Virtue® Radiofrequency Microneedling with Tetra® CoolPeel Pre- and Post-Treatment Instructions

Pre-treatment instructions:

• This treatment is safe for patients of all skin types, but patients prone to hyperpigmentation will be prescribed a 4-week pre-treatment skincare program in order to minimize post-treatment complication. It is mandatory to complete this pre-conditioning prior to your procedure if recommended.
• 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 (salacylic 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.
• If you have a history of oral herpes infection ("cold sores"), 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:

• You may feel a warm, sunburned sensation for a few hours post-treatment.
• 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 couple days following treatment. This helps to minimize swelling and prevent infection.
• You may notice dry, dotted areas which will turn reddish-brown and then come off in3-7 days. Do not pick or force off.
• SKINCARE Protocol
• Day of treatment: Cover the face in a thin layer of Copper Mask to keep skin hydrated. Do not wash your face. Do not use any other skincare.
• Post-procedure Day 1-4 You may gently wash your skin with a mild cleanser such as ZO Skin Health Gentle Cleanser twice a day. Apply 1 pump of PLATED serum (if purchased) AM and PM, wait 5 minutes for the PLATED to absorb, and then apply a thin layer of Copper Mask. Copper Mask can be reapplied throughout the day as needed for hydration.
• Starting on Day 5-7, once skin is healed, you may begin using your regular skin care routine. Use the PLATED only once a day, morning or evening, after washing and toning the skin. If you still have Copper Mask left and desire additional hydration, continue to use it as the last step in your routine, as needed.
• Makeup can be applied after 24 hours, but it’s best if mineral based to allow the skin to continue to breathe and heal.
• Avoid intense workouts and other conditions where you will sweat significantly for 48 hours.
• Having a sandpaper texture to the skin for 3-4 days is normal.
• Avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks post-treatment and use SPF 30+ daily. Your skin will be more sensitive and prone to burning.

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