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Aftercare
Good aftercare decreases the risks of complications, increases the response to treatment and gets you to your skin goals sooner! Each treatment has its own unique after care instructions so please have a read and ask us if you have any questions or concerns.
Remember we are all a little unique in our physiology, treatment plans and goals, so talk to your provider about how you can best optimize your skin health process.
Maximising the benefits of a facial treatmentBy taking care of the aftereffects of the treatment on your skin, you are giving it time to adapt to the treatments and ingredients, thereby boosting the effectiveness of the treatment in restoring your skin’s health.
Helping you reach your skin goals fasterDifferent facial treatments offer different results, and this varies depending on your skin concerns, skin type and goals.
Much like taking medications and getting on bedrest when you fall ill, the aftercare helps your skin get better. The more you keep to it, the sooner you will see your desired results.
Preventing overstimulation or lingering side effectsSome facial treatments may involve procedures that may overstimulate your skin, such as extractions.
The aftercare here plays an important role - as with all other facials - as it helps in reducing the side effects of such facial treatments as much as possible, so that you may achieve your desired skin goals.
Aftercare instructions
AccuTite
IMPORTANT: Below is a sample of post care instructions for regular patients or volunteer patients for training. Invasix/InMode provides forms for demonstration only and does not accept liability for their contents. Each clinic must customize post care instructions according to treatment procedure, local requirements, and appropriate language.
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Treatment areas will have dressings and/or a pressure garment to be removed in 48 hours. According to your physician’s instructions, wear the garment in the evening and while sleeping for at least two weeks or until swelling subsides. Ideally, wear the garment 12 hours per day for the first 2 weeks.
For small isolated treatment areas, compression garments may not be necessary after 48 hours. - Wound Care: Let soapy water gently wash over the incision sites (do not scrub). Apply antibiotic ointment to the incision points twice daily for one week after removing the pressure garment. Tiny scabs may appear during healing. Do not pick at scabs.
- Cleanse treated areas gently with mild soap (such as Cetaphil or CeraVe) and water after 48 hours. Avoid drying or irritating facial products including retinol and acids (Salicylic, Glycolic, etc.) for 3 weeks. Do not rub or irritate the area.
- Although rare and temporary, redness and swelling may last up to 3 weeks and are normal reactions. Bruising may occur and can last 1–2 weeks. Some patients report burning, tingling, or tightening sensations that may persist for up to 3 months.
- Limit physical activity and avoid excessive heat exposure (including fires, saunas, hot tubs) and UV light for 2 weeks.
- For facial and neck procedures: Sleep on several pillows or in a recliner to keep your head elevated for 2–3 days to minimize swelling. Minimize talking and chewing for 48 hours. Follow a soft diet for the first 48 hours.
- Makeup may be applied after 72 hours to cover redness or bruising. Avoid applying makeup directly over incision points that are still healing.
- If treatment was performed in hair-bearing areas, shaving should be done only with an electric razor for the first week.
- Burns and changes in pigmentation are rare but may occur. Small white bumps may appear and can take several weeks to resolve.
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Take only prescribed pain medication or Tylenol (not both), unless instructed otherwise. Avoid Aspirin and NSAIDs (Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Aleve, etc.) as they may thin the blood and increase bruising or bleeding unless prescribed by your primary care physician.
Your next dose of pain medication: ____________________.
Complete all prescribed antibiotics unless instructed otherwise. - Do not drink alcohol for several days as directed by your doctor. Alcohol may negatively impact healing and increase bleeding, crusting, or bruising.
- Although initial healing occurs sooner, skin tightening improvements may take 3–6 months to notice. Final results may take up to 12 months.
- If you experience fever, chills, drainage, discharge, extreme discomfort, or have any concerns, please contact ____________________. If calling after hours, the answering service will page the doctor.
BBL Acne
Download BBL Acne Aftercare (PDF)
Treatment Aftercare
Patient response can vary after a BBL Acne treatment. Erythema (redness) is usually noted within a few minutes after completion of the procedure. A slight sunburn sensation in and around the treated area is normal and expected. These reactions typically subside within 1–4 hours after treatment.
The treated area must be handled with care. BE GENTLE. Do not scratch or pick at your skin.
Until sensitivity has completely subsided, avoid the following:
- Sun exposure
- Use of scented lotions or soaps, exfoliant creams (Retin-A, AHA’s, BHA’s), acne creams or gels, loofas, and aggressive scrubbing
- Hot or cold water — wash only with tepid water
- Shaving
- Swimming pools and spas with chlorine or multiple chemicals
- Activities that cause excessive perspiration
- Strictly avoid sun exposure to the treated area for a minimum of 7–14 days. The skin will be more prone to sunburn and pigmentation changes. Keep the area covered and apply sunscreen with SPF 30+ every two hours. Delayed blistering due to sun exposure has been reported up to 72 hours post-treatment.
- A cold compress or ice pack may be used for comfort if the treated area feels warm. This is rarely needed but, if required, is typically only necessary within the first 4 hours.
- Makeup may be applied immediately after treatment provided the skin is intact and there are no signs of blistering.
- Vitamin E or Aloe Vera may be applied to provide a soothing effect.
- Post-treatment discomfort is typically minimal. If the area feels uncomfortable, oral pain relief such as Extra Strength Tylenol may be used.
- If the skin becomes broken or a blister appears, apply antibiotic ointment and contact the clinic immediately. Keep the area moisturized and avoid direct sunlight.
- Subsequent treatments are based on your clinician’s recommendation and are typically 1–2 treatments per week for at least 4 weeks or until acne clears. The number and frequency of treatments depend on acne severity and response.
- Clinical studies suggest that at least two BBL Acne treatments are needed before visible improvement is noted. Results have been reported to last up to 6 months.
On-call medical team: 403-763-3464
Clinic (non-emergency): 403-475-4025
BBL Phototherapy
Download Phototherapy Aftercare (PDF)
BBL Phototherapy Aftercare
The natural extrinsic effects of aging include sun damage, freckles, age spots, and redness caused by broken capillaries and rosacea. Some of these changes are related to intrinsic hormonal factors that increase melanin production or hereditary factors that create more visible vessels. Phototherapy reduces these visible signs of aging using non-invasive pulses of BroadBand Light (BBL).
If brown spots are the target, BBL penetrates the skin to reach melanocytes. The pigmented cells will darken and then peel or slough off within 7–14 days.
If redness is the target, blood vessels in the deeper layers of the skin absorb the light energy. The heat damages the vessels, which are then gradually reabsorbed by the body.
There is minimal downtime and a low risk of complications with phototherapy treatments. Multiple sessions are typically required and performed every 2–4 weeks until desired results are achieved.
The treated area must be handled with care. BE GENTLE. Do not scratch or pick at your skin.
Post-Treatment Guidelines
Until sensitivity has completely subsided, avoid the following:
- Sun exposure
- Use of scented lotions or soaps, exfoliant creams (Retin-A, AHA’s, BHA’s), acne creams or gels, loofah sponges, and aggressive scrubbing
- Hot or cold water — cleanse with tepid water only
- Shaving
- Swimming pools and spas containing chlorine or multiple chemicals
- Activities that cause excessive perspiration
- Strictly avoid sun exposure to the treated area for a minimum of 7–14 days. The skin will be more prone to sunburn and pigmentation changes. Keep the area covered and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen, reapplying every 2 hours. Delayed blistering secondary to sun exposure has been reported up to 72 hours post-treatment.
- Sun exposure should be avoided between treatments, and daily sunscreen use is strongly recommended.
- A cold compress or ice pack may be used to provide comfort if the area feels warm. This is typically only needed within the first 12 hours after treatment.
- Skin may appear red, swollen, or feel like a mild sunburn. This is normal and may last from a few hours to several days. Applying ice within the first 24 hours can help minimize swelling.
- Vitamin E or Aloe Vera may be applied to provide soothing relief. Post-treatment discomfort is typically minimal; however, if needed, oral pain relief such as Extra Strength Tylenol may be used.
- Freckles and sunspots may darken initially and then flake off within 7–14 days. This is a normal and expected response.
- Mild erythema (redness) and slight edema (swelling) may occur around treated vessels. Often, vessels appear lighter and less defined as they resolve.
- Makeup may be applied immediately after treatment as long as the skin remains intact.
- If unusual crusting occurs, apply an antibiotic ointment twice daily. Do not pick at treated areas, as this may cause infection or scarring.
- If the skin becomes broken or a blister develops, apply antibiotic ointment and contact the clinic immediately. Keep the area moisturized and avoid direct sunlight.
Subsequent treatments are based on your clinician’s recommendation and are typically scheduled 2–4 weeks apart.
On-call medical team: 403-763-3464
Clinic (non-emergency): 403-475-4025
Deoxycholic Acid
Pre / Post Care Instructions
Deoxycholic Acid is an injectable prescription medication used in adults to improve the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat beneath the chin, along the jawline, or in the buccal area. Many patients experience visible improvement in their chin profile within 2–4 treatments. Up to 6 treatments may be required for optimal results.
Pre-Treatment
- AVOID topical products such as Tretinoin (Retin-A), retinols, retinoids, glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or other anti-aging products.
- AVOID waxing, bleaching, tweezing, or the use of hair removal creams on the treatment area.
- AVOID blood-thinning over-the-counter medications such as ASA/Aspirin, Motrin, Advil/Ibuprofen, and Naproxen/Aleve.
- AVOID herbal supplements including garlic, ginseng, Vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s Wort, and Omega-3 capsules.
Treatment
- Skin will be cleansed and prepared by one of our medical aestheticians.
- Topical numbing cream and ice may be applied to the treatment area to minimize discomfort.
- Skin markings may be placed to outline the treatment area.
- You may experience mild discomfort or a stinging sensation during injection.
- Redness and swelling are normal following treatment.
- Tenderness at the treatment site(s) may last a few hours to several days. Bruising in treated areas may occur.
Post-Treatment
- Apply an ice pack to treated areas for 15 minutes every hour for the next 4–6 hours to minimize discomfort and swelling. Avoid prolonged icing to prevent risk of frostbite.
- Tylenol (Acetaminophen) may be taken for mild tenderness or discomfort.
- Mild pain, swelling, and/or tingling may occur over the next several days (or rarely, weeks). This is due to the inflammatory and dissolving process. Each treatment typically produces fewer symptoms than the previous one.
- Cleanse hands before touching the treated area.
- Drink plenty of water for 48 hours following treatment.
- AVOID exercise or strenuous activity for the remainder of the day.
- AVOID makeup for 24 hours.
- AVOID hot environments such as saunas and extended UV exposure until redness and swelling have resolved.
- AVOID laser treatments, resurfacing procedures, or chemical peels for a minimum of 2 weeks.
- You may shower and wash your face as usual.
- You may use moisturizer and sunscreen as part of your normal routine.
- Book your follow-up appointment in 4–6 weeks.
When to Call
- Changes in smile, speech, or noticeable facial asymmetry
- Ongoing pain at injection sites
- Discharge from injection site
- CALL IF YOU ARE EVER CONCERNED
On-call medical team: 403-763-3464
Clinic (non-emergency): 403-475-4025
Dermal Filler
Preparation
Inform your provider if you have a history of cold sores or if you are receiving antiviral therapy prior to treatment.
3 Days Prior
Avoid all blood thinners including alcohol, Advil, Aspirin, Aleve, Omega 3, fish oil, Vitamin E, Gingko, St. John's Wort or garlic to help reduce bruising.
1 Day Prior
Avoid drinking alcohol or any of the blood thinners listed above to prevent additional bruising.
Day of Treatment
Do
- Ice the area for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off to decrease swelling and potential bruising.
- Tylenol can help decrease pain without causing additional bleeding or bruising.
- To further decrease chances of bruising and increase healing, drink plenty of water and use topical or oral Arnica.
- Medications such as Benadryl, Claritin, or Reactine can aid in preventing excessive swelling.
Don't
- Avoid travel by plane for at least 24 hours after dermal filler, as this can increase swelling and alter results.
- Avoid touching, manipulating, or direct pressure to the injection site.
- Avoid makeup, exercise, and extreme temperatures.
- Avoid all blood thinners including medication or alcohol for at least 24 hours.
After Care
Inform your provider if you have a history of cold sores or if you are receiving antiviral therapy prior to treatment.
Day 2
- Continue to ice the area.
- Tylenol and oral antihistamines can help with pain and swelling.
- You may now resume normal activity and wear makeup.
Day 3
- Begin gently massaging lips to help prevent granulomas.
- Apply warm compresses to help speed up healing, especially bruising.
- You may begin more manual massage to lips if any bumps or nodules are felt.
Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning Aftercare
Dermaplaning is an excellent anti-aging treatment that provides immediate and cumulative results with each service. It is a physical exfoliation that removes dead skin cells and vellus hair from the surface of the skin. Your skin should feel softer and look brighter and more youthful.
Proper aftercare following dermaplaning or other anti-aging treatments will help maintain results longer and reduce the risk of irritation or complications.
Day of Treatment
Redness, itching, prickling or heat sensation, slight swelling, tenderness, sensitivity, and tightness are common and expected during and after treatment.
Do
Step 1: Cleanse
Use a gentle cleanser with warm (not hot) water. Splash water onto the face. Avoid abrasive washcloths, Clarisonic devices, or strong shower spray for the first 24–48 hours. Do not use cleansers, serums, or spot treatments containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide (BPO) for 5 days following treatment.
Step 2: Tone
Hydrating or brightening toners applied with a cotton round will penetrate more effectively post-treatment. If you are sensitive, test products on a small area before applying to the full face.
Step 3: Serums
Active ingredients will absorb more efficiently after dermaplaning, often producing quicker visible results. Consult your aesthetician or nurse about appropriate serums for your skin. Avoid Retin-A for 5 days before and after treatment. For darker skin tones, use a brightening serum to reduce the risk of excess pigmentation.
Step 4: Moisturize
Apply a hydrating moisturizer twice daily. It is common for skin to feel tight but dewy; this sensation is temporary. Moisturizer supports hydration and enhances absorption of active ingredients. For darker skin tones, a 1% hydrocortisone cream may be used for up to 5 days to calm inflammation and reduce pigmentation risk.
Step 5: SPF
Skin is more vulnerable to UV exposure after exfoliation. Apply SPF daily, even on cloudy days, and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.
Schedule appointments approximately 4 weeks apart for optimal results.
Contact your aesthetician with any compliments, questions, or concerns.
Don't
- Avoid irritating makeup products. Bacteria, alcohols, colorants, and fragrances may trigger irritation or contact dermatitis. Use clean brushes and fresh makeup products.
- Avoid sun exposure as much as possible. If outdoors, apply and reapply SPF 30+ every 2 hours, wear a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade.
- Avoid excessive heat, heavy workouts, steam rooms, and saunas for 24–48 hours post-treatment.
- Wait 7 days before facial waxing. Waxing may be performed prior to dermaplaning.
Microneedling
Download Microneedling Aftercare (PDF)
Pre / Post-Care Instructions
Preparation
Inform your provider if you have a history of cold sores or if you are receiving antiviral or antibiotic therapy prior to treatment.
Avoid all blood thinners including alcohol, Advil, Aspirin, Aleve, Omega 3, fish oil, Vitamin E, Gingko, St. John’s Wort, and garlic to help reduce bruising.
Day of Treatment
Side effects and risks are minimal with this treatment and typically include minor flaking or dryness of the skin. Minimal or mild scab formation may occur in rare circumstances. Redness is normal and may last up to 7 days.
Do
- Use warm water to cleanse the face for the first 84 hours following treatment. Pat the area dry — do not rub.
- Ensure hands are clean before touching the treated area to avoid infection.
- Apply physical (mineral) sunscreen for the first 24 hours if needed. Avoid chemical sunscreens for 24 hours.
- Use hyaluronic acid serums, peptides, and hydrating creams to relieve dryness and tightness.
Don't
- Avoid applying makeup for the first 12–24 hours following treatment.
- Avoid direct sun exposure for 14 days.
- Do not overuse topical creams or serums, as this may cause further dryness or irritation.
- Avoid alcohol-based toners and strong retinol products for 10–14 days.
On-call medical team: 403-763-3464
Clinic (non-emergency): 403-475-4025
Morpheus8
Download Morpheus8 Aftercare (PDF)
Pre-treatment Preparations
- Advise the patient to avoid skin irritation or intentional tanning. Sunscreen is recommended when outdoors during daylight hours.
- Discontinue any irritating topical agents for 2–3 days prior to treatment.
- Arrive for treatment with clean skin. No lotion, makeup, perfume, powder, or bath/shower oils should be present on the treatment area.
- Patient preparation includes photos, informed consent, and marking of treatment areas as required.
- The Morpheus8 tip must not be fully submerged in liquid to avoid electrical shorts.
- Any topical Lidocaine application or Lidocaine injection must be administered only with a physician’s order and under medical director supervision.
Post-treatment Care
- Immediately after treatment, most patients will experience erythema (redness) for 1–3 days. For more aggressive treatments, this may last longer. Mild to moderate edema (swelling) and a mild to moderate sunburn sensation are also common and may last 1–3 days. Skin may crust and peel for 2–7 days depending on treatment settings.
- Before discharge, a topical ointment may be applied to the face. No bandages or wraps are necessary.
- There are no restrictions on bathing; however, treat the skin gently and avoid scrubbing or trauma to the treated area.
- Avoid sun exposure to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.
- Use a zinc oxide sunscreen SPF 30+ at all times after 24–48 hours.
- Multiple treatments over several months may be required to achieve the desired response.
Neuromodulators
Neuromodulators
Preparation
Inform your provider if you have a history of cold sores or if you are receiving antiviral therapy prior to treatment.
3 Days Prior
- Avoid all blood thinners including alcohol, Advil, Aspirin, Aleve, Omega-3, fish oil, Vitamin E, Gingko, St. John's Wort, or garlic to minimize bruising.
1 Day Prior
- Avoid drinking alcohol or any of the blood thinners listed above to prevent additional bruising.
Day of Treatment
Redness and swelling are normal. Some bruising may be visible. You may experience tenderness or a stinging sensation at the treatment site lasting from a few minutes to several days.
Do
- Ice the area for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off to help decrease swelling and potential bruising.
- Tylenol may be used to help decrease discomfort without increasing bleeding or bruising.
Don't
- Avoid lying down or engaging in strenuous activity for 6 hours post-treatment.
- Avoid touching, manipulating, or applying direct pressure to the injection site.
- Avoid makeup, exercise, and extreme temperatures immediately following treatment.
- Avoid all blood thinners including medications or alcohol for at least 24 hours.
PRP
PRP Procedure
PRP is indicated for a variety of cosmetic and medical uses. Benefits include improvements in facial volume, texture, and tone with decreased appearance of wrinkles. PRP has also been found effective in treating hair loss (androgenic alopecia) with encouraging hair regrowth results. Once injected, platelet-rich plasma stimulates tissue healing and new collagen formation at the treatment site.
Treatment Achieves
- Improve dull skin tone
- Reduce wrinkles
- Treat hair loss and thinning hair
- Improve scars and acne
- Improve skin texture
- Increase collagen production
- Enhance skin elasticity, tone, and thickness
What To Expect After PRP Injections
PRP injections are not dermal fillers and do not “fill” the area. Temporary swelling from the plasma injection is normal and will subside as collagen production begins. Immediately following the procedure, commonly reported temporary side effects include redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, tingling, numbness, lumpiness, and/or a feeling of pressure or fullness at the injection site(s). Cold gel packs or ice may be applied immediately to reduce swelling.
To Maximize Results and Prevent Complications
- Avoid scrubbing the injection site for at least 4 hours.
- Avoid direct high heat (blow dryer, sun exposure, sauna, steam room, hot shower, hot yoga, strenuous exercise) for 24 hours.
- Contact the clinic if you notice signs of infection (abnormal redness, pain, or leakage from injection sites).
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen, Motrin, or Advil, as these may interfere with the natural inflammatory process necessary for rejuvenation.
The Brigette PRP Facial
Treatment Includes and Achieves
- Dermaplaning to exfoliate dead skin and vellus hair, preparing the skin for treatment
- Microneedling to enhance PRP absorption, stimulate collagen production, smooth acne scars and fine lines, and improve skin structure
- PRP injection to stimulate growth factors and improve skin tone, texture, and thickness
- Skin booster Hyaluronic Acid to improve hydration, smoothness, and overall tone
- Skin-enhancing Vitamindrip™ “Cosmetic” IV fortified with amino acids and active ingredients to stimulate collagen production and support skin repair
Aftercare Timeline
Day 1
Leave PRP on the skin for at least 8 hours. The next day, cleanse with cool water and apply moisturizer and approved topical products as directed. Avoid exfoliants or glycolic acids, as skin may feel dry. Use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. Tylenol may be used as needed for soreness. Use a clean pillowcase for 3 nights following treatment. Ensure that all items contacting the face (makeup brushes, glasses, etc.) are sanitized. Swelling and redness may occur and last a few days.
Days 2–7
Within two days following microneedling PRP, mild dryness and flaking may occur due to increased skin turnover. Continue moisturizing and follow provider instructions. If treated around the eyes, mild micro-bruising and swelling may last 3–4 days.
Days 7+
One week after treatment, skin typically appears smoother and more radiant. You may resume use of exfoliants and active ingredients (glycolic acids, retinols, etc.).
Follow-up treatments are recommended every 4–6 weeks, typically in a series of 3–6 sessions for optimal results.
Thread Lifts
Download Thread Lift Aftercare (PDF)
Recovery from a Thread Lift
A thread lift requires minimal recovery time due to its minimally invasive nature. However, it is helpful to understand when you can expect to return to normal activities. The following guidelines provide general expectations, but always follow any specific instructions provided by your medical team, as each patient’s treatment plan is unique.
What Should I Expect?
The treated area may feel tight — this is normal. Tightness occurs due to swelling, the amount of tissue lifted, and how the sutures were placed. This typically improves within 7–14 days. Visible swelling and bruising may occur and can be relieved with rest and ice. Mild discomfort is expected and can be managed with Tylenol and ice.
After Treatment Care for a Thread Lift
- If you are prone to swelling or bruising, apply ice for 30 minutes, 4–5 times daily, for the first 5 days.
- Limit aggressive facial movement and avoid rubbing for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid facial creams and makeup for 24 hours.
- Do not drink through a straw.
- Keep your head elevated (avoid bending below heart level) at a 45-degree angle for 5–7 days.
- Eat soft foods or drink liquids for 7–10 days.
- Avoid chewing gum for 2 weeks.
- Avoid heavy exertion for 2–3 weeks.
- Avoid pulling down on the face or massaging the area for 3 weeks.
- Avoid sleeping on your side or face for up to 7 days.
When Can I Start Working Again?
Most patients return to work within 1 day of treatment, though this varies depending on job demands. Jobs requiring minimal activity may resume in 1–2 days. More strenuous or physically demanding jobs may require additional time off.
When Can I Shower?
Avoid washing, wetting, or touching your face or treated area for at least 12 hours after your procedure. Once you begin showering, avoid massaging or scrubbing the area with a washcloth for 1–2 weeks.
When Can I Resume My Regular Skin Care Routine?
You may gently resume a basic cleanse, dry, and moisturize routine approximately 48 hours after treatment. Avoid scrubbing, tugging, exfoliation, and consult your medical team before using prescription-strength creams or topical medications.
When Can I Exercise Again?
Light activity such as walking may resume within 24–48 hours. Avoid straining the treated area. Strenuous activity such as weightlifting or running should be avoided until your follow-up appointment. Yoga positions requiring your head to be below your heart should be avoided for 7 days.
What to Watch For
Mild bruising, swelling, and/or discomfort are normal for 48–72 hours. Contact the clinic if pain persists or worsens. Notify us immediately if you experience drainage from the site, thread migration (puckering), increasing redness, warmth, fever, or feeling unwell.
On-call medical team: 403-763-3464
Clinic (non-emergency): 403-475-4025
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