Radiofrequency Microneedling Pre and Post-Care Instructions
Pre-Treatment Instructions
Do not use topical agents that may increase sensitivity of skin: retinoids, topical antibiotics, exfoliants, acids that may be drying or irritating to the skin (such as alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) beta hydroxyl acids (BHA), exfoliating masks, salicylic acids, hydroquinone, and benzoyl peroxide acne products) 5-7 days prior.
Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, Motrin or Advil for 3 days prior to treatment. These agents will interfere with the natural inflammatory process that is critical and responsible for your skin rejuvenation.
Avoidance of IPL/Laser procedures, unprotected sun exposure or sunburn for 2 weeks prior.
No waxing, depilatory creams or electrolysis to area being treated 5-7 days prior.
No shaving the day of the procedure to avoid skin irritation. If there is dense hair present in the treatment area, closely shave the area the day before you arrive at your appointment. Moles, warts or actinic (solar) keratosis cannot be treated.
If you are prone to cold sores, take antiviral agent for 2 days prior to and day of treatment.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Pregnancy, actively infected or actively inflamed skin, skin irritation, cystic acne to area being treated, keloid scars, allergies to topical lidocaine and sunburn.
Day of Treatment:
Skin is clean without lotion, oil, makeup, powder, perfume or sunscreen. Patient may wash face in office upon arrival.
Inform provider of any relevant changes in your medical history and of all medications you are taking.
Notify provider of any cosmetic tattoos to areas being treated.
Topical Lidocaine will be applied either at home or in office 30-45 min prior to treatment.
Post-Treatment Instructions
The treated areas may be sensitive and pink or red for up to 48 hours. To protect the skin, please use the recommended post-treatment regimen as discussed with your provider. Usually a specific HA serum twice daily to face and neck, followed by an approved gentle, post-procedure moisturizer, then recommended sunscreen. Do not use any prescription topical medications, Retin-A, alcohol-based toners, or Vitamin C serum for up to 3 days post-procedure unless cleared by provider.
The treated areas should be gently washed twice daily with approved gentle cleanser and water. No scrubbing, exfoliators, or washcloths.
Do not get any facials or other treatments for at least 1 week post procedure.
Mild crusting or brown microdots might be noted 1–5 days following treatment. Crusts and/or brown dots will disappear naturally in several days but can sometimes take up to 2 weeks to completely clear. Do not pick at the crusts. Soaking skin in the shower for 10-15 minutes and rubbing very gently can help with sloughing.
Avoid vigorous activity, excess heat, or sun exposure for at least 2 days post-procedure. Apply the recommended post-procedure sunscreen daily. Until the skin returns to normal, when outdoors always use an umbrella, hat or other available protection against sunlight to avoid hyperpigmentation on the treated area.
It is normal to experience bruising, redness, itching, swelling and/or soreness that may last from 2-5 days following your treatment. If you experience any pain or discomfort, you may take Tylenol or other Acetaminophen-containing products as directed.
You may notice a tingling sensation while the cells are being activated.
In rare cases, skin infection or reaction may occur, which is easily treated with an antibiotic or anti-inflammatory. Please contact our office immediately if you notice unusual discomfort.
Ice or cold compresses can be applied to reduce swelling if required.
Continue to avoid Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Voltaren and other anti-inflammatory medications for 3 days after your procedure (if possible try for 7 days).
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and smoking for 3 days after treatment. Smoking impairs healing, new hair and skin growth, and results may take longer.
Continue increased water intake the first week after your treatment.
Do not use blood thinning agents such as vitamin E, vitamin A, Ginko, Garlic, Flax, Cod Liver Oil, Essential Fatty Acids at least one week after your treatment.
Expected Skin Reaction and Results
1–3 Days Post-Treatment: Redness and mild swelling. Skin begins to turn to a condition similar to before treatment. Skin may feel tighter. Redness and microdots may take 1 – 2 weeks to completely resolve, but are
3 days–2 Weeks Post-Treatment: Brighter, more even skin tone and significant reduction in sebum (oil) secretion on treated areas.
1 Month Post-Treatment: Beginning of improvement of fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity (looseness).
1–6 Months Post-Treatment: Continued improvement of fine wrinkles, pores size, scars and skin laxity.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate
to give the office a call at (720) 313-1056.
If you need to cancel or reschedule any future appointments, please call our office 48 hours in advance to avoid $150 late cancellation fee. You can also manage your appointment in our patient portal.