Pre & Post Treatment Instructions | Desert Sands Aesthetics & Laser
Pre & Post Treatment Care

Treatment Instructions.

Detailed pre and post treatment care instructions for every service at Desert Sands Aesthetics & Laser. Following these guidelines carefully supports the best possible outcome and minimizes your risk of complications.

Injectables — 01

Botox, Dysport & Xeomin.

Pre and post care instructions for all neuromodulator treatments. Please read the full list and contact us before your appointment with any questions.

Pre-Treatment
  • Avoid aspirin, NSAIDs, Gingko Biloba, garlic supplements, green tea, flax oil, cod liver oil, and Vitamins A and E for up to 1 week before treatment — these increase bruising risk.
  • Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment.
  • You may take Arnica tablets 2–3 days prior to reduce bruising risk.
  • Do not apply potentially irritating products for 2–3 days before treatment — this includes tretinoin, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and hydroquinone.
  • Inform your provider if you have a history of cold sores so antiviral therapy can be prescribed if needed.
  • Do not use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to any ingredients, or have a history of neurologic disorders.

Day of Treatment

  • Arrive with a clean face — no makeup.
  • Topical anesthetic is available in-office. Arrive 15 minutes early if you'd like it applied.
  • Expect mild tenderness or stinging during and after injection.
  • Redness, swelling, and mild bruising are normal responses.
Post-Treatment
  • Exercise your treated muscles for 1–2 hours after treatment (frown, raise eyebrows, squint) to work the product into the muscles.
  • Stay upright for 4 hours after injection — do not lie down or rest your head.
  • Ice the area gently (no firm pressure) for 15 minutes, 3 times on the day of treatment.
  • Tylenol may be taken for mild discomfort. Do not massage the treated areas.
  • Swelling, redness, and possible bruising are expected. Arnica tablets or gel can reduce bruising.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
  • Avoid extended UV exposure until redness and swelling resolve. Apply SPF.
  • Avoid laser, IPL, or skin tightening in the treated area for a minimum of 4 weeks.
  • Resume topical products (retinols, glycolics, etc.) 1 week after injection.
Injectables — 02

Dermal Fillers.

Pre and post care for Juvéderm, Restylane, and all hyaluronic acid filler treatments. Bruising and swelling are normal — the instructions below minimize both and support the best result.

Before Treatment
  • Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Celebrex, fish oil, Gingko Biloba, St. John's Wort, and high-dose Vitamin E for 7–10 days before your appointment, unless medically necessary.
  • If taking prescription blood thinners (Coumadin, Plavix), check with your prescribing doctor about stopping for 7–10 days before and 2 days after the procedure.
  • If you have any history of facial herpes simplex (cold sores), inform us one week before your appointment so antiviral medication can be prescribed.
  • Avoid dental procedures including cleaning for 2 weeks before filler.
  • Arrive with a clean face — no makeup or moisturizer.
  • Eat a small meal or snack before your appointment.
  • You may take Tylenol one hour before your appointment if you're concerned about discomfort.
After Treatment
  • Redness, swelling, bruising, and tenderness are normal and typically subside within a few days to one week. Contact us if symptoms persist beyond a week or if new symptoms develop.
  • Cold compresses may be used to reduce swelling. Tylenol may be taken every 4–6 hours for discomfort.
  • No makeup for 12 hours post-injection.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours to prevent moving the filler or increasing blood flow to the face.
  • Limit sun, UV lamp, and excessive heat exposure for the first 24 hours. If unavoidable, use SPF 30+ with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide for 5–7 days.
  • Avoid excessive touching or massaging treated areas for 6 hours. Clean gently with Cetaphil, CeraVe, or Dove unscented.
  • Avoid dental procedures including cleaning for 2 weeks post-filler.
  • Return for a 2-week follow-up to assess whether a touch-up is needed.
  • Avoid aspirin and NSAIDs for 5 days after treatment.
Important — When to Contact Us Immediately

Seek urgent review if you develop: swelling or lumpiness that does not fade in the first week with gentle massage; filler that changes texture and becomes hard or nodular; or increasing pain near the injection site that worsens over time, particularly if associated with a pale area of skin indicating reduced blood flow. In rare cases, urgent reversal may be required to prevent scarring. If experiencing these symptoms outside of office hours, go to the nearest emergency room.

Injectables — 03

KYBELLA.

Pre and post care instructions for KYBELLA submental fat reduction treatments. KYBELLA requires 2–6 sessions for optimal results, spaced 8–12 weeks apart.

Pre-Treatment
  • Take ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) approximately 1 hour before your appointment if not allergic — this reduces discomfort during treatment.
  • Inform your nurse if you have a history of difficulty swallowing, medication allergies, history of anaphylaxis, or any other medical problems.
Post-Treatment
  • Gently apply ice packs to treated areas several times throughout the day of treatment.
  • Treated areas may be red, inflamed, swollen, and bruised for 2–7 days.
  • It is normal for the area to feel slightly firm as KYBELLA works — it will slowly soften over approximately 8–10 weeks as it shrinks and tightens the area.
  • You may resume all normal activities including exercise as soon as it is comfortable to do so.
  • Take ibuprofen or Tylenol as needed for discomfort.
  • If bruising occurs, apply topical Arnica gel or drink fresh pineapple juice to help resolve it faster.
Scheduling

Schedule your next KYBELLA appointment in 8–12 weeks. KYBELLA requires 2–6 sessions for optimal results.

Injectables — 04

PDO Threads.

PDO threads are introduced through a fine needle into the skin, muscle, or subcutaneous fat. Results improve over weeks as PDO stimulates collagen production, with peak results at approximately 6 months lasting up to 2 years.

Treatment Areas

PDO threads can be placed in the following areas:

Forehead & BrowUpper & Lower CheeksJawlineNasolabial FoldsMarionette LinesNeckArmsAbdomenThighs

Not Suitable For

  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Autoimmune disease, active diabetes, or active infection
Post-Treatment
  • Some pain and discomfort after treatment is expected. Ibuprofen and Tylenol may be taken as needed.
  • Do not have other aesthetic procedures (toxins, fillers, peels, etc.) for 2 weeks.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures, alcohol, and anticoagulants for 7 days. If taking prescribed anticoagulants, continue as directed but be aware that bruising is more likely.
  • Gently wash the treated area as needed — do not rub or massage for 2 weeks.
  • Avoid dental treatments for 2 weeks before and after the procedure.
  • Do not have radiofrequency, IPL, laser, or other energy treatments near the treated area for 10 weeks.

Common Side Effects

  • Pain, tenderness, thread protrusion, or puckering of skin
  • Bleeding, bruising, hematoma, or infection
  • Swelling, inflammation, or asymmetry
  • Stinging, scratching, or pulling sensations
  • Allergic reaction (rare)
Laser Treatments — 05

IPL Photofacial.

Intense pulsed light treatment instructions. Sun avoidance before and after treatment is mandatory — no exceptions.

Before Treatment
  • Avoid all sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 4 weeks prior. This is mandatory — no exceptions.
  • Avoid self-tanner for 2 weeks before treatment.
  • Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen for 1 week prior. Inform your laser specialist if you take blood thinners regularly.
  • Avoid alcohol for 2 days before treatment.
  • Inform your provider if you have taken Accutane in the past year.

Day of Appointment

  • Arrive without creams or makeup on the treatment area.
  • Pre-treatment photos will be taken.
  • Protective eye shields will be provided before treatment begins.
After Treatment
  • Skin will appear pink (similar to mild sunburn) for a few hours. A cool compress will be provided in-office.
  • Makeup may be applied to cover redness as needed.
  • Skin may be temperature-sensitive for several days after treatment.
  • Brown spots and freckles will appear darker while healing — this is expected and temporary.
  • Full results are visible in 4–6 weeks. Two to three treatments may be needed for optimal results.
  • If cheeks or under-eye areas are slightly puffy, use cold compresses (5 minutes on, 10 minutes off) several times per hour. Sleep with your head elevated the first night.
  • Blistering and crusting are rare. If they occur, apply a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment (Aquaphor) 2–3 times per day for 3 days. Call us if either occurs.
  • Hyperpigmentation (darkening of skin) can occur in some skin types. Contact us if this occurs.
Laser Treatments — 06

Vascular Laser.

Care instructions for vascular laser treatment of spider veins, rosacea, broken capillaries, and vascular lesions. Treated areas may show reddish or bruised discoloration for 5–14 days.

Before Treatment
  • Do not drink alcohol, take aspirin, ibuprofen, Vitamin E, or fish oils for 3 days before and 3–5 days after your treatment — these increase the likelihood of bruising.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure. Use SPF 30+ when outdoors for several months before and after treatment. Sun exposure may cause side effects or reduce effectiveness.
After Treatment
  • Discomfort or stinging may be present but typically lasts no more than 6 hours. Tylenol or cool packs may be applied during this period.
  • If swelling occurs, cool compresses may help. For facial swelling, sleep with head elevated.
  • Apply antibiotic ointment if crusting or scabbing develops. Allow any crust to fall off naturally — do not pick or scratch.
  • Showering is permitted. Avoid hot tubs until the area is fully healed. Pat the area dry — do not rub.
  • Avoid swimming and sports if bruising is present to reduce irritation and infection risk.
  • Do not apply makeup for 2–3 days, or while crusting is present.
  • When discoloration clears, there may initially appear to be very little change in the vascular lesion. Improvement occurs slowly over several weeks — be patient.
Laser Treatments — 07

Laser Hair Removal.

Pre and post care for Gentle Max Pro laser hair removal. The melanin-containing hair must be present in the follicle at the time of treatment — no waxing, plucking, or bleaching before your appointment.

Before Treatment
  • Avoid sun exposure 4–6 weeks before and after treatment until your provider clears you.
  • Avoid bleaching, plucking, or waxing for 4–6 weeks before treatment. The hair must be present in the follicle — it is the target for the laser.
  • Stop any topical medications or skincare products as instructed by your provider 3–5 days before treatment.
  • If you have a history of genital or peri-oral herpes simplex, your provider may recommend prophylactic antiviral therapy.
  • Recently tanned skin cannot be treated. Treatment within 2 weeks of active tanning may cause hypopigmentation (white spots) that can last 2–3 months or longer.
  • Discontinue self-tanning products 1 week before treatment. Remove any residual self-tanner before your appointment.
  • If you have a tan or darker skin type, a bleaching regimen may be started 4–6 weeks before treatment.
After Treatment
  • Expect redness and swelling at each follicle for up to 2 hours — possibly longer. The area will feel like a sunburn for a few hours.
  • A topical soothing product such as aloe vera gel may be applied if desired.
  • Makeup may be applied immediately if the skin is not irritated.
  • Avoid sun exposure and use SPF 30+ at all times throughout the course of treatment.
  • Do not pick or scratch the treated skin. Avoid waxing, electrolysis, or tweezing in the treatment area for 4–6 weeks after treatment. Shaving is permitted.
  • 5–14 days after treatment, shedding of treated hair may appear as new hair growth — it is not. You can remove it by washing or wiping with a wet cloth or loofah sponge.
  • For underarm treatments, use powder instead of deodorant for 24 hours after treatment to reduce irritation.
  • Treat the skin gently, as if sunburned, for the first 24 hours.
  • Return at the first sign of hair regrowth — approximately 4–6 weeks for the upper body, up to 2–3 months for the lower body. New hair growth will not occur for at least 3 weeks after treatment.
Laser Treatments — 08

Ellipse Frax Non-Ablative Skin Resurfacing.

Post-procedure care for Ellipse Frax non-ablative skin resurfacing. You will see clearer skin as pigment diminishes within days — wrinkle improvement continues over months as new collagen forms. Do not expose treated skin to the sun. Use sunblock and hats for at least 6 weeks.

Immediately After Treatment

Use cold compresses for comfort. The sunburned feeling will decrease after a few hours. A warm sensation may remain — continue cool compresses until comfortable, then apply healing ointment. Sleep elevated. Keep cell phones, pets, and hair products away from your face.

  • Day 1

    Cleanse & Soak

    Cleanse with water and your recommended cleanser. Begin white vinegar soaks: 1 tablespoon white vinegar in 1 quart warm water, soak for 10 minutes 2–3 times per day. Keep skin moist with ointment.

  • Day 2

    Gentle Cleansing

    Cleanse with mild cleanser and gently wipe off loose crusty debris. Do not pick at skin — this is how scarring occurs. Keep moist with ointment. Continue vinegar soaks until crusting is gone.

  • Day 3

    Continue Care

    Continue cleansing and gently wiping off debris. Do not pick. Keep moist with ointment. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream 1% may be used for itching — discontinue after one week.

  • Day 4

    Maintain Moisture

    Do not pick off skin or attempt home peels. Continue applying ointment to areas where crust remains.

  • Day 5

    Moisturize As Skin Heals

    Continue light moisturizing as skin flakes off. Makeup (mineral only) may be used once crust is gone. Do not use harsh skincare products, glycolic, retinol, or exfoliating products on your new skin for at least one month.

  • Day 6

    Continue Mild Care

    Continue mild cleansing and moisturizer. Please call with any questions.

Laser Treatments — 09

eTwo Skin Rejuvenation.

Post-treatment care instructions for eTwo skin rejuvenation. Follow these instructions carefully to reduce your risk of complications.

Post-Treatment Instructions
  • Use foaming facial cleanser morning and night.
  • Apply Laser Enzyme Gel regularly throughout the healing process — it cools, moisturizes, and eases itch and irritation.
  • Apply UV Clear SPF each morning starting 12 hours after treatment.
  • Transient skin redness, swelling, heat, or tingling may last a few hours after treatment. Cool (not frozen) compresses may be applied for any post-treatment discomfort.
  • Tiny scabs of less than 1mm diameter will typically form 24–72 hours post-treatment and may remain for a few days. Do not touch or scratch — allow them to shed naturally. No exfoliation for 7 days.
  • Expect skin redness, swelling, and dry rough texture for 5–14 days. Some patients may have an exaggerated histamine response causing swelling that lasts longer than 14 days.
  • Use plenty of moisturizing cream between treatments, starting 12 hours after treatment.
  • No makeup for the first 12 hours.
  • Use high-factor sunscreen (SPF 30+) throughout the entire course of treatment and for at least one month after the last session.
  • No strenuous exercise for 24 hours after treatment.
  • Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and swimming for 2 days after treatment.
Laser Treatments — 10

Profound Lift.

Post-procedure care for Profound Lift RF microneedling. Immediately after treatment the area will appear swollen and red — this is normal. Redness typically resolves within 1–2 days; swelling and bruising within 5–7 days.

Immediately After Treatment

Apply ice compress for the first 45 minutes. For the next 3 days, continue cold compress at 20-minutes on / 20-minutes off intervals. Sleep with head elevated for the first 2–3 nights. Apply MDPen Copper+HA mist and Pure Hyaluronic Acid the day of treatment. Take Arnica Montana as directed (provided at your appointment).

Post-Procedure Instructions
  • Starting 24 hours post-treatment and while healing, wash the treated area twice daily with tepid water and a gentle cleanser. Avoid washcloths, harsh irritants, and scrubs. Pat dry — do not rub.
  • Ensure hands are clean before applying any product to the treated area.
  • Sleep with head elevated after treatment. Change your pillowcase daily or lay a clean towel each night. Avoid sleeping with pets.
  • Clean glasses frames, cellphone screens, and anything else that contacts the treated area.
  • For the first 24 hours, avoid vigorous exercise, activities that generate heat or vasodilation, hot baths, and saunas.
  • For 4–6 weeks post-treatment, avoid sun exposure. Apply a physical UV sunblock (SPF 30+) 20 minutes before going outside — even for a short walk or a drive.
  • Do not pick or exfoliate the area. Allow old, dry, or dead skin to flake off naturally. Picking can increase the risk of infection, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and other complications.
  • Avoid makeup for at least 3 days. Mineral makeup only may be applied after that.
  • Tylenol may be taken as directed for discomfort.
Skincare — 11

Light Chemical Peel.

Day-by-day post-peel care and additional guidelines for light chemical peel treatments.

  • Day 1
    • Wash with gentle cleanser if needed.
    • No strenuous physical activity for 24–48 hours.
    • Do not use a steam room or sauna for 24–48 hours.
    • Limit sun exposure for at least 72 hours.
    • Apply sunblock with Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide.
  • Day 2
    • Wash with a gentle cleanser.
    • Moisturize as needed.
    • Apply sunblock with Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide if going outdoors.
  • Day 3+
    • Use gentle cleanser until irritation and peeling has subsided.
    • Moisturize as needed.
    • Apply sunblock with Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide if going outdoors.
Additional Guidelines
  • Do not use a facial cleansing device (Clarisonic) until peeling is complete.
  • Do not start topical acne medications for 3–4 days.
  • Do not apply Retin-A, Retinol, or Renova for at least 3 days.
  • Do not use exfoliating agents or HQRA creams for 3–4 days.
  • No facials, microdermabrasion, or chemical peels for 2 weeks.
  • No facial waxing for 2 weeks.
  • No Botox or injectable fillers for 2 weeks.
  • No laser hair removal or vascular laser treatments for 5 weeks.
  • Do not smoke after treatment — smoking interferes with healing.
What to Expect

You may experience mild redness and tight-feeling skin. Do not peel or pull skin off — allow it to shed at its own pace. Premature peeling may cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 1–3 days post-treatment, skin may develop a red-brown or gray coloration and feel tight or wind-burned. Cracks in the skin may occur. If you wear glasses, be careful around the nosepiece — it can cause the peel to penetrate deeper in that area.

Skincare — 12

Heavy Chemical Peel.

Day-by-day post-peel care and additional guidelines for heavy chemical peel treatments. More intensive than light peels — follow all instructions carefully.

  • Day 1
    • Do not get the treatment area wet.
    • No strenuous physical activity for 24–48 hours.
    • Do not apply makeup for 24 hours.
    • Do not use a steam room or sauna for 24–48 hours.
    • Limit sun exposure for at least 72 hours.
    • Apply sunblock with Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide.
  • Day 2
    • Rinse treatment area with water only.
    • Moisturize as needed.
    • Apply sunblock with Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide if going outdoors.
  • Day 3+
    • Use a gentle cleanser until irritation and peeling subsides.
    • Moisturize as needed.
    • Apply sunblock with Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide if going outdoors.
Additional Guidelines
  • Do not use a facial cleansing device (Clarisonic) until peeling is complete.
  • Do not start topical acne medications for at least 7 days.
  • Do not apply Retin-A, Retinol, or Renova for at least 7 days.
  • Do not use exfoliating agents or HQRA creams for at least 7 days.
  • No facials, microdermabrasion, or chemical peels for 2 weeks.
  • No facial waxing for 2 weeks.
  • No Botox or injectable fillers for 2 weeks.
  • No laser hair removal or vascular laser treatments for 5 weeks.
  • Do not smoke after treatment — smoking interferes with healing.
What to Expect

You may experience mild redness, tight skin, and mild swelling. Do not peel or pull skin off — allow it to shed at its own pace. Premature peeling may cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 1–3 days post-treatment, skin may develop a red-brown or gray coloration and feel tight or wind-burned. Cracks may occur. If you wear glasses, be careful around the nosepiece.

Skincare — 13

Microneedling with PRP.

Pre and post treatment instructions for microneedling. Immediately after treatment your skin will be red with pinpoint bleeding and feel like a fresh sunburn. Expect 2–3 days of social downtime.

Pre-Treatment
  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for a minimum of 24 hours before treatment (preferably 1–2 weeks). Treatment will not be administered on sunburned skin.
  • Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, Aleve), blood thinners, herbal supplements, Vitamin E, and fish oil for at least one week before treatment. These may be restarted the day after your treatment.
  • Discontinue Accutane for at least 6 months before any microneedling treatment.
  • We recommend pretreating with Vitamin C, sunscreen, and retinols for at least 4 weeks before treatment.
  • Stop retinols, topical antibiotics, exfoliants, hydroquinone, and benzoyl peroxide 48 hours before treatment.
  • Eat a healthy meal and drink at least 4–6 glasses of water the morning of your treatment.
  • If you have a history of cold sores, prophylactic antiviral therapy may be prescribed.
Post-Treatment
  • Clean glasses frames, cellphone screens, and anything that contacts the treated area.
  • Do not pick or exfoliate the area — allow skin to flake off naturally.
  • Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours. Mineral makeup only after that.
  • Avoid sun exposure until healed (no redness or flaking).
  • Avoid exercise causing sweating, jacuzzis, saunas, and hot showers until skin is healed.
  • Advil or Tylenol may be taken for discomfort. Cool compresses every 1–2 hours for 3–5 minutes if needed.
  • Change your pillowcase and treat your face as an open wound until healed.
  • The morning after, wash gently with mild cleanser. Apply MDPen Copper+HA mist and Pure Hyaluronic Acid. Ensure hands are clean before applying any product.
  • For best results, a series of 3–6 treatments at 4–6 week intervals is recommended.

Home Care Checklist

  • Cleanse — Soothing cleanser with tepid water for 48 hours. Dry gently.
  • Soothe — Copper-based skincare post-treatment. Resveratrol-based products can lessen irritation.
  • Hydrate — Hyaluronic acid serum to restore skin balance. Avoid alcohol-based toners for 10–14 days.
  • Protect — No chemical sunscreen for 24 hours. Avoid direct sun for 3–5 days. Physical sunscreen after.
  • Makeup — No makeup for 12 hours. Use sterile applicators only.
Day-by-Day Skin Progress

Day 1: Red appearance varies with treatment depth. Day 2: Redness similar to moderate sunburn; swelling may be more noticeable. Day 3: Skin may still be pink or returned to normal; swelling subsides. Continue HA serum and moisturizer for 1–3 days. After 2–3 days, resume regular skincare. Products containing Vitamin A are recommended after healing.

Laser Treatments — 14

CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing.

Pre and post treatment instructions for CO2RE laser resurfacing. Plan for 5–10 days of social downtime. Lifetime daily sunblock is required to maintain results and protect your skin.

Before Treatment
  • Avoid aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen for 1 week prior. Inform your provider if you take blood thinners regularly.
  • Avoid alcohol and tobacco for 4 weeks before and 1 week after treatment — these cause delayed wound healing and persistent redness.
  • Moisturize morning and evening for 7 days before treatment. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to fully hydrate your skin.
  • Stop self-tanner 4 weeks prior to treatment.
  • Stop exfoliating products (retinols, glycolic acid, Retin-A) 1 week before treatment.
  • A prescription antiviral will be provided — take it as directed before your appointment.
  • Take Arnica Montana for 3 days before and 7 days after the procedure. Take 1500mg of Vitamin C daily to promote healing.
  • Avoid fish oil, Gingko Biloba, garlic, flax oil, cod liver oil, Vitamins A and E, and other supplements for 1 week before treatment.
  • Inform your provider if you have taken Accutane in the past year.
  • Store ice packs in the freezer for use after you return home.
  • Schedule treatment at least 4 weeks before any special event.
  • You must arrange a ride home if choosing pain medication.
  • Arrive with a clean face and hair. Wear comfortable clothing, a button-down shirt, and slip-on shoes.
After Treatment
  • Keep skin covered with healing ointment at all times immediately after treatment. Use Aquaphor in the morning and polysporin antibiotic ointment at night for 4 days.
  • Apply ice packs (with cloth barrier) to the treatment area for up to 10 minutes per hour, several times daily for 24–72 hours.
  • Sleep with head elevated (pillows or recliner) for the first 1–2 nights to reduce swelling. Areas most likely to swell are around the eyes and neck.
  • Use a diluted white vinegar solution (1 teaspoon vinegar to 1 cup water) and soft gauze pads to gently cleanse skin 4 times daily beginning the night of or morning after your procedure. Do not scrub or pick off dead skin — allow it to exfoliate naturally. Repeat for 5–10 days, until no tightness or discomfort without ointment on skin.
  • 1% hydrocortisone cream may be used for itching during the early healing phase.
  • Gentle cleanser may be used starting 6 days after treatment if it does not cause irritation.
  • Avoid harsh products, exfoliants, Retinols, and Retin-A for 2 weeks post-treatment.
  • Avoid makeup for 7–10 days. Use only on intact skin.
  • Begin sunscreen with zinc oxide once peeling has subsided. Avoid direct sun for at least one month. Lifetime daily sunblock is required.
  • Begin the post-treatment skincare maintenance program 14 days after your procedure.
Supplies to Purchase Before Treatment
Wound Care

Soft Gauze

Cleansing Solution

White Vinegar + Water (1 tsp per cup)

Bedding

Clean Pillowcases — change every 12–24 hrs

Ointment

Aquaphor Healing Ointment

Antibiotic

Polysporin Antibiotic Cream

Itch Relief

1% Hydrocortisone Cream (OTC)

Post-Treatment Skincare Kit

EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser · EltaMD Laser Enzyme Gel · EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. Begin using this kit 14 days after your CO2 Laser Resurfacing procedure.

Laser Treatments — 15

CO2RE Intima.

Pre and post procedure instructions for CO2RE Intima women's intimate wellness treatment.

Before Procedure
  • An up-to-date normal PAP test and recent normal vaginal exam are required. Please provide copies of these results to our office before your appointment.
  • Acyclovir or Valacyclovir is recommended for prophylaxis prior to treatment.
  • Complete medical history and physical prior to treatment.
  • Sign informed consent prior to the procedure.
  • Shave the treatment area the day before the procedure. Do not wax or chemically remove hair.
  • Avoid anticoagulants such as ibuprofen and aspirin throughout the treatment regimen if medically permitted and approved by your physician — they increase bruising risk.
  • No sexual intercourse the day of the procedure.
After Procedure
  • Apply a water-based lubricant or Aquaphor post-procedure.
  • Gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water twice daily.
  • You may experience slight itching during the healing process. Apply 1% hydrocortisone (over-the-counter) twice daily until resolved.
  • Avoid sexual intercourse for 7 days after procedure (nothing in the vagina for 7 days).
  • No tampon use for 7 days.
  • No douching for 7 days.
  • No bathtubs, jacuzzis, or swimming until the skin is completely healed.
  • You may need to use breathable panty liners on the day of treatment.
  • Apply cool compresses to the treatment area as needed for comfort.
  • Wear loose, breathable clothing the day of the procedure — skirts or loose shorts are recommended.
Questions?

We're here to help.

If you have any questions about your pre or post treatment instructions, or you're experiencing unexpected symptoms, contact us directly. We are always happy to help.

Hours · Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM