Pre Treatment Instructions

Preparing properly before treatment ensures the best results and minimizes the risk of irritation or complications.

Please read through the guidelines carefully and reach out to us if you have any questions before your appointment.
Attention:

Numbing is not included in your appointment time.

First appointments of the day cannot arrive early for numbing.

Before photos will be taken when you pick up your numbing cream.

Numbing – Two Options

In-office: Arrive 1 hour early to apply numbing cream and wait in-office.

(not available for first appointments of the day)

At home: Pick up numbing cream and instructions in advance.

Apply as directed to clean, dry skin at least 60 minutes before arrival.

Wash hands after applying and do not layer other products over the numbing.

Each treatment has specific pre-care steps, so be sure you’re viewing the correct section below

PICO Laser

(Pigment · Glow · Tone)

Pre -Treatment Instructions

Begin using The Mend Bright Pads and Even Serum at least 2 weeks prior to treatment.

Avoid sun exposure, spray tans, and self-tanners for at least 2 weeks before treatment.

Any residual self-tanner must be removed before treatment.
Recently tanned skin cannot be treated. If treated too soon, hypopigmentation may occur and can take 2–3 months to resolve.
Discontinue retinoids, exfoliants, and acids 3 days prior.
Notify us of any photosensitizing medications or if you have a history of cold sores—you may need to begin antiviral medication 3 days before treatment.
Arrive with clean skin—no SPF, lotion, or makeup.

Numbing cream application is required prior to your appointment.

It must be picked up in advance and applied 45–60 minutes before your scheduled treatment.

PICO Laser Tattoo

Pre -Treatment Instructions

The treatment area must be clean—no lotion, makeup, or SPF.
Avoid spray tans, self-tanner, and sun exposure to the tattoo area for 2 weeks prior.

If applicable, shave the area—do not wax.
Notify us of any photosensitizing medications.
If you have a history of cold sores and the tattoo is near the mouth, antiviral medication may be recommended—please let us know.

Numbing cream application is required prior to your appointment.

It must be picked up in advance and applied 60 minutes before your scheduled treatment.

Microneedling with PRP

(Texture · Tighten · Collagen Stimulation)

Pre -Treatment Instructions

Avoid sun exposure – No tanning or sunburns, including tanning beds.
Discontinue Accutane use for at least 6 months prior to treatment.

Avoid retinoids, acids, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, and topical antibiotics for 3 days before your appointment.

Avoid waxing, laser treatments, or depilatory creams for 7 days prior.

Shave 24 hours before your treatment (not the same day).

Arrive with clean skin — free of makeup, lotion, or skincare products.

Notify us if you have a history of cold sores—you may need to begin antiviral medication 3 days before treatment.

RF Microneedling + Erbium

(Lift · Tighten · Collagen Stimulation)

These guidelines apply to both combination and standalone treatments using the Pix:E device

Pre -Treatment Instructions

2 Weeks Before Treatment

Avoid sun exposure – No tanning or sunburns, including tanning beds. (Required for Erbium)
No self-tanner – Skin must be completely free of self-tanner or spray tan for any Pix:e treatment.

5–7 Days Before Treatment

Cold sore prevention – Let us know at least 3 days in advance if you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex). You may need to begin an antiviral medication.

Discontinue active skincare – Stop using retinoids, exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs), scrubs, and brightening agents.
Avoid waxing or depilatories – in the treatment area. Shaving is okay up to 24 hours before.
Pause photosensitizing medications – Let us know if you’re taking antibiotics or medications that increase sun sensitivity.
Avoid NSAIDs and alcohol – Stop NSAIDs like Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Aleve, and alcohol 1 week prior to reduce risk of bruising.

(Do not stop any daily medications without consulting your provider)

1-2 Weeks Before Treatment

Use prep products – If recommended, use The Mend Bright Pads and Even Serum to help prep and brighten the skin.

1-3 Days Before Treatment

Disclose any allergies – Let us know if you have allergies to topical anesthetics.
Clean your bedding – Use clean sheets and pillowcases the night before your appointment.

Day of Treatment

Clean skin only – No makeup, SPF, or skincare products.
Arriving with numbing? – Come with numbing already applied and uncovered.
First appointments of the day – Must numb at home, as early arrival is not possible.

Optional: Begin Pepcid + Zyrtec the day of your treatment and continue for several days to reduce swelling and itching.

Chemical Peel

(Refine · Brighten · Rejuvenate)

Pre -Treatment Instructions

Avoid microneedling 2–4 weeks before your peel.

Avoid sun exposure or tanning before, during, and after your peel.

Avoid waxing, threading, or depilatory creams for 10–14 days before and after treatment.

Avoid electrolysis or laser treatments for 7 days before your peel.

Discontinue Retin-A and other strong actives 3 days prior.

Notify us if you’re prone to cold sores, have a skin infection, or any skin sensitivities.

You cannot receive this treatment if you have an aspirin, phenol, or hydroquinone allergy, or if you are pregnant or breastfeedingplease reschedule to avoid a cancellation fee.

Avoid exercise, sweating, hot tubs, saunas, or steam rooms for 3–4 days post-peel to prevent irritation or hyperpigmentation.

Arrive with a clean face (no makeup). If not possible, please arrive early — supplies are available.

Optional add-ons: Dermaplaning or Aerolase Neo Laser may be performed prior to the peel — please ensure this is scheduled.

Neurotoxin (Xeomin/Dysport/Daxxify) may be done immediately after your peelplease schedule accordingly.

Don’t see your treatment listed?

Or have a question about your pre-care instructions?
Please reach out — we’re always happy to guide you through how to best prepare!

Call:

(972)645-2858

Site:

www.atkinsonaesthetics.com