Pre-Treatment Guidelines:

  • 3 Months Prior: Discontinue Accutane or Roaccutane.

  • 2–4 Weeks Prior: Avoid tanning or prolonged sun exposure (also applies post-treatment).

  • 7 Days Prior:

    • Avoid NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aleve, Naproxen, Aspirin). Tylenol (Acetaminophen) is safe to take.

    • Stop taking herbal supplements (St. John’s Wort, Garlic, Vitamin E, Ginkgo, etc.). Biotin-based supplements do NOT need to be discontinued.

  • 5 Days Prior: Discontinue Retinols / Retinoids.

  • 24 Hours Prior: Do not dye your hair.

  • Day Before & Day Of: Drink plenty of fluids and stay well-hydrated.

Post-Treatment Guidelines:

  • First 24 Hours: Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol intake.

  • First 48 Hours:

    • Avoid wearing makeup in the treated area.

    • Avoid swimming (due to chlorine) or environmental chemical exposure.

  • 3–4 Days: Avoid scratching or vigorous rubbing. Gently "pat" with a wet/moist cloth if needed.

  • 48–72 Hours:

    • Avoid overheating skin (very hot baths/showers, sauna, direct heat, strenuous exercise).

    • Sleep on your back with your head elevated to minimize swelling.

  • Hydration: Increase fluid intake per provider instructions.

  • Contact Provider Immediately If You Notice:

    • Redness or pain that worsens over time (normal sensation is a mild-to-moderate sunburn for 48 hours).

    • Blisters, open sores, or any drainage.

    • Swelling that does not start improving by Day 2, or is severe enough to interfere with daily activities.