hormones.
• If there is a history of herpes simplex (cold sores) in the treatment area, consult your provider regarding antiviral prophylaxis. Valtrex or Valacyclovir should be taken per provider recommendations (typical 1-2 days prior to treatment for 5-7 days). 
• Arrive at your appointment with clean, makeup-free and product-free skin. Do not apply lotions, creams, deodorant, or SPF to the area before your session (with the exception of numbing cream if it was given prior).
• For areas with hair, shave the treatment area 1 – 2 days before your appointment, but avoid waxing or plucking for 1-2 weeks prior.
• Avoid the use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within 6 months of treatment. 

WHAT TO EXPECT POST-TREATMENT FOR BBL HEROic & MOXI:

• Discomfort: Please be advised that you may experience a certain degree of discomfort, redness, and/or irritation during and after treatment. For discomfort, an over the counter pain reliever (such as extra strength Tylenol) may be used.
• Itching: As the skin heals, some itching is normal. Taking a Benadryl at night might be suggested but be aware it can cause drowsiness.
• Feeling of warmth/sun burn: The treated area may be extremely warm for 1-2 hours after the treatment. This sensation may persist for up to 24 hours. Cool compresses can be used for comfort, but do not apply ice directly to the skin. You may also mist pure mineral water on the skin for relief and to add moisture.
• Redness: Redness for 2 to 3 days is normal and expected. Redness generally increases in intensity for the first few days after treatment with day 3 usually being the most intense. Redness can persist for up to 7 days depending on the intensity of the treatment. Use gentle cleansers and keep your skin moisturized and out of the sun, which will allow your skin time to heal and limit further stress on your skin. Makeup can be once the peeling process is complete. 
• Brown spots and/or freckles (and MENDs): These may turn darker and then flake or crumble off during and after treatment, for up to 7 days. During this time, your skin will be very dry and feel like sandpaper before flaking and peeling off. Keep your skin well moisturized to support the healing process. DO NOT PICK AT YOUR SKIN. 
• Swelling: Swelling is common and expected immediately after treatment. Using a cool compress can help relieve the swelling. To avoid further swelling, you can choose to sleep in an upright position the first 2-3 nights after the treatment. Swelling is most prevalent the first morning post treatment, particularly around the eyes. Swelling can last 2-4 days.

• Immediately after treatment, mild redness, swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation are normal and may last several hours to a few days. Cool compresses can be used for comfort, but avoid direct ice application to the skin. 
• To avoid further swelling or discomfort, sleeping in an upright position the first 2-3 nights post treatment has been proven to be helpful. The first morning post treatment is when swelling is more prevalent, even under the eyes. Swelling may last 2-4 days. 
• Strictly avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least 7 – 14 days post-treatment; use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and keep treated areas covered when outdoors. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or protective covering for 2 months post treatment to further avoid blistering, scarring, or any additional pigmentation.
• Freckles, pigment, or sunspots may darken and flake off over 7 – 14 days; do not pick or scratch these areas.
• Avoid hot tubs, saunas, vigorous exercise, and excessive sweating for 48 hours post-treatment to reduce inflammation and risk of irritation.
• When showering, avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area.
• Do not use retinoids, exfoliants, or harsh topical agents until the skin fully recovers.
• Do not use SELF-TANNERS on the treated areas. Self-tanner will make your pigment return.
• Continue sun protection and gentle skin care for at least two weeks following your procedure. Maintenance treatments may be advised based on your provider’s recommendations.

SKINCARE INSTRUCTIONS POST-TREATMENT FOR BBL HEROic & MOXI:

• Cleansing: Cleanse the skin two times daily with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser (such as Cetaphil or Alastin Gentle Cleanser) beginning the morning after the treatment. Use your hands and gentle patting motions. DO NOT rub, scrubs, or use an exfoliant or a skin care brush on the treated area.
  • Use a soft cloth and soft towels to avoid any scrubbing. You may even use a soft, disposable towel (like from Clean Skin Club or a dupe) to PAT the skin dry after cleansing.
• Moisturizer: Generously apply moisturizer with clean hands over the treated area and reapply whenever your skin feels dry. DO NOT apply any other products that were not instructed by your providers (like essential oils, coconut oil, etc.)
• Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a NECESSARY and REQUIRED part of the treatment! It should be used beginning the day AFTER treatment and used consistently for up to 3 months post treatment. Use a physical sunscreen with broadband UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of at least 30 (such as Alastin SilkShield). Make sure to reapply during sun exposure. 

Contact us if you:

1. Experience blistering, broken skin, drainage (looks like pus), fever, severe swelling or severe pain.
2. Have additional questions or concerns regarding your treatment/treatment follow-up.