Before:
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Use sunscreen and physical sun protection.
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Avoid extended sun exposure, i.e. beach, travel to sunny locations, sunbathing, sports outdoors.
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Inform your clinician if any physician has ordered Accutane for you in the last year.
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Inform our staff of any medical conditions or medications you are taking that might affect wound healing or affect coagulation.
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Inform our staff of any anticoagulant medication.
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Inform our staff if you have a history of cold sores- treatment may cause recurrence- an antiviral treatment may be prescribed to reduce this risk
After:
FEELING OF WARMTH:
The treated area may be extremely warm for 1-2 hours after the treatment. Warmth may continue for 12-24 hours after the treatment. Cold compresses may provide comfort during this time. Also, a mineral water spray might provide some relief and much needed moisture to the skin.
REDNESS (ERYTHEMA):
Redness 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 treatment.
MENDs:
MENDs (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris) will appear on the 2nd or 3rd day after treatment as tiny dark spots and bronzed appearance to the treated skin. MENDs are part of the healing process where treated tissue is working its way out of your body as new fresh skin is regenerated. During this time, your skin will be very dry and feel like sandpaper before faking and peeling off. Keep your skin well moisturized to support the healing process. Do not pick at your skin.
PINPOINT BLEEDING:
Pinpoint bleeding may occur and could last for a few hours and up to 12 hours. Dab with damp gauze.
SWELLING (EDEMA):
Swelling is common and expected immediately after treatment. Use of a cold compress will help to relieve the swelling. To avoid further swelling, you may choose to sleep in an upright position the first 2-3 nights after the treatment. The first morning post treatment is when swelling is more prevalent, especially under the eyes. Swelling may last 2-4 days.
CLEANSING:
Cleanse the skin two times a day with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, beginning the morning after the treatment. Use your hands and gentle patting motions. DO NOT rub, scrub, use an exfoliant, wash cloth or a skin care brush, e.g. Clarisonic in the treated area.
MOISTURIZER:
Moisturizer should be applied generously with clean hands over treated area and reapplied whenever your skin feels dry. Do not apply any other products that were not instructed by your doctor – eg. essential oils, coconut oil, etc.
SUNSCREEN:
Sunscreen is a MUST and should be used daily beginning the day after treatment and used consistently for up to 3 months post procedure. Use sunscreen with Broadband UVA and UVB protection and a SPF of 30. Ensure to reapply during sun exposure.
TIPS AND TRICKS:
- Use soft cloth and soft towels to avoid any scrubbing
- Make-up can typically be worn once the peeling process is complete
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat or protective clothing for 2 months post treatment to avoid blistering, scarring, hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation
- When showering, avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area
- Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after skin has healed