PICOSURE PRE/POST CARE

PRE-CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR PICOSURE TREATMENT

To prepare your skin and ensure optimal results:

1.  Weeks Before Treatment:

  • Four weeks prior avoid sun exposure and tanning (including tanning beds). Sun exposure decreases the effectiveness of the laser treatment and can increase the chance of posttreatment complications

  • Four weeks prior stop using self-tanning products.

  • Two weeks prior avoid Antibiotics 

  • One week prior discontinue Retinoids, AHA’s/BHA’s such as glycolic salicylic acids etc., and other strong exfoliants.

  • One week prior avoid chemical peels, waxing, or microdermabrasion in the treatment area.

  • If you're on Accutane (isotretinoin), discontinue for at least 6 months prior.

  • Let your provider know if you're prone to cold sores—you may need to start an antiviral.

  • You must not be pregnant for treatment.

2. 3–5 Days Before Treatment:

  • Shave any hairy areas if necessary (especially for tattoo removal).

  • Ensure the skin is free from irritation or infection (no active breakouts, rashes, or wounds).

3. Day of Treatment:

  • Arrive with clean skin: no makeup, lotion, deodorant, or sunscreen on the area.

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing if treating the body.

  • Take a pain reliever like Tylenol (acetaminophen) if advised—Avoid ibuprofen or aspirin, as they may increase bruising.
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 POST-CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR PICOSURE TREATMENT

Proper aftercare is crucial for healing and best results:

1. Immediately After Treatment:

  • Expect redness, swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation for a few hours to 1–2 days.

  • You may also notice frosting, pinpoint bleeding, or temporary darkening of pigment.

  • Apply cold compresses and soothing gels (e.g., aloe vera or Aquaphor) as recommended.

  • Avoid Hot Showers and Baths: Avoid taking hot showers and baths for the first 24-48 hours after treatment, as hot water can irritate the skin. Additionally, cleanse with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser and avoid harsh soaps, or rough washcloths.

  • Avoid Strenuous Exercise: Avoid strenuous exercise or anything that causes excessive sweating for at least 24-48 hours after treatment, as sweat can irritate the skin. This includes avoiding saunas and steam rooms.

2. Skin Care Routine:

  • Cleanse gently with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser.

  • Apply moisturizer regularly to keep skin hydrated.

  • Avoid picking, scratching, or rubbing the treated area—this can cause scarring or other potential complications such as unwanted pigmentation changes.

  • Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ or higher sunscreen daily and re-apply every 2 hours

  •  Avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks, 4 weeks preferably.

3. Makeup & Products:

  • You can typically resume makeup use after 24–48 hours, unless otherwise directed.

  • Avoid active ingredients for a minimum 7 days-like retinoids, acids, or scrubs until the skin is fully healed.

4. Healing Timeline:

  • For pigmentation or acne scars: you may see darkening of spots, which can then flake off in 5–7 days.

  • Healing may take 1–2 weeks depending on the intensity and area treated.

  • Until you are fully healed, avoid contact sports or any other activity that could cause injury of the treated area swimming, soaking or using hot tubs/whirlpools until the skin heals

 

 

When to Contact Your Provider:

  • Signs of infection: increased redness, warmth, pus, or fever.

  • Persistent pain or discomfort.

  • Unexpected skin reactions (blistering, severe itching, or prolonged swelling).

 

 

Follow-Up:

  • Multiple sessions (3–6+) are often needed, spaced 4–8 weeks apart.

  • Results are cumulative—follow your provider's plan and maintain good skincare in between sessions.

  • Return for follow up appointments for skin assessment as needed. 

  • During the course of your treatments, notify staff of any changes to your medical history, health status, or personal activities that may be relevant to your treatment.