• 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). 
• For areas with hair, shave the treatment area 1 – 2 days before your appointment, but avoid waxing or plucking for 1-2 weeks prior.
• No Botox/fillers/or injectables 2 weeks prior to treatment or 1 week post treatment.
• No cold sores, open wounds, or other skin conditions in the area being treated.
• 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).
• Avoid the use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within 6 months of treatment. 

WHAT TO EXPECT POST-TREATMENT FOR SKINTYTE:

• Patient response can vary. Erythema (redness) is most commonly noticed within a few minutes after the completion of the procedure. This typically tends to subside within 1-4 hours after the treatment.
• A slight sunburn sensation in and around the area treated is normal and expected. This typically tends to subside within 1-4 hours after the treatment and a cool compress may be used.
• Some minimal discomfort is normal, but for moderate discomfort you may take oral pain relievers such as Extra Strength Tylenol or Advil.

• Until sensitivity has subsides, avoid all of the following:
  • Scented lotions/soaps, retinols and/or exfoliants (retin-a/tretinoin, glycolic acid, salicylic acid (BHA), alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), acne creams or gels, loofa sponges and aggressive scrubbing
  • No hot or cold water, use tepid when showering
  • Shaving
  • Swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas, or spas that have multiple chemicals/chlorine and severe temperature changes
  • Activities that cause excessive perspiration

• A cool compress can be used to provide comfort if the treated is especially warm. This is rarely needed but if is it, it would occur within the first 4 hours post treatment.
• Makeup MAY be applied after the treatment as long as the skin is intact and there are no signs of blistering.
• Vitamin E or Aloe Vera may be applied to the treatment area to provide a soothing effect.
• Avoid any sun exposure to the treated area for a minimum of 7 days after the procedure. The area will be more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change. Keep the area covered and use an SPF/sunblock of at least 30 (such as Alastin Silkshield), reapplying every two hours. Delayed blistering secondary to sun exposure has been noted up to 72 hours post treatment.

SKINCARE INSTRUCTIONS POST-TREATMENT FOR SKINTYTE:

• 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. 
• Sunscreen: Sunscreen  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. Apply antibiotic ointment, avoid direct sunlight, and call us immediately. 
2. Have additional questions or concerns regarding your treatment/treatment follow-up.