CO2
Post Treatment Information
You can shower right away after your treatment. Do not take a bath until the treated area has healed.
For the first 2 to 3 days after your treatment:
- Apply an ice pack wrapped in a soft cloth to the treated area. Hold the ice pack on the treated area for 15 to 20 minutes. Put the ice pack on the treated area every few hours, or 1 to 5 times each day. After the first 2 to 3 days, use the ice pack as needed
For __________ days after your treatment:
- Gently wash the treated area with antibacterial soap treatment area with a diluted vinegar solution (1tsp white vinegar per 8 ounces water)
- . For 1 to 2 weeks after your treatment:
- Do not use saunas, swimming pools, baths, or hot tubs or Jacuzzi.
- Do not shave over the treated area.
- Do not wear makeup on the treated area until it’s completely healed.
- Avoid exposing the treated area to the sun until it’s completely healed. If you need to be in the sun, use SPF 30 and CMT and wear clothing or a hat that protects the treated area from the sun.
- If you have a history of facial herpes (cold sores), you should take an antiviral medication before and during your treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider that treats this condition about prescribing medication for you. Tell your healthcare team if you develop any new blisters or sores before, during, and after your treatment.
It usually takes many weeks for people to notice that the treated area is healing. During this time, the area may turn a red or blackish color, and a crust may form. The crust should slowly go away 1 to 2 weeks after treatment. Don’t pick at or remove the crust. It will fall off on its own.
BBL
Post Treatment Information
- Until sensitivity has completely subsided, avoid all of the following:
Use of scented lotions or soaps, exfoliant creams (Retin-A, glycolic/salicylic and alpha- hydroxy acids), acne creams or gels, loofa sponges and aggressive scrubbing
Hot or cold water – wash with tepid water and avoid shaving the area
Swimming pools and spas with multiple chemicals/chlorine
Activities that cause excessive perspiration
- A cold compress or an ice pack can be used to provide comfort if the treated area is especially warm. This is typically only needed within the first 12 hours after the treatment.
- Your skin may appear red and swollen, especially under the eyes, and have a mild sunburn sensation. This is a normal reaction. It can last from a few hours to days after treatment. Applying an ice pack for the first 24 hours will help minimize swelling.
- Vitamin E or Aloe Vera applied to the treatment area may provide a soothing effect. Post treatment discomfort is typically minimal but if the area is very uncomfortable, oral pain relievers; i.e. Extra Strength Tylenol or Advil, may be used.
- Freckles and sunspots may turn slightly darker initially and then flake off within 7-14 days. This is a desired and normal reaction.
- There may be erythema (redness) and slight edema (swelling) around the treated vessels. Often they are lighter in appearance and look somewhat smudgy or less defined.
- Makeup may be applied immediately after the treatment as long as skin integrity has not been compromised.
- In the unusual case of crusting of the skin in the treated area, apply an antibiotic ointment twice a day to the affected areas. Do not pick at these areas, as this may result in infection or scarring.
- If the skin is broken or a blister appears, apply Aquaphor or Vaseline and contact the office immediately. Keep the affected area moist and avoid direct sunlight.
- Strictly avoid any sun exposure to the treated area for a minimum of 7 days after the procedure. The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change. Keep the area covered and use a sun block with a protection factor of 30+, and reapply every 2 hours. Delayed blistering secondary to sun exposure has been noted up to 72 hours post treatment.
- If in the middle of a series of PhotoTherapy treatments, sun exposure should be avoided between treatments and a sunblock ( SPF 40 or SPF 46) should be used on a daily basis.