Pre-Treatment Care

• Avoid retinoids, tretinoin, AHA/BHA products, or other exfoliating agents for at least 5–7 days before treatment.
• Understand the contraindications to getting this peel include:pPregnancy, breastfeeding, immune disorders such as Lupus, inflamed skin with open wounds, Accutane use in the last 6 months, active cold sores or herpes on the face, liver conditions, chemotherapy or radiation in the last 6 months.
• Expect to see some skin shedding between days 2-7. Your skin will peel the amount that it needs to. DO NOT PULL ON PEELING SKIN. WASH FACE GENTLY.
  

Post-Treatment Care

Peeling

• Safe products to use during peeling: gentle cleanser (cetaphil, CeraVe), mineral based SPF 50+, gentle moisturizers and/or aquaphor
• While the skin is exfoliating avoid pulling, picking, rubbing, and any premature removal of skin. This could lead to significant irritation and possible hyperpigmentation. Never force or peel the skin off in sheets. 
• When peeling, make sure to keep your body hydrated and your skin moisturized.
• If you are excessively dry or irritated when peeling, add a light layer of Aquaphor to provide a protective barrier

Resuming Skin Care Products

• Non-Actives: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided, usually day 6-7.
• Actives (retinol, glycolic acid, vitamin C): Can be resumed once peeling has subsided and sensitivity has returned to normal, usually day 7-10.

Sun Exposure

• The BioRePeel is not sun sensitive, but it is wise to wear a mineral based sunblock daily to ensure optimal results

Scheduling the Next BioRePeel

• 4-6 peels are recommended for best results and these should be scheduled 7-10 days apart
• Additional Skincare Treatments: It is recommended to wait for a minimum of 2 weeks before any treatment that induces exfoliation of the skin ( facials, extractions, waxing, and threading).

One Week Prior

• Avoid blood-thinning over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, and Aleve. Avoid supplements, including St. John’s Wort, Gingko Biloba, primrose oil, garlic, ginseng, and Vitamin E.
• If you are on a medically indicated blood thinner stay on it, but consult with your provider ahead of time or day of the procedure

2 Days Prior to Injections

• Do start taking Arnica two days prior to the procedure. (This is not required, but it will help to lessen bruising.) Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Day of procedure

• Do not drink alcoholic beverages prior.
• Arrive with a clean face, please wash your face prior to your appointment

General Recommendations

• If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to another eruption of cold sores. Please start your antiviral medication 1-3 days prior to your injection and let your physician assistant know if you are prone.

POST INSTRUCTIONS

• Bruising at the treatment site is common.
• Temporary, minimal to moderate swelling may be expected related to the area/s treated and the product/s used
• It may be normal to experience some tenderness at the treatment site that can last for a few hours or, at times, a couple of days.

• It may be normal to feel “firmness” in your treated area/s for the first few days after treatment.  Over time, the area/s will soften and “settle”.
• Apply cool compresses to the area/s treated (avoiding pressure) for swelling/soreness.
• You may begin wearing makeup once you have adequately cooled/iced the area/s, and any pinpoint bleeding from the injection site/s has subsided.
• DO NOT RUB OR MASSAGE the treated area/s today. When cleansing your face or applying make-up, use gentle, sweeping motions to avoid excessive mobility of the area/s.
• AVOID strenuous exercise, extreme heat such as saunas/hot tubs or strenuous activity for the remainder of the treatment day.  You may resume other normal activities/routines immediately.
• You may take acetaminophen/Tylenol if you experience any mild tenderness or discomfort. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen products, vitamin E, and fish oil, as they may increase your potential to bruise.
• AVOID drinking alcohol for a minimum of 12 hours as this may contribute to bruising.
• AVOID extended UV exposure until any redness has subsided. Apply an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to the treated area/s. 
• Wait a minimum of 6 weeks before receiving any laser treatments and 1 week before skincare treatments.
• If you experience increasing pain or pain that won’t go away, grey, white or purple discoloration, or scabs near the treatment area immediately contact Cassie at 770-639-1515. If you do not get a prompt response go to the emergency room or other qualified medical provider such as a plastic surgeon or cosmetic dermatologist. 

PLEASE CONTACT US IMMEDIATELY (804-256-5115) IF YOU:

• Have severe or increasing pain
• Have fever and/or chills
• Have discolored blotches in areas not injected
• Have blanching of injected areas
• Notice the area appears red and/or hot to the touch
• Scabbing at the area
• Sluggish or absent blood flow to the areas injected or surrounding areas

Pre Treatment Care

• 7 days prior to your treatment, discontinue any harsh skincare agents like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and vitamin c. 
• 4 days prior, begin taking Tagamet and Zyrtec. These medications help to reduce possible histamine reaction, and should lessen potential swelling.
• If prescribed, take the full course of any antiviral or antibiotic medications. Please call us if you have any side effects.

Post Treatment Care

• The treated area will be red, swollen and tender. The swelling and pain usually last for 1-4 days. The skin may ooze for approximately 2-4 days. Mild redness and/or dryness may last for a couple of weeks. As the treated area is very delicate, proper wound care is essential for the best possible result.

Swelling

• Swelling is expected during the first 24 to 48 hours, especially around the eyes. 
• We suggest you begin taking Zyrtec and Tagamet 4 days prior to treatment, and continue for 4 days following treatment. These medications will minimize a histamine reaction, and will help to control swelling.
• You may apply cold compresses in the hours and days following treatment. Be sure to use a clean cloth each time you do this. 
• To protect the face and decrease swelling it is best to sleep on your back with your head elevated. 

 Skin Protection

• The basic principle is to keep the skin as moist as possible at all times to ensure proper healing. For these first 3 days, you will want to liberally apply and regularly re-apply Aquaphor in order to keep the skin hydrated. Any crusting you develop should NOT be “picked off.” Crusts should be thoroughly soaked and gently rubbed off with a moist gauze pad as detailed below.
• You will need to apply SPF 45+ from days 3 – 14 (if there are areas of open skin, please contact us so we may guide you appropriately). This will protect your healing skin and lower the risk of hyperpigmentation of the treatment area. 

Discomfort

• Should you experience any pain, discomfort, or stinging within the first 3 days, you may take Tylenol (acetaminophen). Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen. If pain persists or worsens please let us know.

Days 1-3

• You may cleanse with a gentle cleanser as needed starting the morning after treatment.
• It is very important to keep the skin covered with a generous layer of Aquaphor ointment at all times during this phase of healing.
• You may do a white vinegar soak to assist in reducing discomfort, minimize microbial activity, and break down some of the sloughing tissue. You will want to mix 1 teaspoon or less of white vinegar in 1 cup of water. You will soak gauze in this solution, apply it directly to the treatment area, and rinse your face 5-15 minutes after application. You may repeat this up to 4 times daily. Reapply aquaphor following rinsing off this solution. 
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure (any duration more than 5 minutes), as this can cause further inflammation to the healing tissue and lead to hyperpigmentation of the treatment area. 
• Do not use any harsh products like retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or vitamin C. 

Day 3-14

• After cleansing your face in the morning, apply sunscreen (mineral based, SPF 45+). Be sure you reapply every 2-3 hours. You can continue to use Aquaphor on the healing tissue, but you may also switch to a lighter moisturizer such as Cetaphil or Cerave Cream. 
• Continue to avoid harsh products like retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid,  benzoyl peroxide, or vitamin C. 

Things to Consider

• A pink or red appearance is normal and reflects the healing process. It may take a few weeks for this to fully resolve.
• After approval of your clinician, you may start wearing make-up 5 – 7 days after the treatment. It is important to remove the make-up very gently with a mild cleansing agent (we recommend Cetaphil Cleansing Lotion – over the counter). Please avoid scrubbing your skin.
• If there are any unusual symptoms or signs suggesting infection (fever, increased swelling, blistering or increased redness in an area) please contact our office.
• Avoid swimming, hot tubs and strenuous exercise for 7+ days 
• Itching can occur in the first three weeks after treatment. Most people find relief with cool compresses (small towel soaked in cold water placed on the skin for 15 minutes as needed). If itching persists, over the counter Benadryl (25mg) taken at bedtime can be helpful. If these relief efforts are not successful, please notify us so that we can assist you. 

PREPARATION

• • NSAIDs, blood thinners, steroids, etc. should be stopped 1 week prior to treatment, if possible.
  • Avoid Gingko, Garlic, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Flax Oil, Curcumin and other anti-inflammatory nutrients for 1 week prior.
  • Alcohol and cigarettes should be avoided for 3-5 days prior, as it may increase your risk of bruising and bleeding.
  • It is ok to color your hair up to 7 days prior to the procedure. 
• Wash your hair and scalp the day of or before treatment and arrive with no hair products, such as hair spray, dry shampoo, or styling gel, etc. 

POST TREATMENT

• Treat the scalp gently over the next several days. Mild inflammation, peeling, redness, itching, swelling, scabbing, and/or bruising can be expected for a few days post treatment. 
• Avoid washing your hair for at least 2 hours post procedure, preferably 24 hours. After this time, keep the area clean. 
• Avoid any hair dyes and harsh chemicals for 3-5 days post treatment. 
• Avoid wearing a hat for at least 24 hours to reduce the chance of infection.
• Avoid vigorous exercise, sun or heat exposure, saunas, steam rooms, or swimming for at least 2 days after treatment.
• Avoid NSAIDs for 7 days post treatment. Tylenol is okay to use if experiencing soreness. 
• Avoid applying ice to the injected area, as this can interfere with the new cells being activated. 
• Continue increased water intake the first week after your treatment. 

If using a topical hair regrowth prescription, you may begin applying this same day as your treatment. If you experience any irritation, gently rinse off and wait 24 hours before applying again.  

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

• • 6 weeks prior
    • Do not use nair, pluck or wax 6 weeks before your first treatment or between treatments. The before mentioned treatments remove the hair from the follicle, making the laser hair removal treatments ineffective
  • 4 weeks prior
    • It is imperative that you avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning beds and sunless tanners for 4 weeks prior to your treatment. This is a must and no exceptions will be made. The laser works by targeting the pigment in your hair and can become confused when there is an increase in pigment in the skin. Presence of a tan, including sunless tanner, can lead to burns and scarring. Be sure you protect your skin from the sun daily with SPF 45+ 
    • No invasive treatments to the treatment area within 4 weeks of your treatment (tattooing, microneedling, chemical peels)
  • 1 week prior 
    • Stop retinol, salicylic acid and glycolic acid 7 days prior to treatment

• 24 hours prior
• • Shave the area 24 hours prior to treatment. If the hairs are too long, the energy of the laser can be lost, making the treatment less effective. 
• Inform our providers if have taken Accutane (oral acne medication) in the past 6 months
• Inform our providers if you have taken antibiotics in the last 2 weeks

WHAT TO DO AFTER YOUR TREATMENT

• Expect your skin to appear pink (resembling a mild sunburn) for a few hours after treatment
• Avoid activities that will trap heat in the area for a minimum of 24 hours. This includes but is not limited to exercise, saunas, steam rooms and hot showers
• Use mild cleansers and moisturizers
• Avoid harsh topical products such as retinol, salicylic acid and glycolic acid for 5 days 
• Avoid direct sunlight on the treatment area and use a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen of SPF 45+ for at least 4 weeks after your treatment. Failure to protect the treatment area from the sun can lead to inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 

WHAT TO EXPECT

• You may experience some swelling of the follicle. This looks like small bumps in the treatment area
• A conservative amount of hair will be eliminated with each treatment, which is why a series of treatments is necessary. This is due to the fact that hairs grow in phases, and we cannot be sure which hairs are in which phase at a given time. 
• It will take a minimum of 6 treatments to achieve 85-95% reduction of hair in the treatment area. Expect a few additional treatments if you have a diagnosis of PCOS or very fine, resistant hairs. 
• Maintenance will likely be required over time. We can reduce the hairs you have, but cannot stop the process of new hair creation. New hair growth is largely influenced by hormones, so you may see shifts if you start or stop hormone treatments, including birth control, and after pregnancy. Frequency of touch up treatments will vary. 
• Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin color) can occur in some skin types. Please call us if you experience this uncommon reaction.

TOUCH UPS

• We can reduce the number of follicles present, but cannot stop you from creating new ones with time. The rate at which individuals will need touch up treatments varies for several reasons, including gender, hair density, hormonal fluctuations, and more.
• Following your package of 6 treatments, we offer 2 complimentary treatments that must be used within 1 year of completion of the series. For all future touch ups, you may purchase single sessions at 50% of the current single session cost. Please be aware that this touch up policy applies only to areas in which you have completed a full series. 

PREPARATION:

• Avoid any chemical peels, laser treatments, or other invasive procedures in treatment area for 4 weeks prior to treatment
• Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
• Avoid the use of Retin-A/retinols and other irritating skincare products (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C serum) to the treatment area for 5 days prior

POST TREATMENT:

• Treat skin gently over the next several days and cleanse with a gentle cleanser and moisturizer.
• Avoid the use of Retin-A/retinols and other irritating skincare products (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C serum) to the treatment area for 5 days following treatment. 
• AVOID strenuous exercise, extreme heat such as saunas/hot tubs or strenuous activity for a minimum of 48 hours following treatment.  You may resume other normal activities/routines immediately. 
• Avoid sun exposure and use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen (SPF 45+) to prevent excess irritation
• You may use cold compresses and/or ice packs to reduce the feeling of lingering heat
• You may take acetaminophen/Tylenol if you experience any mild tenderness or discomfort
• Notify the clinic of any concerns (excessive redness/swelling, etc…)
• If leg vessels were treated, compression stockings, socks or hose can be useful in preventing the vessels from reperfusing, rendering treatment ineffective. Be sure to limit exercise for at least 72 hours and activities that would bring additional blood flow to the legs for se

EXPECTATIONS

• Pigmented lesions may appear darker in color for up 2-4 weeks 
• Treated vessels may disappear completely, coagulate (black or purple), appear red around borders, or appear blurred in the days to weeks after treatment. All of these responses are normal
• Roughness and a sandpaper-like feeling can be normal with the use of some wavelengths

PREPARATION:

• Avoid chemical peels, laser treatments, or other invasive procedures to the treatment area for 4 weeks prior 
• Avoid sun exposure & sunless tanner to the treatment area for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
• Avoid the use of Retin-A/retinols and other irritating skincare products (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C serum) to the treatment area for 7 days prior.
• Prepare for 3-10 days of visible downtime- redness, swelling, a grid-like appearance, darkened pigment, rough/sand-paper texture. 
• Notify us if you have recently taken light sensitizing medications, such as doxycycline, tetracycline and accutane
• Take 1 Zyrtec/Allegra/Claritin (morning) and 2 Pepcid/Tagamet  (one morning and one night) starting 48 hours prior to treatment. This can help reduce swelling.
• Take prophylactic antibiotics (azithromycin or doxycycline) and antivirals (valacyclovir) as directed
• Drink plenty of water before treatment and during recovery, as this can improve results and help with recovery.

LIST OF ITEMS TO PURCHASE:

• Cetaphil or CeraVe gentle face wash
• CeraVe or Cetaphil moisturizing cream 
• SPF 50+ mineral-based sunblock
• Histamine 1 (Zyrtec/Cetirizine, Allegra/Fexofenadine, Claritin/Loratidine) and Histamine 2 blockers (Pepcid/Famotidine, Tagamet/Cimetidine) 

ITEMS TO BE PROVIDED TO YOU BY CASSIE LANE:

• Square gauze for vinegar soaks
• Spray bottle with vinegar solution
• Aquaphor
• Lorenol post treatment balm
• Acetaminophen x2
• Hydrocortisone 1% packets

THINGS TO AVOID AFTER TREATMENT

• Exercise & strenuous activity – 72 hours 
• Hot environments- saunas, hot showers, hot tubs, steam room – 72 hours 
• Sun- wear a protective hat and SPF 50+ for a minimum of 4 weeks 
• Treated skin touching any dirty environment- think tough mudder races, pond swimming, bathtub water-2 weeks
• Retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide- 2 weeks 
• Chemical peels, microdermabrasion, other invasive skin treatments- 3 months 

PRO TIPS

• Apply cleanser and aftercare products to the face by patting, instead of rubbing, as rubbing can cause discomfort. 
• Apply mineral based sunblock any time you are leaving the house and will be exposed to sun. Apply by blotting. 
• Vinegar solution-  You may soak the provided gauze in this solution and apply the gauze to the treatment are or you can spray the solution directly on the skin. Be sure you blot your eyes with a dry cloth before you open them, if you choose to spray it directly on the face, as the vinegar can cause stinging and irritation of the eyes.  Leave the solution on the face for a minimum of 10 minutes. If you are creating your own solution at home- 2 tablespoons of white vinegar to 1 cup of cool to room temperature water. This is an important step to reduce the chances of infection, as vinegar has antimicrobial properties, as well as helps to dissolve some of the ablated skin that needs to exfoliate. 
• Do your best to sleep on your back, so as to avoid the treatment area rubbing on your pillow throughout the night, and causing inflammation

Day 1 (day of treatment)

• Immediately after treatment- Cold compress once per hour for 3-4 hours.
• No need to cleanse the treatment area on the day of treatment. You may begin washing with a gentle cleanser twice daily (morning and night), the morning after treatment (day 2). Be sure you do this with cool water
• You may apply Lorenol post treatment balm to the treatment areas as often as you like. Aquaphor can trap heat in the early hours after treatment, so we will avoid this product until the morning of day 2.
• Take 1 cetirizine (every 24 hours) and 2 famotidine tablet (every 12 hours). These are to help reduce swelling.
• You may take Tylenol as needed for discomfort.

Days 2–3

• Cold compresses as needed to aid in reduction of swelling
• Cleanse with a gentle cleanser once or twice daily. We advise patting this onto the skin and splash cleanser off of skin with room temperature or cool water.
• Apply Aquaphor around the clock. When you feel the last layer of Aquaphor has dried out, apply the vinegar rinse to the skin and leave on for a minimum of 10 minutes before you rinse it off. Apply another layer of Aquaphor after finishing the vinegar rinse and repeat this process at least morning, afternoon and night.
• Take 1 cetirizine (every 24 hours) and 2 famotidine tablet (every 12 hours). These are to help reduce swelling.
• You may take Tylenol as needed for discomfort.

Days 4-7

• Cold compresses as needed to aid in reduction of swelling
• Cleanse with a gentle cleanser once or twice daily. We advise patting this onto the skin and splash cleanser off of skin with room temperature or cool water.
• You may begin alternating between Aquaphor and Lorenol post treatment balm. You can also begin wearing mineral based makeup or tinted sunblock, if necessary. Continue with vinegar rinses at least three times daily.
• You may take Tylenol as needed for discomfort.

Days 7-14

• Cleanse with a gentle cleanser once or twice daily. We advise patting this onto the skin and splash cleanser off of skin with room temperature or cool water.
• It is acceptable to switch to an alternative gentle moisturizing cream, like CeraVe or Cetaphil. Continue to use Lorenol post treatment balm until the product is completely gone.
• You may take Tylenol as needed for discomfort.

PREPARATION

• Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
• Avoid any chemical peels, laser treatments, or other invasive procedures in treatment area for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment
• Do not use any topical agents that may increase the sensitivity of your skin, such as retinols, exfoliants, topical antibiotics or acids, 5-7 days prior to your treatment. 
• Do not take anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, Motrin, or Advil, for at least 3 days prior to your microneedling session, as these will interfere with the natural inflammatory process that is critical for your skin rejuvenation. 
• Blood thinners should be stopped 1 week prior to treatment, if able, as bruising is a common side effect of microneedling. 
• No waxing, depilatory creams, or electrolysis to the area being treated for 5-7 days prior. 
• Excessive hair in treatment area should be shaved the day prior to your procedure (not the same day as treatment)
  • Men should be clean shaven
• If you are prone to cold sores, take an antiviral agent for 2 days prior to and the day of the treatment. 

POST TREATMENT

• Treat skin gently over the next several days and cleanse with a gentle cleanser.
• Wait at least 4 hours before washing face or applying soap, cream or makeup to the treatment area
• Avoid sun exposure and use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen (SPF 45+) to prevent further sun damage and reduce risk of post-treatment hyperpigmentation
• Avoid heat – hot tubs, saunas, etc. for 1-2 days
• Avoid skin irritants (examples below) a few days before and after treatment
  • Products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, vitamin C/ascorbic acid, astringents, etc.
• Bruising, redness and swelling may occur and will resolve with time. This is very common and is usually diffused within a few hours or up to 24 hours after treatment
  • More aggressive treatments or use of irritants in the days prior to or after treatment can lead to longer downtime
  • Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications for one week after the procedure. Use a painkiller, such as Tylenol, if you experience any soreness. 
  • Do not use ice on your face , and avoid using arnica/bromelain. These may interfere with the natural inflammatory process that is critical for your skin rejuvenation. 
• Skin dryness is common for up to 7 days. We recommend gentle moisturizer and avoiding any topical exfoliants until skin has healed. 

Notify the clinic of any concerns (blistering, excessive redness/swelling, etc.)

Pre-Treatment Care

• Medications & Supplements
  • Avoid blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.), fish oil, vitamin E, and alcohol for 3–5 days prior (unless prescribed by your physician). Notify your provider if you are on prescription blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.
• Skin Preparation
  • Do not schedule treatment if you have an active skin infection, rash, or cold sore in the treatment area.
  • Shave the treatment area at least 24 hours before if applicable.
• Medical Considerations
  • Inform your provider of any history of difficulty swallowing, neck surgery, or cosmetic procedures in the treatment area
  • Let us know if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning major events/photos in the next 2–3 weeks (as swelling/bruising is expected).

What to Expect:

• Swelling is the most common side effect and may last 1–2 weeks (often most noticeable in the first 3–5 days).
  Bruising, redness, numbness, firmness, or areas of hardness in the treated area are also common and usually resolve over time.
• Results develop gradually over several weeks as your body eliminates the destroyed fat cells. Full results are present at ~4 months post treatment
• It is recommended to treat 2 – 3 times for optimal outcomes

Post-Treatment Care

Do:

• Apply ice packs (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off) for the first 24–48 hours as needed for swelling/discomfort
• Sleep with your head elevated on extra pillows for the first 2 nights to help reduce swelling
• Use Tylenol (acetaminophen) for discomfort if needed 

Avoid:

❌ Vigorous exercise, alcohol, and excessive salt for 24–48 hours after treatment (may worsen swelling).
❌ Touching, pressing, or massaging the treated area.
❌ Makeup on the treated area for at least 12 hours.
❌ Laser, facial, or other cosmetic treatments in the area until cleared by your provider

Contact the office immediately if you experience: difficulty swallowing, asymmetric smile, severe pain or ulceration in the treatment area, signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, fever) – 804-256-5115

PREPARATION:

• Avoid any chemical peels, laser treatments, or other invasive procedures in treatment area for 4 weeks prior to treatment
• Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area for 2 weeks prior to treatment.

One Week Prior

• If able, avoid blood-thinning over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, and Aleve. Avoid supplements, including St. John’s Wort, Gingko Biloba, primrose oil, garlic, ginseng, and Vitamin E.
• If you are on a medically indicated blood thinner stay on it, but consult with your provider ahead of time or day of the procedure
• Avoid the use of Retin A/retinols in the undereye region for 1 week prior to treatment 

2 Days Prior to Injections

• Start taking Arnica two days prior to the procedure. (This is not required, but it will help to lessen bruising.) Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Day of procedure

• Do not drink alcoholic beverages prior or 24 hours after, to avoid excess bruising and swelling. 
• Try to arrive with a clean face, free of makeup. If needed, we will have you wash your face in the office, prior to the treatment.

POST TREATMENT:

• Treat skin gently over the next several days and cleanse with a gentle cleanser. DO NOT RUB OR MASSAGE the treated area/s today. When cleansing your face or applying make-up, use gentle, sweeping motions to avoid excessive mobility of the area/s.
• Wait at least 4 hours before washing your face or applying soap, cream or makeup to the treatment area. This allows all of your PRP to be absorbed into the skin. You may begin wearing makeup after 4 hours, but we recommend using a mineral based product and ensuring your makeup brushes are clean. 
• AVOID strenuous exercise, extreme heat such as saunas/hot tubs or strenuous activity for the remainder of the treatment day.  You may resume other normal activities/routines immediately.
• Avoid sun exposure and use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen (SPF 45+) to prevent excess irritation
• Avoid heat – hot tubs, saunas, etc. for 1-2 days
• Avoid skin irritants (examples below) a few days before and after treatment
  • Products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, vitamin C/ascorbic acid, astringents, etc.
• Bruising, redness and swelling may occur and will resolve with time. This is very common and is usually diffused within a few hours or up to 24 hours after treatment
  • More aggressive treatments or use of irritants in the days prior to or after treatment can lead to longer downtime
• It may be normal to experience some tenderness at the treatment site that can last for a few hours or, at times, a couple of days. You can apply cool compresses to the treatment area (avoiding pressure) for swelling/soreness. 
• You may take acetaminophen/Tylenol if you experience any mild tenderness or discomfort. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen products, vitamin E, and fish oil, as they may increase your potential to bruise.
• Notify the clinic of any concerns (excessive redness/swelling, etc.)
• Best results are achieved if treatment is done in a series of 3 sessions every 6-8 weeks. We also recommend an annual session for maintenance.

How Laser Tattoo Removal Works

• Each treatment breaks the ink into smaller particles, which are then naturally processed and eliminated by your body’s lymphatic system
  
• Fading happens gradually — you’ll notice more clearance over time, not immediately after a session.
  
• Treatments are typically scheduled every 6–8 weeks to allow your skin time to heal and for your body to process the ink fragments.
  
• The number of sessions depends on ink color, depth, and your skin’s healing response (average: 8–10 sessions).

The Week Before Your Treatment

To ensure your skin is in the best condition and to reduce the risk of irritation or complications:

• Avoid sun exposure and tanning (including self-tanner) on the treatment area for at least 7 days.
  
• Do not use retinols, glycolic acids, exfoliants, or bleaching creams on the area.

Immediately After Treatment

It’s normal to experience the following for a few hours to days:

• Redness and mild swelling
  
• White “frosting” or cloudiness on the tattoo
  
• Tenderness or a mild sunburn-like sensation

After Treatment

• Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24 hours.
  
• Use a cool compress to soothe swelling or discomfort.
  
• Protect from the sun — use SPF 45+

Avoid hot tubs, saunas, exercise and hot showers for 48 hours

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Come to your appointment with a clean face. Men do not shave the day of your treatment.
• Pause Retinol treatment for 5-7 days prior to peel especially if experiencing dryness or redness
• Understand the contraindications to getting this peel include: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune disorders such as Lupus, Aspirin or Phenol allergy, inflamed skin with open wounds, Accutane use in the last 6 months, active cold sores or herpes on the face, liver conditions, chemotherapy or radiation in the last 6 months.
• Expect to peel between days 2-7, may peel a little or in sheets. Your skin will peel the amount that it needs to. DO NOT PULL PEELING OR EXFOLIATE. WASH FACE GENTLY.
• You CANNOT work out, take a really hot shower, have prolonged exposure to cold or hot weather for the following 6 DAYS, plan accordingly.

General

• The first two days your skin will look a little tan, bronzed, or pink. It may also feel a bit tight before the peeling begins.
• As a general rule, treat it like a sunburn: avoid sun exposure, avoid sweating and avoid heat.
• During the peeling phase you must avoid sun exposure. Even after the peeling has subsided your new skin will be sensitive to UV light. Protect your investment and reapply your sunscreen when outdoors.
• If any products in the post-peel kit sting or irritate beyond your tolerance reach out to our office
• The amount of visible peeling you will experience varies greatly. You will peel as much as your skin needs to peel. Using the 
• Each morning apply the Post Peel Protectant and SPF 50+ Sunscreen and apply as needed throughout the day. Continue use for the 7-Day peeling process

Towelettes

• Function: The towelettes included in your post-peel kit provide additional stimulation of the skin and expedite the peeling process. 
• Use: The first towelette should be used 4 hours after your peel has been applied. DO NOT UNFOLD WIPE (USE FOLDED UP), APPLY FIRM PRESSURE WITH WIPE. LEAN YOUR HEAD BACK TO AVOID GETTING CHEMICALS IN YOUR EYES! Subsequent towelettes will be applied at intervals designated in your aftercare booklet. All towelettes should be spaced a minimum of 4 hours apart and all towelettes should be used in the first 48 hours. Depending on what time of the day your peel was done, you may be doing the “before bedtime” instructions the following morning. Reach out with questions.
• Side effects: Towelettes are not refreshing towelettes. There are active ingredients in these towelettes and therefore you may note some light stinging upon application. Some people can also experience some itching, especially on night 1 which can be remedied by applying post-peel protectant, hydrocortisone cream, or taking an oral antihistamine. You can also add Aquaphor on top of the hydrocortisone cream as needed for irritation or redness

Post-Treatment Cream

• Use the Post-Treatment repair cream after Towelette to ease itching, irritation, and peeling. It WILL NOT affect the efficacy of the peel to use this and have less visible peeling. It will make you look more presentable and feel better. May also apply Aquaphor on top. 

Peeling

• Safe products to use during peeling: VI Derm Cleanser, Post Peel Protectant, SPF 50+. (From your home you can also use a gentle cleanser, Aquaphor, and sunscreen.)
• Days 3, 4, and 5 are the typical days of peeling. By day 6 most exfoliation has subsided.
• Typically, peeling begins on the third day, starting in the peri-oral area then peeling outward. The forehead and neck will be the last areas to peel.
• The skin on the body peels slower than the face; usually starting day 4-7 and taking up to 10 days or more.
• We recommend cleansing your face prior to showering and keeping your face protected from hot water.
• When cleansing your face use your fingertips only. Avoid using washcloths or facial machine brushes during the first week.
• While the skin is exfoliating avoid pulling, picking, rubbing, and any premature removal of skin. This could lead to significant irritation and possible hyperpigmentation. Never force or peel the skin off in sheets. Use a clean/sharp pair or cuticle scissors to cut peeling skin if needed.
• When peeling make sure to keep your body hydrated and your skin moisturized.
• The Post Peel Protectant may cause slight sensitivity when first applied but it quickly subsides.
• If you are excessively dry or irritated when peeling, add a light layer of Aquaphor to provide a protective barrier

Resuming Skin Care Products

• Non-Actives: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided, usually day 6-7.
• Actives: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided and sensitivity has returned to normal, usually day 7-10.
  
  Physical Activity / Exercise 
• Refrain for 72-96 hours after peel application. Inducing excessive perspiration can lead to PIH or blistering.
  
  Scheduling the Next VI Peel
• VI Peels should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks (for best results)
• Additional Skincare Treatments: It is recommended to wait for a minimum of 2 weeks before any treatment that creates exfoliation of the skin. (Includes facials, extractions, waxing, and threading).Doing a VI Peel 4 weeks before microneedling can boost the effects of the microneedling procedure! So consider pairing these 4 weeks apart
• Consult with your practitioner for other treatment options

PREPARATION

• Avoid blood-thinning medications for a couple of days prior such as Ibuprofen, Aleve, and supplements including St. John’s Wort, Gingko Biloba, primrose oil, garlic, ginseng, and Vitamin E.
• If you are on a medically indicated blood thinner stay on it, but consult with your provider ahead of time or day of the procedure
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages on the day of the procedure.
• Arrive with a clean face, please wash your face prior to your appointment
• If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to another eruption of cold sores. Please start your anti-viral medication 3 days prior to your injection and let your physician assistant know if you are prone.
• Do not use Botox if you are pregnant, are allergic to any ingredients, or suffer from neurological disorders.

RECOVERY

• Avoid any massage or pressure to treatment area/s, as this may alter the placement of the drug.
• If you would like to reapply makeup, do so gently over the treatment area/s.
• Do not wear a hat or visor for 4 hours post-treatment, if the forehead was treated.
• Refrain from flushing/sweating and heavy exercise for 24 hours. Avoid saunas and hot tubs for 24 hours.
• Do not lie down for 4 hours following your treatment (optional).
• Contract and release the treated muscles every few minutes over the next hr. (optional).

TOUCH-UP APPOINTMENTS

• A touch-up is used to treat any residual unwanted movement that was retained from your original treatment
• 2 units of Botox are included free for a touch-up treatment. Any units above this will be regular price.
• A touch-up is only considered a touch-up (meaning not a new treatment) between 14-21 days. Botox gradually wears off over the next three months. Peak action is at the 4 week mark.