• It is recommended that all patients who have a history of cold sores take an oral antiviral agent to prevent any cold sore virus getting into the treated areas. Valtrex 500 mg twice a day to start 1 day before treatment and continue on for 5 days post treatment (7 days total).
• Please discontinue any products containing active ingredients 7 days prior to treatment, such as: Retinol (Retin-A, Tretinoin, Vitamin A), Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, AHAs (Alpha-hydroxy acids), LHAs (Lipo hydroxy acids), hydroquinone and Benzoyl Peroxide. If you have any questions about your current skin care products, please call our office 303-567-7778.
• Please show up to your treatment appointment with no makeup on.
• Avoid sun exposure (including tanning beds) for at least 14 days prior to treatment. Avoid sunless tanning creams or sprays on the treated area for 14 days prior.
• Do not wax or use depilatory creams on the treatment areas for 14 days prior to treatment.
• Avoid Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Fish Oils, Vitamin E, and other blood thinners 5-7 days before your appt

After you have your treatment you will leave the office with a thick layer of Aquaphor (a petroleum based ointment) on your skin. You will be provided with a tube of this to take home. You will also be provided with a Bio Cellulose mask which you may use if your face feels very hot and uncomfortable. Wait until your Aquaphor is absorbed before using the mask. This mask provides short term cooling and comfort. After the mask you can apply more Aquaphor onto your skin. Please ensure your skin does not dry out (i.e. always ensure a good layer of Aquaphor is on the skin for as long as your provider has advised).

• Redness normally persists for 24 hours – 5 days depending upon the depth of the peel. In some cases, there can be pinpoint bleeding in some areas. This is normal and should subside within 1-2 hours of the procedure.
• Swelling is typically a short-term response. Use of a cold compress or ice packs will help to relieve the swelling. To avoid further swelling, you may choose to sleep in an upright position the first night after the treatment.
• If an antiviral was prescribed for you, continue to take as directed.
• Post treatment discomfort may be relieved by oral pain relievers; i.e. Extra Strength Tylenol.
• 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.
• After skin is healed, your skin will continue to build new collagen for up to 2-3 months. It is important to be on a skin care regime to maintain healthy skin and optimal results. Your treatment provider will discuss this with you.
• Avoid makeup for at least 48 hours. SPF may be applied the following day.