Pre & Post Care Instructions

• Once you arrive at the spa, and before you facial begins, your esthetician will go through a brief consultation to discuss your skin goals and find out what type of facial treatment is best for you. During the treatment, they’ll use specialized tools (such as extractors, microcurrent wands, or LED light therapy), customized peels, masks and products that help cleanse, hydrate, calm and exfoliate your skin. You can also expect a relaxing face massage that improves blood circulation and reduces stress, though if this is your primary goal for the facial please let your esthetician know prior to beginning your treatment facial. Finally, once you’ve received your facial, you may be given optional instructions for a new homecare routine in order to extend the results of your treatment. Following these tips should help you to get the most benefit and experience  lasting results from your facial!

Pre-Treatment Instructions:

•  Discontinue the use of topical medications or products that may be irritating to the skin, such as scrubs, retinols, and acne products, 1 week prior to treatment.
•  Do not wax in the treatment area immediately prior to treatment.
•  If you have a history of the perioral herpes simplex virus, we may recommend prophylactic antiviral therapy in the form of Valtrex. If so, follow the directions for your prescription.
•  Avoid treatment with injectable neurotoxins (Botox and Dysport) immediately preceding your Treatment Facial. Treatment with injectable neurotoxins immediately afterward is ok.

Post-Treatment Instructions:

•  There is usually no downtime associated with Treatment Facials, and treatments can be repeated as often as necessary to keep skin looking fresh. Although rare, there is a possibility that skin will be red, itchy, and/or irritated.

If you’re thinking about getting a facial, there are some things that you should keep in mind before and after your treatment. Before your appointment, it’s important to make sure that you don’t have any open cuts, wounds or herpes on your face. You also want to avoid using any products containing retinol or glycolic acid for at least 24 hours before your appointment. These ingredients can make your skin sensitive and more susceptible to damage during the facial.

After your facial, it’s important to take care of your face properly in order to ensure that the results you see from your treatment last as long as possible. Start by gently cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser before bedtime. Avoid exfoliation for 3-5 days after your treatment. Use a Sapien approved moisturizer and product routine customized to you during your treatment. And finally, avoid wearing makeup for at least 24 hours after your facial, don’t touch or pick your skin and make sure you use clean pillowcases, towels, sheets, and clean your eye and sunglasses.

Following these tips should help you get the most out of your facial experience and keep your skin looking great!

Please call your master esthetician with any questions or concerns you may have.

Pre-Treatment Instructions:

• No Retin-A products or applications for 48 hours prior to treatment.
• No Auto-immune therapies or products for 48 hours prior to treatment.
• No prolonged sun exposure or sunburns to the treatment area 72 hours prior to treatment.
• No drugs or alcohol 48 hrs prior.
• The skin should be clean and make-up free.
• If an active or extreme breakout occurs before treatment, evaluate on a case by case basis. Please text photos to 206-698-2431 for review.
• No Botox or injections for 2 weeks prior
• Bring your own UPF protection (i.e. Bluestone Sunshield) to your appointment as SPF will not be applied after the service and any light exposure will cause damage to the skin. If you do not have sufficient UPF protection, you will be required to purchase a Bluestone Sunshield at the time of your appointment.

Post-Treatment Instructions:

• After the treatment, take precautions against sun exposure. Do not apply sunscreen for 12 hours after the Microneedling treatment due to the skin’s channels being open for a period of time.
• Do not perform any vigorous exercise for at least 24-72 hours after treatment.
• Avoid excessive heat including hot showers, steam, saunas, etc. 
• Before touching your face or applying facial products, be sure to wash your hands well: there are micro-pathways opened into the dermis and hands will introduce bacteria.
• Do not apply make-up for at least 19 hours after the treatment. We recommend tinted sunscreen for use post-procedure versus other foundations.
• Change your pillowcases and hand towel
• Clean your eye and sun glasses
• Microneedling may trigger a cold sore response in patients and prophylaxis medication should be recommended for those who are prone to breakouts.
• Do not apply anything to your skin within 19hrs of the procedure that your therapist did not specify.
• For the first 1-3 days the skin will be very dry and feel tight. You may cleanse twice a day with a gentle cleanser and moisturize with an approved moisturizer throughout the day, and apply approved SPF throughout the day. Avoid retinoids, aha/bha, vitamin c, and other actives for 3-5 days, or until the skin is healed.
• After 2-3 days patients can return to regular skin care products or as soon as it is comfortable to do so.
• Avoid alcohol-based toners for 10-14 days.
• Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 10 days if possible. 

Treatment Recovery Timeline:

Day 1: Erythema and red appearance and severity will depend upon how aggressive the treatment was performed.

Day 2: A red hue or pink hue persists like a moderate sunburn. Swelling may be more noticeable on the second day.

Day 3-5: Skin can be pink or normal color. Swelling subsides.

PRIOR TO TREATMENT INSTRUCTION:

• No Retin-A products or applications for 48 hours prior to treatment.
• No Auto-immune therapies or products for 48 hours prior to treatment.
• No prolonged sun exposure or sunburns to the treatment area at least 72 hours prior to treatment.
• No drugs or alcohol 48 hrs prior.
• If an active or extreme breakout occurs before treatment, evaluate on a case by case basis. Please text photos to 206-698-2431 for review.
• No Botox or injections for 2 weeks prior
• The skin should be clean and make-up free.
• Bring your own UPF protection (i.e. Bluestone Sunshield) to your appointment as SPF will not be applied after the service and any light exposure will cause damage to the skin. If you do not have sufficient UPF protection, you will be required to purchase a Bluestone Sunshield at the time of your appointment.

POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS:

• After the treatment, take precautions against sun exposure. Do not apply sunscreen for 12 hours after the Microneedling treatment due to the skin’s channels being open for a period of time.
• Do not perform any vigorous exercise for at least 24-72 hours after treatment.
• Avoid excessive heat including hot showers, steam, saunas, etc. 
• Do not apply make-up for at least 19 hours after the treatment. We recommend tinted sunscreen for use post-procedure versus other foundations.
• Change your pillowcase and hand towels
• Clean your eye and sun glasses
• Before touching your face or applying facial products, be sure to wash your hands well: there are micro-pathways opened into the dermis and hands will introduce bacteria.
• Scabbing may occur in the areas where indented scars have been treated with a chemical peel. It is important to let them shed off on their own. To care for the scabs it is best to keep them protected by using hydrocolloid acne patches. When cleansing your skin, let the patches become water logged until they slip off, rather than peeling them off which can take off the scab prematurely. 
• Microneedling may trigger a cold sore response in patients and prophylaxis medication should be recommended for those who are prone to breakouts.
• Do not apply anything to your skin within 19hrs of the procedure that your therapist did not specify.
• For the first 1-3 days the skin will be very dry and feel tight. You may cleanse twice a day with a gentle cleanser and moisturize with an approved moisturizer throughout the day, and apply approved SPF throughout the day, at least every 2 hours. Avoid retinoids, aha/bha, vitamin c, and other actives for 3-5 days, or until the skin is healed.
• After 2-3 days patients can return to regular skin care products or as soon as it is comfortable to do so.
• Avoid alcohol-based toners for 10-14 days.
• Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 10 days if possible. 

TREATMENT RECOVERY TIMELINE:

Day 1: Erythema and red appearance and severity will depend upon how aggressive the treatment was performed.

Day 2: A red hue or pink hue persists like a moderate sunburn. Swelling may be more noticeable on the second day and marks may be visible.

Day 3-5: Skin can be pink or normal color. Swelling subsides. Scabs may form and marks may be visible.

Day 5-10: Textural changes can persist, and marks and scabs may still be visible.

Pre-Treatment Instructions:

• No Retin-A products or applications for 48 hours prior to treatment.
• No Auto-immune therapies or products for 48 hours prior to treatment.
• No prolonged sun exposure or sunburns to the treatment area 72 hours prior to treatment.
• No drugs or alcohol 48 hrs prior.
• If an active or extreme breakout occurs before treatment, evaluate on a case by case basis. Please text photos to 206-698-2431 for review.
• Drink plenty of water beginning a week before and leading up to your appointment
• No Botox or injections for 2 weeks prior
• The skin should be clean and make-up free.
• Bring your own UPF protection (i.e. Bluestone Sunshield) to your appointment as SPF will not be applied after the service and any light exposure will cause damage to the skin. If you do not have sufficient UPF protection, you will be required to purchase a Bluestone Sunshield at the time of your appointment.

Post-Treatment Instructions:

• Do not scrub or exfoliate the skin.
• Wash the area with warm water and a mild cleanser.
• Do not apply liquid makeup for 24 hours; mineral makeup is acceptable after the erythema resolves. Be sure to apply makeup with clean brushes to avoid spreading bacteria to the treated area.
• If erythema after treatment persists, use an ice pack or cool compresses at home; always use a protective barrier, such as a face cloth, between the skin and the ice pack.
• Before touching your face or applying facial products, be sure to wash your hands well: there are micro-pathways opened into the dermis and hands will introduce bacteria.
• If skin feels tight or dry, apply approved moisturizing cream as often as desired.
• If you currently have skin breakouts, you may find that the condition may temporarily worsen due to inflammation or edema.
• Do not pick at treated tissue, doing so may result in hyper- or hypopigmentation.
• Avoid ultraviolet rays and apply approved sunblock >30 SPF UV A/B daily.
• Avoid alcohol consumption if possible.
• For 24-72 hours, refrain from cardio exercise or activities that increase the body temperature and cause perspiration, i.e., hot yoga, saunas, etc.
• Contact your practitioner if any problems develop: concerns regarding rash, itching, erythema, etc., for more than 24 hours.
• Take precautions against sun exposure. Do not apply sunscreen for 12 hours after the RF Microneedling treatment due to the skin’s channels being open for a period of time.
• Do not perform any vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours after treatment.
• Do not apply make-up for at least 19 hours after the treatment. We recommend tinted sunscreen for use post-procedure versus other foundations.
• Microneedling may trigger a cold sore response in patients and prophylaxis medication should be recommended for those who are prone to breakouts.
• Do not apply anything to your skin within 19hrs of the procedure that your therapist did not specify.
• For the first 1-3 days the skin will be very dry and feel tight. You may cleanse twice a day with a gentle cleanser and moisturize with an approved moisturizer throughout the day, and apply approved SPF throughout the day. Avoid retinoids, aha/bha, vitamin c, and other actives for 3-5 days, or until the skin is healed.
• After 2-3 days patients can return to regular skin care products or as soon as it is comfortable to do so.
• Avoid alcohol-based toners for 10-14 days.
• Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 10 days if possible. 

Expected Side Effects:

• Erythema (redness) may occur after the treatment, lasting a few hours and up to three days.
• The tissue may be edematous (swollen) for a few hours up to several days.
• Pinpoint bleeding on the surface of the skin can be expected with deeper treatments.
• Bleeding is temporary and is typically resolved by the end of the patient.
• Overtreated tissue may heal with small areas of micro crusting or scabbing.
• Burning sensation: patients may feel uncomfortable temporarily while receiving treatment.
• Temporary tingling which typically resolves within 48 hours.

Treatment Recovery Timeline:

Day 1: Erythema and red appearance and severity will depend upon how aggressive the treatment was performed. Grid marks may be visible.

Day 2: A red hue or pink hue persists like a moderate sunburn. Swelling may be more noticeable on the second day and grid marks may be visible.

Day 3-5: Skin can be pink or normal color. Swelling subsides. and grid marks may be visible.

Day 5-10: Textural changes can persist, and marks may still be visible. Expect the body to heal 60% slower than the face.

Pre-Treatment Instructions:

• No prolonged sun exposure or sunburns to the treatment area 72 hours prior to treatment.
• Drink plenty of water beginning 5-7 days before and leading up to your appointment
• No drugs or alcohol 48 hrs prior.
• The skin should be clean and make-up free.

Post-Treatment Instructions:

• If skin feels tight or dry, apply approved moisturizing cream as often as desired.
• Avoid ultraviolet rays and apply approved sunblock >30 SPF UV A/B daily.
• Avoid alcohol consumption

HydraFacial Pre-Treatment Instructions:

• Avoid excess sun exposure, including tanning beds for 1 week minimum before treatment, and use SPF 30 or greater daily to ensure coverage against UVB and UBA rays.
• Do not use any type of exfoliants 2 days before treatment. 
• Refrain from any chemical peels or lasers for 2 weeks prior.
• Discontinue use of Tretinoin-type products (Renova, Tretinoin, Retin A, Retin A Micro, Tri-Luma, Solage, etc.) at least 2 days before treatment. 
• Discontinue the use of Hydroquinone 2-3 days before treatment. 
• If you have a history of cold sores, consider beginning prophylactic treatment with Valtrex or similar no later than the day of treatment. 
• Notify the center if you develop a cold sore, acne, open lesions in the area being treated, or experience any type of illness before your treatment. 
• Wait 2 weeks after Botox and filler treatments to have a HydraFacial treatment.
• Botox and filler may be done on the same day, but only after HydraFacial treatment. 

HydraFacial Post-Treatment Instructions:

• Avoid any exfoliation to the area for 3 days post-treatment.
• To keep the area clean, avoid heat sources, including hot showers, saunas, and cardio workouts that may produce sweat for 24 hours.
• You may wash your face the following morning using the products recommended by your provider.
• Please discuss continuing the use of your regular regimen post-treatment. 
• Do not use topical Retin-A for 2 days following treatment.
• Avoid sun exposure and for at least 3 days post-treatment.
• Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 2 hours.
• Makeup may be applied the day after treatment.
• Change your pillowcase and hand towel
• Clean your eye and sun glasses
• Use your humidifier daily/nightly

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR A CHEMICAL PEEL?

• Avoid the use of prescription skincare products, retinoids, abrasive and chemical exfoliants, masks, and self tanners 1-2 days before your chemical peel.
• Avoid sun exposure and waxing/hair removal for one week prior.
• Be diligent with moisturizer and sunscreen application as well as reapplication for at least 1-2 weeks prior and use your humidifier daily/nightly to support hydration. 
• Do not attempt to pick or extract any acne lesions prior to your service. 

Post Peel

• A superficial peel can produce some redness, similar to a mild sunburn, which may last 3 to 5 days. The more intense (medium and deep) peels will result in noticeable redness, swelling, blistering (in the case of deep peels), and/or peeling for 7 to 14 days. Deep chemical peels may also require bandages to be applied for a few days following treatment, along with prescribed painkillers to manage the discomfort.
• Immediately after a chemical peel, skin becomes more photosensitive. It is absolutely necessary that a broad-spectrum sunscreen is applied daily post-treatment, and that sun exposure is avoided or kept to a minimum. Reapplication of this sunscreen is required every 90 minutes to 2 hours. 

AFTER your chemical peel;

• Avoid sun exposure, always use UPF protection, and be diligent with application and reapplication of SPF 30 or higher.
• Change your pillowcase and hand towel. 
• Clean your sun and eye glasses. 
• Avoid makeup for 24 hours.
• Anticipate that your skin may feel dry and tight, but your softer, smoother skin will be revealed in 2 to 3 days after your appointment. Reapply your approved moisturizer throughout the day and reapply SPF every 90 mins regardless of where you are, what you’re doing, or the season. You may flake and peel, but do not pick or pull at your skin otherwise, it could cause scarring.
• Trimming of any large shedding sheets of skin is ok using clean, small eyebrow scissors that have been wiped with 70% isopropyl alcohol. 
• While you are healing, do not use any exfoliating or retinoid products until the majority of the peeling has stopped and your skin is beginning to feel back to normal. 
• Do not exercise for 72 hours after your peel appointment. Avoid excessive heat including hot showers, water when cleansing, saunas, steam etc. 
• Bring UPF protection (i.e. Bluestone Sunshield) to your appointment as SPF may not be applied after the appointment and exposure to light following the service will cause damage to the skin. If you do not have sufficient UPF protection, you will be required to purchase a Bluestone Sunshield at the time of your appointment.

What to Expect During IPL Treatment

Before the procedure, don’t:

• Drink alcohol
• Tan in the sun, in a tanning bed, or with tanning creams for 6 weeks prior
• Wax, get chemical peel, microneedling, or injections for 2 weeks before
• Wear perfume, makeup, deodorant, or any skin irritants
• Take aspirin or another drug that can make you bleed more
• Take any medication that will make you sun-sensitive; for example, the antibiotic doxycycline.
• Once you’re there, a technician will rub the gel on your clean skin. You’ll wear dark glasses to protect your eyes. The handheld IPL device will go right on your body. The session will probably last 30-45 minutes. Large areas could take an hour or more.
• While most people are fine with the light pulses, the treatment could sting a little. It might feel like someone is snapping a rubber band on you.

What Recovery From IPL Treatment Looks Like

It may feel like you have a sunburn for 4-6 hours after you’re finished. Ice packs or a cool washcloth can help you feel better.

Your skin may be red or bruised for a day or two. Some of your brown spots may get darker, but they should peel off within a couple of weeks.

Some people experience mild to moderate swelling. This is not medically meaningful and is just part of your bodies immune response while you heal. Although it is considered an anticipated response, some people find swelling to be emotionally distressing. Here are some things you can do proactively to reduce the risk of swelling:

• Tell your esthetician about your concerns prior to your treatment
• Abstain from alcohol at least one week prior to and after your treatment
• Eat a diet with plenty of vegetables and water
• Get adequate sleep
• Exercise regularly
• Be diligent and compliant with sunscreen

Post Treatment, here are some ways to reduce swelling:

• Take antihistamines such as Benadryl for the first 24-48hrs post treatment
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid travel in an airplane
• Use cool compresses,  cold masks, ice rollers, etc. several times a day during the first 24-48hrs
• Allow your head to remain elevated above your heart by at least a couple of inches, especially while sleeping, and avoid sleeping on your side
• Avoid elevating your heart rate via stress or exercise for the first first 48 hrs
• Get plenty of sleep and rest, and manage your stress levels
• Drink water and avoid salt, sugar and alcohol and opt for fresh nutrient dense foods
• Avoid heat- no hot yoga or hot showers for a few days
• Mild movement is helpful such as walking around, but no strenuous exercise

While you heal:

• Don’t put on makeup 
• Avoid alcohol
• Elevate the treated area
• Use an ice pack
• Use moisturizing lotion.
• Protect yourself with sunscreen. Make sure it has an SPF of at least 30 and a physical blocker like zinc. Reapply it every 2 hours, even if it’s not sunny outside.
• Wash your face with a cleanser for sensitive skin.
• Your esthetician can tell you when it’s safe to return to your normal skin care routine. 
• Avoid strenuous exercise and excessive heat while the skin is inflamed

Most people get between three and seven sessions. It depends on the condition you’re treating. You’ll wait 2-4 weeks between each visit. It may take several weeks for you to notice any changes in your skin.

What to Expect

Before the procedure, don’t:

• Tan in the sun, in a tanning bed, or with tanning creams for 4 weeks prior
• Wax, or get a chemical peel or collagen shots for 2 weeks before
• Wear perfume, makeup, deodorant, or any skin irritants
• Take aspirin or another drug that can make you bleed more
• Take any medication that will make you sun-sensitive; for example, the antibiotic doxycycline.

During the treatment, a technician will rub the gel on your clean skin. You’ll wear dark glasses to protect your eyes. The handheld IPL device will go right on your body. The session will probably last 30-45 minutes. Large areas could take an hour or more.

While most people are fine with the light pulses, the treatment could sting a little. It might feel like someone is snapping a rubber band on you.

Pre-Treatment Instructions:

• Tretinoin and topical retinoids, e.g., Retin-A®, Renova®, and exfoliating products. Although used in the area to be treated is not absolutely contraindicated, it is known to make skin more sensitive and prone to exfoliation. Candidates for treatment should be advised to discontinue the use of exfoliating creams
  and other exfoliating products two (2) weeks prior to and during the entire treatment course.
• Unprotected sun exposure or use of tanning beds or creams in areas to be treated. Protected sun exposure means wearing protective clothing and the daily use of an SPF-30 or greater sunscreen. Those being treated should be advised to discontinue indoor and outdoor tanning at least four (4) weeks prior to treatment, during the treatment course, and four to six (4 to 6) weeks after treatment. This will reduce the chance of skin color changes and the manifestation of new pigmented lesions.
• Pigmented lesions. If treating over a pigmented lesion, the lesion must be diagnosed as benign by a qualified practitioner prior to treatment with a Laser System. Inaccurate diagnosis and inadvertent treatment of skin cancer may lead to a delay in the client receiving proper medical care.
• Allergies. Ensure that client is not allergic to medications, latex, or other substances that may be used during the treatment course.
• Medications. Review both prescriptions and non-prescription. Be sure to include herbal and natural remedies as some of these may cause photosensitivity. For persons taking photosensitizing medication,
  perform test spots at least 24 hours before treatment.
• Herpes I or II within the treatment area. Before a treatment, candidates should consult their primary care physician for medical evaluation and possible prophylaxis to minimize the chance of a herpetic breakout. A small percentage of persons may experience an activation of oral herpes simplex virus infection within five to ten (5-10) days after the procedure, even with appropriate prophylaxis.
• Heat Urticaria. Persons with a history of heat urticaria may develop hives with exposure to laser pulses.
• Botulinums: There is the possibility for increased diffusion of Botulinums, such as Botox®, as a result of edema associated with facial light-based treatment, which may result in facial asymmetry when these procedures are performed at the same visit. Many physicians recommend waiting for a minimum of 10 days after a Botox injection before performing facial laser treatments
• Other Conditions. History of vitiligo, eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis, autoimmune diseases, or any diseases affecting collagen including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, scleroderma, and other skin conditions may affect a person’s response to treatment.

Post-Treatment Instructions:

What Recovery Looks Like

It may feel like you have a sunburn for 4-6 hours after you’re finished. Ice packs or a cool washcloth can help you feel better.

Your skin may be red or bruised for a day or two. Some of your brown spots may get darker, but they should peel off within a few weeks.

While you heal:

• Don’t put on makeup 
• Avoid alcohol.
• Change your pillowcase and hand towel.
• Clean your sun and eye glasses. 
• Elevate your head at least 1 inch above your heart
• Use your humidifier daily/nightly
• Use a gel ice pack
• Use moisturizing lotion.
• Protect yourself with sunscreen. Make sure it has an SPF of at least 30 and a physical blocker like zinc. Reapply it every 2 hours, no matter what. 
• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
• Your master esthetician can tell you when it’s safe to return to your normal skin care routine. It might take a week.

Most people get between three and seven sessions. It depends on the condition you’re treating. You’ll wait 2-4 weeks between each visit. It may take several weeks for you to notice any changes in your skin.

• Application of Cool Roller™ or cool gel packs immediately following treatment can help alleviate itchiness and stinging that may occur after treatment.
• Once the skin has cooled down, an ointment or gel may be used to cover the treated skin and keep it moist to avoid the skin drying out and being crusty and desquamated. NOTE: The ointment or gels may exacerbate acne breakouts.
• Gentle cleansing is permitted after treatment. At the provider’s discretion, the use of non-irritating cosmetics may be considered based on the level of treatment performed, and tissue response.
• Clients should avoid heavy makeup or moisturizers for 24 hours after treatment.
• Treated areas should not be picked or scrubbed.
• As healing occurs, it is essential to avoid injury and sun exposure for at least two (2) weeks following treatments. It is highly recommended that clients use a sunscreen designed for sensitive skin with SPF 30 or higher containing UVA/UVB protection between treatments.
• Those being treated should also continue to use SPF 30 or higher up to 6 months following final treatment whenever they are outside.
• Avoid excessive exercise for one to three (1 – 3) days after treatment.
• Once the treatment area has healed, some itching or dryness may occur. This will gradually clear. The use of non-irritating, non-comedogenic moisturizers may provide some relief.
• Advise the person being treated to contact the treatment provider if there are any issues or concerns following the treatment.

You should expect to feel a warm/sunburn sensation for a day or two. A thin layer of medical grade occlusive should be used on the treated area as directed by your healthcare professional. Keep the area hydrated at all times. The more moisture = the better the healing process will be. Do not let the skin dry out. Avoid touching or cleaning the area for 24 hours Skin should feel rough & gritty like sandpaper for 3-4 days post treatment but no extreme peeling like traditional treatments Avoid sun exposure, intense workouts and sweating NONE! Nothing should prevent you from returning to your normal daily activities. Anticipated Downtime: Can be applied gently 24-48 hours post treatment Such as a tinted moisturizer or a tinted sunscreen Makeup: Your medical provider will advise you on the best aftercare products following treatment. Let your skin breathe for the first 4-6 hours after treatment, then apply medical grade occlusive that night. Discontinue use of all retinols for 2 weeks. Cleanse “GENTLY” after 24 hours following treatment. A gentle recommended medical grade exfoliator may be used 5 days post treatment

Pre-Treatment Instructions:

• Avoid sun exposure 2 weeks pre and post-treatment
• Avoid alcohol consumption for 72hrs prior to your appointment
• Avoid Tretinoin and topical retinoids, e.g., Retin-A®, Renova®, and exfoliating products. Although used in the area to be treated is not absolutely contraindicated, it is known to make skin more sensitive and prone to exfoliation two (2) weeks prior to and during the entire treatment course.
• Unprotected sun exposure or use of tanning beds or creams in areas to be treated. Protected sun exposure means wearing protective clothing and the daily use of an SPF-30 or greater sunscreen. Those being treated should be advised to discontinue indoor and outdoor tanning at least four (4) weeks prior
  to treatment, during the treatment course, and four to six (4 to 6) weeks after treatment. This will reduce the chance of skin color changes and the manifestation of new pigmented lesions.
• Pigmented lesions. If treating over a pigmented lesion, the lesion must be diagnosed as benign by a dermatologist prior to treatment with a laser
• Heat Urticaria. Persons with a history of heat urticaria may develop hives with exposure to laser pulses.
• Other Conditions. History of vitiligo, eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis, autoimmune diseases, or any diseases affecting collagen including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, scleroderma, and other skin conditions may affect a person’s response to treatment.

Post-Treatment Instructions:

• Application of cool gel packs immediately following treatment can help alleviate itchiness and stinging that may occur after treatment.
• Once the skin has cooled down, an ointment or gel may be used to cover the treated skin and keep it moist to avoid the skin drying out and being crusty and desquamated. NOTE: The ointment or gels may exacerbate acne breakouts.
• Gentle cleansing is permitted after treatment. At the provider’s discretion, the use of non-irritating cosmetics may be considered based on the level of treatment performed, and tissue response.
• Clients should avoid heavy makeup or moisturizers for 24 hours after treatment.
• Treated areas should not be picked or scrubbed.
• As healing occurs, it is essential to avoid injury and sun exposure for at least two (2) weeks following treatments. It is highly recommended that clients use a sunscreen designed for sensitive skin with SPF 30 or higher containing UVA/UVB protection between treatments.
• Those being treated should also continue to use SPF 30 or higher up to 6 months following final treatment whenever they are outside.
• Avoid excessive exercise for one to three (1 – 3) days after treatment.
• Once the treatment area has healed, some itching or dryness may occur. This will gradually clear. The use of non-irritating, non-comedogenic moisturizers may provide some relief.
• Advise the person being treated to contact the treatment provider if there are any issues or concerns following the treatment.

Laser Hair Reduction Pre-Treatment Instructions

• Medications. Review both prescription and non-prescription medications. Be sure to list herbal and natural remedies as some of these may cause photosensitivity. For those taking photosensitizing medication, perform test spots 24 hours up to one week before considering treatment.
• Clients who are currently taking blood-thinning medications or anticoagulants should be treated with caution. The client should discontinue the use of these medications if determined to be safe to do so by their prescribing physician. With discontinued use of the medication at least 2 weeks prior to and throughout the treatment course.
• Blood Disorders. Clients with conditions or taking medications that alter the ability of the blood to coagulate should be treated with caution after consultation with their managing physician.
• Tretinoin and topical retinoids, e.g., Retin-A®, Renova®, and exfoliating products. Although use in the area to be treated is not absolutely contraindicated, it is known to make skin more sensitive and prone to exfoliation. It is advised to discontinue the use of retinoid creams and other exfoliating products two weeks prior to and during the entire treatment course. Please refer to your master esthetician for guidance on your retinoid treatment throughout the course of your hair reduction sessions. 
• Heat Urticaria. Those with a history of heat urticaria may develop hives with exposure to light pulses. 
• Herpes I or II within the treatment area. Before a treatment, candidates should consult their primary care physician for medical evaluation and possible prophylaxis to minimize the chance of a herpetic breakout. A small percentage of persons may experience an activation of oral herpes simplex virus infection within 5-10 days after the procedure, even with appropriate prophylaxis.
• Botulinums: There is the possibility for increased diffusion of Botulinums, such as Botox®, as a result of edema associated with facial light-based treatment, which may result in facial asymmetry when these procedures are performed at the same visit. Many physicians recommend waiting for a minimum of 2 weeks after a Botox injection before performing facial light-based treatments. Cynosure has conducted no clinical trials and cannot recommend any specific waiting time.
• Diabetes. Those to be treated should obtain clearance from their primary care physician before proceeding.
• Pigmented Lesions. If treating over a pigmented lesion, the lesion must be diagnosed as benign by a qualified practitioner prior to treatment. Inaccurate diagnosis and inadvertent treatment of skin cancer may lead to a delay in the person receiving proper medical care.
• Unprotected sun exposure or use of tanning beds or creams in areas to be treated. Protected sun exposure means wearing protective clothing and the daily use and reapplication of an SPF-30 or greater sunscreen. Those being treated should be advised to discontinue indoor and outdoor tanning at least four (4) weeks prior to treatment, during the treatment course, and four to six (4 to 6) weeks after treatment. This will reduce the chance of skin color changes and the manifestation of new pigmented lesions.
• Menstrual dysfunction/Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Those with menstrual dysfunction, such as PCOS and/or ovarian hyperandrogenism, may have unpredictable results. These subjects tend to have hirsutism secondary to their disease and should consult a primary care physician before a light-based treatment.
• Mechanical epilation. Advise hair removal clients to avoid any mechanical epilation such as waxing, tweezing, electrolysis, etc., during the treatment course.
• Other Conditions. History of vitiligo, eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis, autoimmune diseases, or any diseases affecting collagen including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and scleroderma may affect response to treatment
• Risk of paradoxical hair growth. This can occur in people of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean descent and those who have an ill-defined hairline with no obvious transition of the hairline to the face. These clients are at high risk for hair stimulation and should be advised of this phenomenon before treatment.

Pre-Treatment Instructions:

• It is best to shave the night before, because the hair needs to be as close to the skin as possible to avoid discomfort. Ensure that a through shave has been done, as any hairs on the surface of the skin will be targeted by the laser which increases pain and risk of burns. 
• We recommend coming to your appointment with loose fitting, comfortable clothing. 

Post-Treatment Instructions:

• A mild sunburn-like sensation is expected. This usually lasts two to twenty-four (2-24) hours but can persist up to seventy-two (72) hours. Mild swelling and redness may accompany this, but it usually resolves in two to three (2-3) days.
• Apply cooling to the treatment area for ten to fifteen (10-15) minutes every hour for the next four hours, as needed. An oral, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen such as Advil®) or an analgesic (acetaminophen such as Tylenol®) may be taken to 
• Until redness has resolved, it is recommended to avoid the following:
• Bathe or shower as usual. Treated areas may be temperature-sensitive.
• The appearance of hair growth or stubble will continue for seven to thirty (7-30) days post-treatment. This is not new hair growth, but treated hairs being expelled from the skin.
• Hairs that were in the resting phase (telogen) at the time of treatment may enter the active growing phase (anagen) in one to six (1-6) months, depending on the body area. Follow-up treatment may be needed.
• If any darkened lesions occur, advise persons being treated not to pick or pull at darkened lesions as scarring may occur.

How to Prepare for Waxing Services:

• Refrain from taking a shower immediately before the treatment. Soaking the hair will soften it, allowing it to break more easily, making waxing less effective.
• Make sure the hair is the appropriate length for waxing. Typically this is 4-6 weeks after your last tweeze/wax.
• We recommend coming in with clean, makeup free skin. 
• There are certain medications and products that should be avoided in the area that will be waxed before your appointment. This includes topical exfoliants such as Retin-A, Renova, chemical peels, and hydroquinone, oral acne medications such as Accutane, blood-thinning medications, and topical/oral cortisone. These make the skin more sensitive and increase the likelihood of lifting, irritation or other complications. Please check with your doctor if you are unsure whether you should be waxed while on or using a medication.

Will I Get Ingrown Hairs?

It is possible, but can often be avoided with proper care.

Waxing removes the entire hair, root and all, from the follicle. Your skin naturally hardens and thickens over the area that was waxed so it is important to keep that area gently exfoliated. Use a gentle scrub in that area about 2 days after waxing and continue to exfoliate 1 to 2 times a week thereafter.

The bikini, lip, and underarms are where we tend to perspire the most. Perspiration and moisture cause bacteria to grow. Once that area has been waxed, the follicle is wide open to this bacteria creeping in.

Try to avoid heavy exercise that will increase perspiration for about 24-48 hours after waxing.

For the next 24-48 hours avoid the following on the waxed areas to prevent ingrown hairs:

• Use of exfoliating products (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) products, loofahs, scrubs, etc.)
• Direct sun exposure and tanning beds
• Creams with fragrance or ingredients that may irritate
• Excessive heat, such as hot tubs and saunas. Warm showers are okay.
• Exercising, if it may cause sweating
• Touching the freshly waxed area: this encourages irritation and increases bacteria
• Apply an SPF 30 or greater sunscreen to any exposed treatment areas. Since waxing exfoliates as well as removing hair, your skin will be more prone to sunburn in the days following your treatment.

Lash Lift, Tint & Brow Lamination Preparation:

• Please come to your appointment with no eye/brow makeup on.
• For best results, remain mascara-free for 24 hours before your treatment.
• If you wear contacts, please remove them prior to your lash lift/tint.
• Although reactions are extremely rare, please schedule a patch test a minimum of 24 hours before your treatment if you are concerned about allergies/irritation.
• There are certain medications and products that should be avoided in the area that will be waxed before your brow lamination appointment. This includes topical exfoliants such as Retin-A, Renova, chemical peels, and hydroquinone, oral acne medications such as Accutane, blood-thinning medications, and topical/oral cortisone. These make the skin more sensitive and increase the likelihood of lifting, irritation, or other complications. Please check with your doctor if you are unsure whether you should be waxed while on or using a medication.

Lash Lift & Brow Lamination Aftercare:

• For the first 24-48 hours, you should treat your brows or lashes with care; avoid getting them wet, and avoid steam baths and saunas. We also recommend that you avoid applying pressure, especially sleeping on them for the first 24-48 hrs. Sleeping on your back is ideal to avoid altering the result of your lamination or lift. After this time, you can treat them normally by simply brushing them into place every morning and after cleansing with a spoolie.