What To Do Before & After PicoSure Pro?

Pre-Treatment Care (Before the Procedure)

2–4 Weeks Before:

• Avoid Sun Exposure & Tanning: Strict sun avoidance is required. Do not use tanning beds, spray tans, or bronzing lotions. Sunburned or recently tanned skin increases the risk of side effects.
• Stop Photosensitizing Topical Ingredients: Discontinue active topicals such as retinoids (Retin-A, tretinoin, retinol), AHA/BHA acids (glycolic, lactic, salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, and hydroquinone at least 7 days before treatment.

1 Week Before:

• Avoid Sensitizing Medications/Supplements: If medically cleared, avoid blood-thinners medications and supplements (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, high-dose Vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo biloba) to minimize bruising.
• Avoid Harsh Treatments: Do not undergo chemical peels, microdermabrasion, waxing, or electrolysis on the treatment area.

Day of Treatment:

• Arrive with Clean Skin: Thoroughly wash the target area. Do not apply lotions, serums, makeup, perfume, or deodorant.
• Antiviral Prophylaxis: If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex) near the treatment area, start your prescribed antiviral medication (e.g., valacyclovir) as directed by your clinician.

Post-Treatment Care (After the Procedure)

Immediate Post-Care (First 24–48 Hours):

• Cooling & Soothing: Mild erythema (redness) and slight edema (swelling) are normal. Apply cool compresses or ice packs wrapped in a clean cloth for 10–15 minutes at a time to reduce heat and swelling.
• Keep Skin Clean & Hydrated: Use a gentle, non-soap, fragrance-free cleanser with lukewarm water. Pat dry gently, do not rub. Apply a light layer of a recommended soothing barrier cream (e.g., Aquaphor, CeraVe Healing Ointment, or a prescribed post-laser barrier cream).
• Avoid Direct Heat: Stay away from hot showers, saunas, hot tubs, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise that causes heavy sweating for at least 48 hours.

Days 3–7 (Healing Phase):

• Sun Protection (Critical): Broad-spectrum physical (mineral) sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher containing Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide must be applied daily, even indoors, and reapplied every 2 hours if outdoors. Wear broad-brimmed hats and protective clothing.
• Do Not Pick or Scratch: If treating pigment or tattoos, temporary darkening, slight crusting, or flaking may occur. Allow skin to shed naturally to prevent scarring or pigmentation.
• Avoid Active Ingredients: Resume active skin care (retinoids, exfoliating acids, vitamin C, or acne treatments) only after the skin has fully recovered and redness has completely subsided, typically at least 7 days post-treatment (or as advised by your practitioner).