Subnovii® Plasma Pen Pre- and Post-Treatment Instructions
Pre-treatment instructions:
If you have a special event or vacation coming up, please keep in mind that you may want to schedule your treatment at least 2 weeks in advance. Usual downtime is approximately 1-2 weeks for healing.
To enhance results and limit complications, you will be prescribed a ZO® program based on your skin type 4-6 weeks prior to having your treatment. Pigment Control™ and Pigment Control + Blending™ plus tretinoin may be used in patients with a high risk for pigmentation problems. It is mandatory to complete this pre-conditioning prior to your laser procedure.
Discontinue the use of topical retinoids and tretinoin (such as Retinol, Retin-A®, Renova®, Differin®,Tazorac®, and Refissa®) 4-5 days prior to treatment.
Discontinue the use of alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, etc.), beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, retinols, and other potentially irritating products 2-3 days prior to treatment.
Avoid tanning (in sun or tanning bed), including the use of sunless tanner, 2 weeks prior to your treatment.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, Niacin supplement, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, refined carbohydrates, spicy foods and cigarettes 24-48 hours before and after your treatment. These items may contribute to increased swelling or irritation.
It is recommended to discontinue the use of Aspirin, Motrin, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, or any other essential fatty acids at least 3 days to 1 week before and after treatment to minimize bruising or bleeding. Please consult with your primary provider prior to discontinuing any medications.
If you have a history of oral herpes infection ("cold sores") and are receiving treatment around the mouth, you will need to start an anti-viral medication (i.e., acyclovir or valacyclovir) one day prior to treatment and continue for 5 days. Notify the office if you need a prescription.
Post-treatment instructions:
Your skin will be red, swollen, and scab post-treatment. DO NOT pick the scabs. Once scabs fall off, the skin will be pink and delicate.
You may apply clean, cold compresses to minimize discomfort. 2 tablets of Tylenol 500mg every 6 hours may also be helpful. Try to avoid anti-inflammatories like Advil, Aspirin, Aleve, Ibuprofen, etc.
We recommend that you sleep with your head elevated and on a clean pillowcase for the first several days following treatment. This helps to minimize swelling and prevent infection.
You should only use the Subnovii post-care cream and other skincare products provided to you for the first week after treatment. Gently wash your face with a cleanser and air dry OR dry your face with a blow drier on low heat or no heat. DO NOT use a towel.
Mineral-based makeup may be applied once the skin has finished peeling. Once the dry, dotted areas are gone, you may resume your regular skincare routine.
While your skin is healing and for at least four weeks after, it is especially important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 45 or higher and wear a wide-brim hat when outdoors.
You may resume exercise and other extracurricular activities once skin is nearly healed and swelling has resolved.
Before leaving our office on the day of treatment, please schedule a follow-up appointment for 4 weeks.
