Pre & Post Care
At Arlani Medspa, we understand that optimal results are not only achieved through the treatment itself, but also through careful pre and post-treatment care. Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction is our top priority, and as such, we've provided pre and post-care guidelines for all our treatments to help you prepare for and recover from your appointment effectively.
Botox / Dysport
During the consultation for Botox or Dysport treatments, our expert injectors will take the time to understand your needs and craft a unique treatment plan that suits you best. They will assess your features and condition to decide whether Botox or Dysport would be more beneficial, as well as determine the precise amount of units required for the most optimal results.
- Have a light meal or snack prior to your appointment.
- Avoid the consumption of Aspirin, Motrin, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, or any other essential fatty acids that can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Avoid lying down flat for at least 4 hours post-treatment.
- Continue avoiding substances listed in the pre-care section for at least 3 days after treatment.
- Refrain from other cosmetic treatments such as laser, ultrasound, peels, facials, or micro-dermabrasion for 2 weeks following your Dysport® or Botox® session.
- Try to avoid makeup until the next day; if makeup is necessary, use high-quality mineral makeup.
- If you experience any discomfort, swelling, redness, blisters, or itching, contact your provider immediately.
- Results of the treatment may take 2-10 days to manifest, and any touch-up treatments should be scheduled no later than 2 weeks following the initial session.
- Avoid wearing hats or headbands for 24 hours post-treatment.
- Regular treatments are advised every 4-6 months to maintain optimal results.
Laser Hair Removal
In your initial consultation for Laser Hair Removal, our team will evaluate your suitability for the treatment and create a detailed plan tailored specifically to you. Before proceeding with the treatment, your technician will carefully prepare the designated area and walk you through the process. Safety is of utmost importance during the procedure, and as such, you will be provided with protective eyewear. We strive to ensure your comfort is maintained throughout the treatment.
- Shower/bathe and clean your skin thoroughly before treatment, avoiding lotions, oils, and fragrances.
- Shave the treatment area but avoid waxing, tweezing, or chemical depilatories.
- Avoid sun exposure and self-tanning lotions for two weeks prior to treatment.
- Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
- Avoid topical products that cause photosensitivity for three days prior to treatment.
- Refrain from other treatments such as BOTOX® injections, dermal filler injections, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion for at least 14 days prior to your appointment.
- Mild redness, swelling, or a sensation akin to a sunburn post-treatment is normal.
- Expect gradual hair shedding over two weeks.
- Avoid excessive heat exposure and sun exposure for 24 hours and two weeks respectively post-treatment.
- Continue applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
- Avoid photosensitive topical products for three days post-treatment.
- Refrain from other treatments such as BOTOX® injections, dermal filler injections, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion for at least 14 days post-treatment.
- Schedule follow-up treatments as follows:
- Facial Areas: Every 4-6 weeks
- Trunk Areas: Every 6-8 weeks
- Leg Areas: Every 8-10 weeks
Dermal Fillers
Dermal Fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines and soften creases, or enhance facial contours. They can address a variety of common concerns including lifting of the cheeks, smoothing of deep lines around the mouth, and plumping of the lips. The procedure is minimally invasive and generally takes between 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being treated. The results are immediate and can last anywhere from 3 to 9 months, depending on the type of filler used and the individual’s metabolism.
- Schedule your treatment at least 2 weeks before any special event.
- Consider taking Arnica supplements 3-5 days prior to reduce bruising.
- Avoid invasive procedures, certain supplements, and specific food & drink items 24-48 hours before the treatment.
- If you have frequent cold sores or develop any cold/flu, cold sore, blemish, or rash before your appointment, pre-treatment medication or rescheduling might be required.
- Discontinue Retin-A 2-3 days prior, and avoid other cosmetic treatments for 2 weeks before the treatment.
- Refrain from touching the treated area for 6 hours post-treatment.
- Avoid vigorous exercise, sun and heat exposure for 3 days, and straw usage for up to 1 week after lip injections.
- Avoid certain supplements and specific food & drink items 24-48 hours after the treatment.
- Avoid other cosmetic treatments for 2 weeks post-treatment.
- Minimize makeup or lipstick usage for a day post-treatment.
- Use ice packs on the treated area for 10 minutes at a time over 24 hours post-treatment.
- Report immediately if you experience increased pain, swelling, redness, blisters, or itching post-treatment.
- Keep in mind that asymmetry up to two weeks post-injection is normal.
- Dermal fillers can last anywhere between 3-9 months.
Sculptra
Sculptra is a unique dermal filler made from poly-L-lactic acid, stimulating natural collagen production to increase facial volume lost to aging. Treatment subtly restores volume, softens lines, and refines facial contours.
- Avoid aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, etc., for 1-2 weeks prior, if approved by your physician.
- Consider taking Arnica supplements 3-5 days prior to reduce bruising.
- Inform injector about any medical history/allergies.
- Schedule the procedure at least 2 weeks before a big event.
- Massage treated areas five times a day for 5 days post-treatment.
- Ice treated areas for about 10 minutes a few times on the treatment day.
- You may experience redness, swelling, and bruising for the first 2-7 days.
- If bruising occurs, continue Arnica supplements, apply Arnica gel, or take Bromelain supplements.
- One treatment annually is recommended.
PRP Hair Treatments
With PRP Hair Treatments, our first step is a consultation to assess your eligibility. We conduct a meticulous review of your health history before proceeding. Blood is drawn for the treatment and processed in a centrifuge to isolate the plasma. Your esthetician will discuss the procedure and treatment areas with you in depth, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of what the process involves.
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen, Motrin, Naproxen, Aleve for 3 days prior to treatment.
- Discontinue blood-thinning medications or supplements (multivitamin, Vitamin E/A, Fish Oil, Aspirin) one week prior to treatment. Consult with your provider if these are taken for a medical condition.
- Refrain from alcohol and smoking for three days prior to your PRP treatment.
- Hydrate well the day before and on the day of the procedure.
- Eat a normal breakfast/lunch on the day of your PRP treatment. Consider eating a snack before your appointment.
- Feel free to wash your hair the morning of the PRP treatment.
- You may color your hair up to 3 days prior to the treatment.
- Avoid applying ice or heat to the treated area for 72 hours.
- Stay out of saunas and hot tubs for 24 hours.
- Best results are usually seen with a series of 3-6 treatments.
- Treatments should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks.
Morpheus8
With Morpheus8 treatments, our first step is a consultation to see if you’re the right fit. Our esthetician will inquire about your health history to make sure there’s nothing that could interfere with the treatment. After we understand your treatment goals and decide on the area(s) to be treated, the esthetician will clean and prepare the skin for the procedure. We’re big on keeping things clear and straightforward, so our esthetician will walk you through each part of the Morpheus8 process. This way, you’ll know exactly what’s going on and what to expect.
- Arrive with a clean face, free of makeup.
- Shave the area that will be treated.
- Avoid taking any blood thinners.
- Avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks prior to your treatment.
- Refrain from using tanning beds or self-tanners for 2 weeks before your treatment.
- No exercise, saunas, or hot tubs for 24 hours after the procedure.
- Do not wear makeup or apply SPF for 24 hours.
- Avoid using active skincare products such as retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid for 3-5 days.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for 2 weeks after your treatment.
- A series of 3-6 treatments is recommended for best results.
- Treatments should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks.
Microneedling / Vampire Facials
Microneedling, also known as a Vampire Facial, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to rejuvenate the skin by triggering the body’s self-healing mechanisms. A device with fine needles is used to create tiny punctures in the top layer of the skin, which triggers the body to create new collagen and elastin during the healing process. This procedure can result in smoother, firmer, and more toned skin.
Following a successful consultation that deems you fit for the procedure, our esthetician will ask necessary health questions to prevent any complications. Before the procedure begins, your treatment area will be tidied up and prepped. For your comfort and understanding, our esthetician will guide you through each phase of the treatment, ensuring a predictable and smooth process
- Avoid using Retin-A products or any other skin-irritating treatments for 5 days prior to your procedure.
- Ensure your skin is not sunburned before the treatment. Microneedling is not advised on sunburned skin.
- If you experience an extreme breakout or have open lesions, or if you have used Accutane within the last 8 months, we will need to reschedule your treatment.
- Stay away from Aspirin, Ibuprofen, fish oil, and other blood-thinning medications for a week before your treatment.
- Stay well hydrated. It’s much easier to draw blood from a hydrated person, especially if your treatment involves PRP (platelet-rich plasma), commonly used in vampire facials.
- You may look like you have a moderate to severe sunburn immediately after your treatment, and your skin may feel warm and tighter than usual. This is a normal reaction and will subside after 24-48 hours.
- Your esthetician will guide you on post-procedure skincare, focusing on products that soothe, calm, and protect the skin.
- Treat your skin gently for at least 3 days following the treatment. You can resume your usual skincare routine after Day 3.
- Be sure to apply sunscreen diligently, as your skin may be more sensitive to sun exposure.
- Refrain from using saunas, hot tubs, and avoid exercising for 24 hours after your treatment.
- Avoid applying makeup for 24 hours post-treatment to let your skin breathe and recover.
- Avoid direct sun exposure until your skin is fully healed.
- Do not use Retinol or scrub your face for at least 3 days post-treatment.
- A series of 3-6 treatments is recommended for optimal results.
- Treatments should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks.
Chemical Peel
A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the top layers. The skin that grows back after a chemical peel is smoother and younger-looking. Chemical peels are used to treat wrinkles, skin discoloration and scars, typically on the face.
In your initial consultation, we’ll evaluate your eligibility for the procedure. Your esthetician will inquire about your health history to ensure a safe treatment process. Your skin will be cleaned and prepped before the procedure begins. You’ll be guided through each step of the treatment, making sure you understand and feel comfortable with the entire process.
- If you have been using Accutane, it’s essential to stop its use at least 8 months prior to your chemical peel treatment.
- Avoid using active skincare products, such as retinol or acids (glycolic/salicylic), for 3-5 days prior to your treatment.
- A chemical peel should not be performed on sunburned skin. If your skin is sunburned, your treatment will need to be rescheduled until your skin has fully recovered.
- Avoid vigorous exercise, saunas, and hot tubs for 24 hours post-treatment.
- Do not apply makeup or SPF for the first 24 hours after your treatment.
- Continue avoiding active skincare products, such as retinol or acids (glycolic/salicylic), for 3-5 days following your treatment.
- Protect your newly peeled skin from the sun. It’s critical to avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks after your treatment.
- To achieve the best results, a series of 3-6 treatments is recommended.
- Treatments should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks.
IPL - Intense Pulsed Light
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is a non-invasive treatment that targets the lower layers of skin (dermis) without affecting the top layers (epidermis). It is used to treat various skin conditions such as age spots, sun damage, freckles, birthmarks, varicose veins, broken blood vessels on your face, rosacea, and hair removal.
During the consultation, your laser technician will assess your skin condition and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the treatment. The process will involve a comprehensive discussion about your recent health history and any potential contraindications. Your technician will also consider your treatment expectations and clarify the areas you want to be treated.
Before the treatment begins, the area will be cleansed and prepared. During the procedure, you will be required to wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the intense light. Your technician will guide you through each step to ensure your comfort and safety.
- If facial hair is present in the area to be treated, ensure it is cleanly shaved.
- Avoid sun exposure and use of UV tanning beds for two weeks before treatment. This also includes self-tanning lotions and oils.
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or more daily on any sun-exposed areas to be treated.
- Avoid topical products that cause photosensitivity (e.g., hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, retinols, and benzoyl peroxide) in the treatment area one week before treatment.
- Inform us about any new or different medications you’re taking, including antibiotics, prior to your appointment.
- Avoid BOTOX® injections, dermal filler injections, chemical peels or microdermabrasion in the treatment area for at least 14 days before IPL.
- Redness and swelling in the treatment area are normal. Pigmentation will darken and may resemble coffee grounds. Do not pick or exfoliate; it will slough off naturally.
- Improper post-treatment care, such as excessive heat or sun exposure, can increase the risk of scarring, pigmentation changes, and skin texture changes. Avoid excessive heat and sun exposure for two weeks after treatment.
- Continue using a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or above daily.
- Do not use any photosensitivity-causing topical products for three days after treatment.
- Avoid BOTOX® injections, dermal filler injections, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion in the treatment area for at least 14 days after IPL.
- To achieve the best results, a series of 3-6 treatments is recommended.
- Treatments should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks.
Hormone Pellet Therapy
Hormone Pellet Therapy is a treatment that aims to balance hormones in the body. It involves the insertion of tiny hormone pellets under the skin, usually in the hip/buttock area, which gradually releases small doses of hormones providing optimal therapy.
During the consultation, your provider will determine whether you are a suitable candidate for hormone pellets. This involves a comprehensive discussion about your recent health history to identify any potential contraindications. The treatment area will be cleansed and prepared for pellet insertion, and your provider will walk you through the entire process to ensure your comfort and understanding.
- Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other blood-thinning products for 1 week prior to the procedure.
- Be aware that you will not be able to engage in strenuous exercise for 5-7 days after the pellet is inserted.
- Women should avoid vigorous physical activity for 2 days, and men for 7 days.
- You can shower 24 hours after the procedure.
- Applying an ice pack following the procedure can help reduce swelling or bruising.
- The gauze dressing should be removed after 24 hours.
- Steri-strips (skin tape) should be left on until they begin to curl at the edges, which usually takes 5-7 days.
- Mild redness around the small incision and discomfort for up to 72 hours after the procedure are normal.
- Infections are very rare but if redness, swelling, or tenderness increases after 48 hours, it may indicate an infection. In such cases, please call our office as you may need antibiotics.
- Hormone pellets usually last 3-5 months in women and 4-6 months in men. The exact timing can vary based on individual metabolism, lifestyle, and stress levels.
- Regular follow-ups will be scheduled to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as necessary.
Microblading
Microblading is a semi-permanent makeup procedure that enhances the eyebrows’ shape and density. During the initial consultation, your esthetician will ask relevant questions about your recent health history to ensure there are no contraindications for microblading. For the procedure, the brow area will be numbed with a topical cream and then mapped out. Your esthetician will walk you through the entire process to ensure a comfortable and surprise-free experience.
- Avoid aspirin, Vitamin E, Niacin, or Advil/Ibuprofen 48 hours before the procedure.
- Expect the treated area to appear darker and bolder in color immediately after the procedure. This can last up to a week while the initial healing process occurs.
- Minimal swelling and redness usually disappear within 24-48 hours.
- Use the soft gauze provided in the aftercare bag to dab the treated area every hour after the procedure, while awake. This helps absorb excess fluid and prevents scabbing.
- After two days, start applying a balm 3-4 times a day to the area for 10 days.
- Keep the treated area dry for the first three days. You can gently cleanse your tattoo normally with green soap after day 3. Avoid scrubbing the area for about two weeks.
- Avoid sweating for the first 3 days. After day three, resume light workouts, avoiding heavy workouts such as HIIT, hot yoga, or heavy cardio for 2 weeks.
- Do not apply make-up to the treated area for the first 2 weeks.
- Do not pick or scratch at dry skin/flakiness; allow the skin to fall off naturally.
- After 2 weeks, apply sunscreen over the treated area to avoid fading and discoloration of the pigment. Avoid glycolic acid, Retin-A, and facial peeling products.
A touch-up is recommended 6 weeks after your first appointment, and then every 10-12 months thereafter. Regular touch-ups will keep your brows looking fresh and sharp.
Piercings
In a piercing consultation, we’ll ask you a few important questions about your recent health history to ensure there are no contraindications for the piercing(s). The area will then be cleansed and prepared for the piercing(s). Our goal is to ensure that you’re comfortable and aware of each step in the process.
- The initial piercing(s) will be performed using surgical steel or titanium flat back earrings. These metals are hypoallergenic, affordable, and common for initial piercings. However, they do contain a trace amount of nickel. If you’re concerned about any possible reactions, please let us know as soon as possible.
- Make sure to eat something before your appointment. A light snack an hour or two before is ideal. Avoid having a heavy meal immediately prior to the procedure to avoid nausea. We’ll have a few snack and drink options available if you need something immediately after your piercing to help level out your blood sugar levels, which can sometimes dip after getting pierced.
- We don’t provide aftercare solution, so you’ll need to have some on hand by the day of your appointment for cleaning that night.
- Clean your piercing(s) only with a sterile saline solution. You can find it on Amazon, at Walmart, or most drug/grocery stores.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before cleaning or touching your piercing for any reason.
- Avoid soaps with fragrances or dyes, hydrogen peroxide, or rubbing alcohol.
- For the first 3-5 days, clean your piercing(s) morning and night. After that, clean them daily as needed.
- Do not turn or rotate your jewelry as it can cause scar tissue, prolong the healing process, and potentially lead to keloids (bumps around the piercing site).
- Expect some bleeding, bruising, swelling, redness and soreness/mild pain at first. You may also experience some discoloration, itching, and/or a whitish-yellow fluid forming a crust on the jewelry.
- Be patient during the healing process. Your piercing may seem healed before the healing process is finished. This is because piercings heal from the outside in.
- Resist the temptation to change your jewelry prematurely. Piercings can close if jewelry is removed prior to healing.
- Lobe piercings typically heal within 6-8 weeks.
- Cartilage piercings usually take between 4-12 months to heal.
Please note that these are average healing times. Each person’s body is different, and healing times can vary greatly.