The Dermatologist’s Playbook for Pre- and Post-Procedure Skincare: What to Use, What to Skip, and When

Key Highlights:
Introduction
Why pre- and post-procedure skincare changes the outcome
Preparing your skin: ingredients and timing before a procedure
What to avoid before your appointment
Post-procedure priorities: hydration, inflammation control and sun protection
Building a post-procedure timeline: day-by-day to month-by-month
How to tailor care to skin type and concerns
Red flags and when to contact your clinician
Common mistakes that undermine results
Building a practical recovery toolkit
Why winter is a preferred season for many treatments
Expert-curated product selections and how to use them
How clinicians evaluate readiness to resume active ingredients
Red light therapy and at-home devices: timing, benefits, limitations
Practical consultation checklist: what to bring to your appointment
Cost considerations and where to invest
Frequently encountered patient questions answered
FAQ

Key Highlights:

Use gentle, barrier-supporting products before and after in-office treatments; avoid retinoids 1–2 weeks before many procedures and hold off on actives until your provider clears you.
Post-procedure care prioritizes hydration, inflammation control and mineral sunscreen; growth factor serums and red-light therapy can accelerate recovery when introduced at the right time.
Choose routines and ingredients based on the procedure: neurotoxins require minimal downtime, while lasers and deep peels need strict, simplified care and longer recovery windows.

Introduction

Clinic visits for neurotoxin injections, laser resurfacing, microneedling and chemical peels deliver measurable results — but the outcome depends heavily on what happens before and after the treatment. Dermatologists see the best results when patients follow product and timing guidelines that protect the skin barrier, minimize inflammation and prevent pigment complications. Winter often becomes a preferred season for many procedures because lower sun exposure and cooler conditions reduce risk during recovery. The guidance below synthesizes recommendations from dermatologists and retail experts to deliver a practical, evidence-aligned plan for preparing skin, protecting it during healing and returning safely to active ingredients.

Why pre- and post-procedure skincare changes the outcome

Procedures alter the skin in controlled ways. Some, like injectables, act beneath the surface with limited barrier disruption. Others, such as fractional laser resurfacing or medium-to-deep chemical peels, intentionally injure or remove layers of skin to stimulate remodeling. The tissue response that follows—an inflammatory cascade, collagen remodeling and surface re-epithelialization—determines how well the treatment performs and how quickly you recover.

Excessive inflammation interferes with clinician options and extends downtime. It can also increase the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation and scarring. That explains the mainstream advice: reduce anything likely to provoke irritation before a procedure, then switch to soothing, reparative formulations afterward. The objective is simple: present the clinician with a calm, well-hydrated canvas; support the skin while it heals; and protect the newly restored tissue from external stressors like UV exposure.

Dr. Ben Witkoff, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon, stresses avoidance of inflammatory triggers both prior to and following procedures. Debra Luftman, MD, adds that antioxidants, gentle exfoliation at low strength and barrier-supporting hydrators optimize the skin for treatment without provoking inflammation. Chelsea Strauser of Dermstore points out that brands are increasingly responding with products designed specifically for pre- and post-procedure needs, backed by clinical testing in post-treatment populations.

Preparing your skin: ingredients and timing before a procedure

Preparation should calm rather than challenge the skin. The goal is to reduce baseline irritation, maximize barrier function and remove superficial dead cells in a controlled way so the skin responds predictably to in-office intervention.

Key ingredient categories for pre-procedure care

Low-strength chemical exfoliants: mild AHAs (like glycolic or lactic at low concentration) or PHAs gently even texture and promote surface turnover. Use conservatively and stop as directed before the appointment.
Antioxidants: topical vitamin C and polyphenols such as green tea help neutralize free radicals and can reduce oxidative stress before procedures.
Barrier-supporting hydrators: hyaluronic acid and glycerin draw and retain moisture, helping the stratum corneum resist undue trauma.
Mineral broad-spectrum sunscreen: choose SPF 30 or higher. Mineral (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) options are preferable because they are less likely to irritate freshly treated or sensitized skin.

When to stop retinoids and other actives Retinoids and prescription-strength retinoids accelerate cell turnover and can thin the stratum corneum over time. That makes them potential sources of increased sensitivity when combined with procedural energy or resurfacing. Dr. Witkoff recommends discontinuing retinols and prescription retinoids at least one to two weeks before a procedure unless your provider gives other instructions. The exact timing depends on the treatment’s intensity. For aggressive resurfacing, longer cessation might be required. Confirm timing with the treating clinician.

A sample pre-procedure routine (two weeks out)

Morning: gentle cleanser → antioxidant serum (e.g., vitamin C) → hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid → mineral sunscreen SPF 30+.
Evening: gentle cleanser → low-strength PHA or AHA (used every other night) → barrier cream or lightweight moisturizer.
Discontinue exfoliant and retinoids 2–3 days before the appointment if told to, or earlier if your provider recommends.

Product examples clinicians and buying experts recommend

SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst Exfoliating Booster: A serum designed to accelerate cell turnover gently; use once daily for one to two weeks before some procedures, stopping several days before treatment.
Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream: Non-comedogenic, barrier-supporting moisturizer that helps hydrate without clogging pores.
Senté Even Tone Mineral Sunscreen: A mineral SPF with anti-inflammatory benefits; protects and calms pre-procedure skin.

These products illustrate the principle: use proven, gentle formulations that support barrier function and reduce reactive potential.

What to avoid before your appointment

Pre-procedure missteps frequently center on overstimulating the skin. Avoid the following to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and to keep the treatment plan unchanged:

High-concentration acids or frequent chemical peels.
Retinoids and prescription retinoids for at least one to two weeks (or longer for deep treatments).
Benzoyl peroxide on areas to be treated.
Physical scrubs and cleansing brushes that can produce microtrauma.
Fragrances, essential oils and alcohol-heavy toners that strip or irritate.
Excessive sun exposure and tanning that increase pigmentation risk and alter healing.

A practical tip: if you have a routine you’ve used for years, bring an ingredient list to your consultation. Your provider can point out which items to stop and when.

Post-procedure priorities: hydration, inflammation control and sun protection

After the procedure, the skin needs a restrained regimen designed to support barrier repair, limit inflammation and prevent pigmentary complications. The specific regimen and timeline depend on the procedure’s intensity.

Three consistent post-procedure rules

Simplify the routine. Fewer products reduce the chance of irritation.
Focus on hydration and barrier repair. Keep transepidermal water loss low to prevent sensitivity and promote re-epithelialization.
Protect from ultraviolet radiation. Newly treated skin is highly vulnerable to UV-induced hyperpigmentation.

Ingredients and product classes to use early

Gentle cleansers: non-foaming, fragrance-free formulations.
Hydrators and occlusives: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides and occlusive balms to lock moisture in.
Anti-inflammatory serums: formulations containing vitamin E, green tea, or combinations designed to reduce redness.
Mineral sunscreens: zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide immediate, broad protection without irritating fragile skin.

Ingredients and products to avoid initially

Retinoids and high-strength chemical exfoliants.
Benzoyl peroxide and other acne actives that can be drying.
Physical exfoliants and brushes.
Fragrance, essential oils and menthol that can sting or inflame.
Alcohol-heavy formulations that impair barrier recovery.

Product recommendations for recovery

iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance Plus: A serum formulated for post-procedural use, combining vitamin C, vitamin E and anti-inflammatory ingredients to reduce redness and support healing.
BioEffect 3xGF Recovery Serum: Growth factor–based serum intended to accelerate healing, particularly useful after energy-based treatments and microneedling; pricier but targeted for recovery support.
Allies of Skin Molecular Barrier Recovery Cream Balm: A balm focused on repairing the barrier and reducing transepidermal water loss.
SkinCeuticals Advanced RGN-6 Regenerative Cream: Supportive regenerative cream with benefits for aging skin and recovery.
EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Face Sunscreen SPF 50: Combines mineral UV protection with barrier repair and color correction to calm redness.
HigherDose Red Light Face Mask: Red-light therapy device that may help reduce inflammation and support collagen production, only recommended once the provider confirms the skin is ready.

Chelsea Strauser notes that many products now carry clinical validation for post-treatment use. If choosing targeted recovery products, prefer those with data supporting safety and efficacy in post-procedure contexts.

Building a post-procedure timeline: day-by-day to month-by-month

Immediate post-treatment (first 24–72 hours)

Keep the treated area clean and protected.
Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser and a soft pat-dry method.
Apply a simple, occlusive moisturizer or recovery balm as directed by your clinician.
Avoid makeup, heat, heavy exercise and sun exposure.
For some treatments, cool compresses may reduce discomfort. Follow clinic instructions for any topical medications or prescribed ointments.

First week

Stick to fragrance-free, alcohol-free, minimal ingredient products.
Continue daily sunscreen; mineral sunscreens are preferred for extra gentleness.
If redness and peeling occur, avoid picking or aggressive cleansing.
Start anti-inflammatory serums only if recommended; some growth-factor serums may be introduced according to clinician guidance.

Weeks 2–4

Gradually reintroduce mild actives if the skin shows no sign of irritation and your provider approves.
Avoid returning to strong retinoids or acid resurfacing until the clinician gives the green light.
Consider supportive modalities like a red light mask only after re-epithelialization and clinician confirmation.

One month and beyond

If healing is complete, resume tailored treatments for maintenance: retinoids, targeted serums and professional procedures spaced per the clinician’s plan.
Monitor for late hyperpigmentation; continue high-quality sun protection and consider topical pigmentation inhibitors if advised.

Procedure-specific timelines

Neurotoxin injections (e.g., Botox/Dysport): Minimal barrier disruption. Patients may return to most of their routine quickly but should still prioritize sunscreen and gentle care, particularly around injection sites. Avoid vigorous massaging of treated areas for the first day.
Microneedling: Expect microchannels and possible pinpoint bleeding; growth-factor serums and antioxidant-rich products help but should be introduced per clinician timing. Avoid topical retinoids until healing is confirmed.
Ablative and fractional lasers, deep chemical peels: These disrupt the barrier substantially and require a strict, simplified, long-duration recovery plan. Strong actives and abrasives should remain paused for several weeks to months depending on depth.

How to tailor care to skin type and concerns

Acne-prone or oily skin

Pre-procedure: Favor non-comedogenic hydrators (e.g., hyaluronic acid), gentle exfoliation at low strength and controlled use of adjunct acne treatments as recommended.
Post-procedure: Continue non-comedogenic moisturizers and mineral sunscreens. Hold benzoyl peroxide and other aggressive acne treatments until cleared by your clinician.

Sensitive or rosacea-prone skin

Pre-procedure: Choose anti-inflammatory antioxidants and barrier-repair moisturizers. Avoid new active ingredients before the appointment.
Post-procedure: Use products labeled for sensitive skin, barrier creams, and zinc-based sunscreens. Avoid menthol, eucalyptus, and fragrance altogether.

Hyperpigmentation concerns

Pre-procedure: Stabilize pigment with consistent sunscreen and antioxidant use. Some clinicians prescribe topical pigmentation agents ahead of time for aggressive resurfacing to lower melasma or PIH risk.
Post-procedure: Aggressive sun protection is essential. Many hyperpigmentation cases can be mitigated by strict sunscreen use and anti-inflammatory recovery products.

Aging skin

Pre-procedure: Controlled retinoid discontinuation may be necessary prior to treatment; clinicians will factor in cumulative effects when planning resurfacing intensity.
Post-procedure: Growth factor serums and regenerative creams can enhance remodeling when introduced at the right phase.

Real-world examples

A patient scheduled for a fractional CO2 laser is asked to stop topical tretinoin two weeks prior, adopt a gentle hyaluronic acid–based moisturizer and use mineral sunscreen daily. Post-laser, they receive a prescribed occlusive ointment for the first 48 hours, then switch to a barrier balm and growth factor serum as re-epithelialization advances.
Another patient receiving Botox maintains their daily hydrating serum and mineral SPF. They avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours and return quickly to their usual anti-aging serums within a few days per their provider’s guidance.

Red flags and when to contact your clinician

Healing complications are uncommon when patients follow instructions, but clinicians want prompt reports of certain findings:

Increasing pain, warmth, swelling or redness beyond expected post-procedure levels.
Purulent drainage or expanding crusting that suggests infection.
New or rapidly darkening pigmentation in treated areas.
Fever or systemic symptoms.

If any of the above occur, contact the treating clinic immediately. Early intervention helps prevent scarring and long-term pigment problems.

Common mistakes that undermine results

Restarting retinoids or acids too soon: This often provokes inflammation, compromises the barrier and can lead to pigment issues.
Stacking too many serums during recovery: Complex routines increase irritation risk.
Neglecting sunscreen: UV exposure after procedures accelerates PIH and can blunt the benefits of resurfacing.
Using essential oils, menthol or high-alcohol toners: These sensate ingredients sting compromised skin and worsen inflammation.
Failing to consult the treating clinician before adding new devices or at-home treatments (e.g., LED masks): Timing matters; therapies like red light can aid recovery only when used at the appropriate stage.

Building a practical recovery toolkit

Assemble a small, vetted set of products for the recovery period. Keep the kit simple, portable and clearly labeled:

Basic kit for most procedures

Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
Hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid.
Barrier balm or emollient cream (ceramides, glycerin).
Mineral broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30–50).
Anti-inflammatory serum (vitamin E/green tea or an official post-procedure product).
Cool compresses and sterile gauze if recommended.

Optional, clinician-approved additions

Growth factor serum (introduced once the clinician approves).
Red-light device for at-home use (only after re-epithelialization and clinician approval).
Prescription topical ointments, antibiotics or steroid creams if indicated.

Label each item with intended use and timing (e.g., “Apply morning and night,” “Use only after day 7”) to avoid accidental misuse during the fog of recovery.

Why winter is a preferred season for many treatments

Colder months typically bring lower UV index values and less time spent outdoors. That reduces the risk of immediate post-procedure UV damage and pigment complications. Clinicians report an uptick in scheduled resurfacing and peel procedures in late fall and winter for this reason. Additionally, many people plan these treatments to coincide with a window that allows recovery before important events or warmer months.

Seasonal planning also supports practical considerations: patients often have holidays or travel plans and can arrange procedures with predictable downtime. Still, winter does not eliminate the need for diligent sun protection. Clouds, reflective surfaces and incidental sun exposure still present risks to newly treated skin.

Expert-curated product selections and how to use them

Pre-procedure picks

SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst Exfoliating Booster Serum: Use once daily for 1–2 weeks before select procedures, stopping several days before treatment to avoid excessive reactivity.
Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream: Apply morning and evening to support hydration without clogging pores.
Senté Even Tone Mineral Sunscreen: Daily application and reapplication throughout the day to protect the skin while preparing for treatment.

Post-procedure picks

iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance Plus: Introduced per clinician guidance; designed to reduce downtime and support healing through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components.
BioEffect 3xGF Recovery Serum: Use when the clinician recommends growth factor introduction to help accelerate repair after microneedling or energy-based procedures.
Allies of Skin Molecular Barrier Recovery Cream Balm: Apply to support the barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss, especially after treatments that disrupt the outer layers.
SkinCeuticals Advanced RGN-6 Regenerative Cream: Consider for regenerative support in mid-to-late recovery phases.
EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Face Sunscreen SPF 50: Use daily to protect and neutralize redness; suitable for sensitive, healing skin.
HigherDose Red Light Face Mask: Add only after the skin is cleared by the clinician; can complement collagen stimulation and inflammation reduction.

Select products based on formulation transparency and clinical data where available. When products are marketed for post-procedure use, review the supporting studies or clinician endorsements.

How clinicians evaluate readiness to resume active ingredients

Clinicians assess healing by visual inspection and patient reports. Key indicators that the skin is ready to resume stronger actives include complete re-epithelialization, absence of crusting or open wounds, controlled redness and lack of persistent tenderness. For deep resurfacing, this process may take several weeks; for minimally invasive treatments, it may be days.

When reintroducing retinoids:

Start on a lower frequency (e.g., twice weekly) and build up while monitoring redness or flaking.
Avoid combining with aggressive chemical peels during the initial return-to-actives period.
For darker skin types, clinicians may delay retinoid reintroduction longer to reduce PIH risk.

When starting growth-factor products:

Clinicians often wait until the majority of re-epithelialization occurs, as growth factors assume an intact barrier and will be more effective when inflammation is subsiding.

Red light therapy and at-home devices: timing, benefits, limitations

Red light (near-infrared or low-level laser therapy) has evidence supporting reduced inflammation and enhanced collagen production in some settings. That makes it an attractive adjunct after procedures, particularly once the initial barrier repair is underway.

Key caveats:

Use the device only after receiving clinician approval. Early use on open wounds or actively bleeding skin risks irritation and compromised healing.
Follow device manufacturer guidelines for session length and frequency.
Treat red light as a complement—not a replacement—for topical barrier repair and sunscreen.

Real-world use case A patient three weeks post-microneedling received clinician approval before beginning red-light sessions twice weekly. They combined the sessions with a growth factor serum and a ceramide-rich balm. Over two months, they reported reduced redness and improved skin tone; the clinician documented enhanced collagen density on follow-up imaging.

Practical consultation checklist: what to bring to your appointment

A written list or photos of current topical products, including active ingredient names and prescription medications.
A record of recent procedures or aesthetic treatments.
Any history of pigmentary disorders (e.g., melasma), keloids or poor wound healing.
A planned timeline for events or vacations that could affect procedure scheduling.

Providing complete information allows your clinician to tailor both the in-office plan and the pre/post-product guidance to your needs.

Cost considerations and where to invest

Post-procedure recovery is not the time for bargain-basement experimentation. Prioritize:

A high-quality mineral sunscreen: daily use is non-negotiable.
One effective, gentle barrier cream or balm.
One clinician-recommended recovery serum (if advised).

Premium serums like BioEffect carry higher price tags yet may offer accelerated recovery benefits after specific procedures. For many patients, a single clinically supported serum and a barrier balm provide the most cost-effective combination to protect that procedural investment.

Frequently encountered patient questions answered

FAQ

Q: How long before a procedure should I stop using retinol? A: Common practice is to stop over-the-counter retinols and prescription retinoids at least one to two weeks before a procedure. The treating clinician will provide exact timing based on the specific treatment and your skin history. For aggressive resurfacing, you may be asked to discontinue earlier.

Q: Can I wear makeup the day after a treatment? A: That depends on the procedure. For minimal procedures like some injectables, light, non-irritating makeup may be acceptable after 24 hours, but check with your provider. For resurfacing treatments that create open wounds, avoid makeup until re-epithelialization is complete and your clinician clears you.

Q: Is mineral sunscreen always better after a procedure? A: Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are generally recommended for sensitive or healing skin because they sit on the surface and are less likely to cause irritation. They offer broad protection critical to preventing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Q: When can I start using growth-factor serums like BioEffect after a procedure? A: Growth-factor serums are typically introduced once the skin has re-epithelialized and initial inflammation has subsided. The exact timing varies by procedure. Your clinician will advise when to begin and how to incorporate these products safely.

Q: How soon can I resume chemical exfoliation and retinoids? A: Wait until your clinician confirms the skin has healed. For minor procedures, this might be a few days; for deeper treatments, it could be several weeks to months. Reintroduce actives gradually and monitor for irritation.

Q: Are home devices like red light masks safe to use after professional treatments? A: Red light therapy can support healing when used at the correct stage. Start only after clinician approval. Using these devices too early—while the barrier is still compromised—can irritate or delay healing.

Q: My skin looks darker after treatment. Is that normal? A: Some degree of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is possible, especially in darker skin types, after procedures that disrupt the skin. Strict sun protection and anti-inflammatory post-procedure care reduce this risk. If pigmentation appears to worsen, contact your clinic.

Q: What should I do if I develop increasing pain, pus or fever after a procedure? A: Contact your treating clinician immediately. These symptoms can indicate infection or an adverse reaction requiring prompt evaluation and possibly prescription treatment.

Q: Can I use oil-based products after a procedure? A: Use caution with heavy oils early after procedures that disrupt the barrier. They may trap heat or debris and could increase the risk of irritation for some treatments. Use clinician-recommended barrier balms or emollients instead.

Q: How does seasonality affect scheduling a procedure? A: Many patients schedule resurfacing during cooler months when UV exposure is lower and coverage with clothing is easier. However, proper sun protection remains essential year-round. Plan for required downtime relative to holidays and events.

Q: Do ingredients like vitamin C help during recovery? A: Antioxidants such as vitamin C can be supportive pre- and post-procedure for controlling oxidative stress. Concentration and formulation matter; clinicians often recommend specific antioxidant products suited to healing skin.

Q: Can I combine growth factors, peptides and antioxidants post-procedure? A: Combining supportive ingredients is often beneficial if the skin has healed sufficiently. Introduce products gradually and consult your clinician for a recommended sequence to minimize interaction-driven irritation.

Q: How do I choose between over-the-counter options and clinician-formulated products? A: Prioritize products tested in post-procedure settings where possible. Clinician-formulated or prescription options may offer higher-strength or targeted benefits. OTC products with gentle, well-formulated ingredients can still perform well for many patients.

Q: My provider recommended stopping benzoyl peroxide. Why? A: Benzoyl peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent that can be drying and irritating. After procedures, drying agents increase transepidermal water loss and inflammation, which can hinder healing and increase discomfort.

Q: What role do ceramides play in recovery? A: Ceramides are lipid components crucial for barrier function. Topical ceramide-containing creams help rebuild barrier integrity and reduce tear in the skin’s protective layer, speeding recovery and improving comfort.

Q: Can I drink alcohol after a procedure? A: Alcohol consumed orally does not directly affect the skin the same way topical alcohol-based products do, but it may increase inflammation in some people and impact healing indirectly. Follow your clinician’s guidance regarding alcohol and any prescribed medications.

Q: When should I follow up after my procedure? A: Most clinics schedule routine follow-ups within the first week and again at one month, depending on the treatment. Adhere to your clinic’s timeline and report any concerns between appointments.

Q: Are there specific product brands clinicians trust for post-procedure care? A: Clinician and retailer recommendations in this guide include SkinCeuticals, Medik8, Senté, iS Clinical, BioEffect, Allies of Skin and EltaMD. These brands offer formulations targeted for recovery or clinically validated serums appropriate for post-treatment use. Always confirm product suitability with your provider.

Q: How much sunscreen should I apply? A: Apply a liberal amount—about a nickel- to quarter-sized dollop for the face—and reapply every two hours when exposed to sunlight, or more frequently if sweating or after water exposure. For healing skin, choose physical/mineral formulations and reapply carefully to avoid irritation.

Q: Is sunscreen enough to protect newly treated skin outdoors? A: Sunscreen is necessary but not always sufficient. Combine it with shade, hats and protective clothing. Avoid direct sun exposure during the initial healing period to reduce pigmentation and other complications.

Q: Can procedures accelerate aging if recovery is mismanaged? A: Improper post-procedure care that increases inflammation or pigment changes can compromise results. Proper pre- and post-procedure regimens are designed to enhance the long-term benefits of treatments, not to accelerate aging.

Q: What about prescription topical steroids after procedures? A: Short courses of topical steroids are sometimes prescribed for excessive inflammation or to manage certain reactions. Use only under clinician supervision because prolonged steroid use can thin the skin and delay recovery.

Q: How do I manage peeling or flaking after resurfacing? A: Allow peeling to occur naturally. Use gentle cleansers and barrier creams. Avoid picking or mechanical exfoliation. If peeling is excessive, contact your clinician for tailored care.

Q: Can I swim or use a hot tub during recovery? A: Avoid pools, hot tubs and seawater until your clinician confirms the skin is healed. These environments can introduce bacteria or irritants that raise infection risk.

Q: Should I stop using supplements or topical vitamin A derivatives before treatments? A: Inform your clinician about oral supplements and topical products. In rare cases, specific supplements may influence bleeding risk or healing; the clinician will advise on discontinuation if warranted.

Q: Where can I find products tailored for post-procedure needs? A: Medical-grade retailers and clinician-recommended sources often carry post-procedure kits. Brands are increasingly marketing explicitly for pre- and post-treatment care; choose products supported by clinical use and transparent ingredient lists.

Follow clinician instructions closely. The right combination of pre-treatment preparation and thoughtful, minimalist post-treatment care preserves the procedure’s intended benefits and helps you recover quickly and safely.