
Wrinkle Relaxers
Understand and review contraindications to treatment. These include:
Allergic to cow’s milk protein
Have ever had an allergic reaction to any type of neurotoxin injection before
have a skin infection at site you plan to get injected
pregnant or breastfeeding
patients with allergies to human albumin (small risk of transmission from human albumin used in Type A to provide a larger particle)
infection, inflammation (including acne), or dermatitis of areas to be injected
fever, flu, or cold symptoms
facial asymmetry such as Bell’s Palsy
Patients with neurological disorders including:
Amyotophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gherig’s disease)
Lambert Eaton Disorder
Multiple Sclerosis
Parkinson’s Disease
Antibiotics may potentiate the effects of Dysport/Botox
Taking medication such as aminoglycosides or medications that interfere with neuromuscular transmission may have a potentiated effect
thick sebaceous skin may have very deep wrinkles making them poor candidates
a natural eyelid ptosis may be more susceptible to drooping of the eyelid
Neurotoxin does not diffuse over scar tissue
Due to bruising potential, you should schedule injections at least 2-3 weeks prior to an important event
alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior to injections may increase bruising
blood-thinning medications and herbal supplements 2 weeks prior and 2 weeks after typically increase bruising
BEFORE YOUR WRINKLE RELAXER TREATMENT
Before your treatment we ask that you:
educate yourself on neurotoxin!
Understand the treatment itself, the benefits and risks entailed. It is important to understand that all procedures carry a risk and could end in an unintended outcome, especially if not treated with full recommended dosing. A dosing chart is available on our website.
Do not drink coffee or caffeinated beverages before appointment (to avoid thinning the blood)
Do not get waxed/ dermaplaned or any intense treatment to the skin before appointment.
Do not drink alcohol the day before or the day of treatment if possible to prevent increase bleeding & bruising
Common side effects to prepare for are: redness, pain, swelling, bruising, drooping eyelids, and headaches. A full list of side effects and adverse reactions are available under safety information.
Stop taking specific medications & ask your doctor for approval discontinuing prescribed medications for a minimum of 3 - 5 days prior to and 3 - 5 days post appointment
These medications include: aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners, muscle relaxers, allergy medications, and anitbiotics
most common are: aspirin, ibuprofen, ginseng, fish oil, St. John’s Wort, Vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba
Other measures to take to limit bruising are:
try to not smoke cigarettes before or after appointment
Application of ice before and after the appointment - especially if you are easy to bruise - can help. Ice packs are available from us to take home.
Schedule your appointment at an appropriate time! No need to increase the anxiety around the appointment. Schedule at a time that you can be relaxed! Also, prepare for some swelling and redness at least on the day of.
The treatment is quick & easy. Most patients report little to no pain. We will do our best to make you as comfortable as possible.
AFTER YOUR WRINKLE RELAXER TREATMENT
Continue to prevent bruising as much as possible.
Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours post injections
avoid exercise for an minimum 6 hours post injection. We do suggest waiting 24 hours minimum to avoid metabolism or product - especially heat induced / heavy cardio.
continue to refrain from certain medications listed in pre-care information if you are able.
use ice on areas injected
refrain from rubbing the eyes/ skin in areas injected
Avoid hot environments such as hot- tubs, saunas, or intense work outs for at least 72 hours post injection to prevent product metabolism.
Be aware of all possible adverse reactions and side effects. Know when to contact your injector or provider for further help if necessary.
Please remember, touch-ups cannot take place until 14 days post injection. Some patients may not see full results until the end of the 14 days. This is to allow all previously placed product to fully settle without the possibility of creating complications. Please let your injector know if you have a complication you would like to try to get corrected ASAP so we can get you scheduled as close to two weeks post first injections as possible.
Neurotoxin is indicated to last 3 - 4 months, but will vary per patient. Remember, dose = duration.
Dermal filler
BEFORE YOUR FILLER TREATMENT
Please allow for 2 - 3 weeks of downtime after a filler appointment due to bruising, swelling, and tenderness.
Review the following contraindications to treatment:
current cold sore, blister, active outbreak - if you are prone to cold sores please contact us so we can advise you on how to prepare.
currently or recently taking antibiotics or steroids
severe allergies with a history of severe reactions to any components of filler products
you are allergic to lidocaine or to any gram-positive bacterial proteins used to make hyaluronic acid
you are prone to bleeding or have a bleeding disorder
if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant
history or scars or pigmentation disorders as side effects can occur with hyaluronic acid
recent laster treatments or chemical peel, as there is a possible risk of inflammation at the treatment site or if you plan to get them done soon after
experience skin injury near the sites are at increased risk for side effects
patients undergoing or recently completed chemotherapy or radiation. must be at least 12 months post - treatments.
Preparing for treatment:
The following are multiple different ways to prevent as much bruising as possible. Even if all of these are followed, bruising is always a risk and swelling will happen. We want to ensure you have the best possible outcome with as little down-time as possible. Please prepare accordingly & reach out if you have any questions!
One week prior to injections:
Avoid blood-thinning over-the-counter meds such as advil, aspirin, motrin, ibuprofen, and aleve - you may take Tylenol
Avoid supplements such as St. John’s Wort, Ginkgo Biloba, primrose oil, garlic, gensig, and vitamin E
Consider taking over the counter Arnica supplements if not contraindicated with your current medication regimen . Start taking oral Arnica 7-10 days before treatment. Take as directed on the bottle.
Two days prior to injections:
Avoid topical products such as Tretinoin (Retin-A), Retinol, Retinoids, Glycolic Acid, or any “anti-aging” products.
Avoid waxing, bleaching, tweezing, or using hair removal cream on the area to be treated
stop drinking alcoholic beverages
24 Hours before injections:
Avoid alcohol
Try to avoid caffeine as well if possible, at least on the day of
AFTER YOUR FILLER TREATMENT
To prepare for after your procedure:
Have an ice-pack ready. One will be provided at your appointment, but it is smart to have a few ready in your freezer at home to keep using after your appointment.
Avoid itching, massaging, and picking around the injection sites. Itching can occur for a few days post injections.
Until swelling and redness have resolved, avoid intense heat in treated areas - such as tanning, saunas, hot tubs, or hot wax
Antihistamines can be used to alleviate swelling such as Zyrtec, Claritin, or Benadryl
Avoid drinking alcohol for a few days
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours
If you notice a visible bump, those can be massaged out. After the swelling has resolved, a heat compress such as a warm washcloth can be used while trying to smooth out a bump. Not recommended until post procedure day 2-3.
All firm areas or areas with bumps should resolve by the end of the intended post-treatment care time (1-2 weeks). If you still have concerns after this time, please contact our team so we can evaluate.
Sunscreen & Make-up can be applied but be aware of the small open wounds on your face from injections and try to keep them as clean as possible to prevent infection.
Use a gentle cleanser on treated areas. Avoid harsh products for 2 - 3 days.
Restorative skincare is highly recommended to promote healing.
VI PEEL
BEFORE YOUR VI PEEL
The VI Peel® contains a synergistic blend of powerful ingredients suitable for all skin types. VI Peel® will improve the tone, texture and clarity of the skin; reduce age spots, improve hyperpigmentation (including melasma), soften lines and wrinkles; clear acne skin conditions; reduce or eliminate acne scars; and stimulate the production of collagen, for firmer, more youthful skin.
Contraindications
Patients who are pregnant or who are breast feeding
Patients who have an aspirin, hydroquinone or phenol allergy
Patients who have used oral isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6 months
Patients who have active cold sores, warts, open wounds or history of herpes simple
Patients who are undergoing chemotherapy and or radiation therapy within 6 months
Patients with a history of an autoimmune (i.e. Lupus) or liver disease/disorder as well as any condition that may weaken their immune system
Here are the pre-care instructions for a VI Peel to ensure the best results and minimize potential side effects:
1. Avoid Certain Skincare Products (5-7 Days Before Peel)
Stop using retinoids (Retin-A, Tretinoin), retinols, AHAs (glycolic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, and other exfoliants at least 5–7 days prior.
Avoid hydroquinone or any lightening agents unless specifically instructed by your provider.
Discontinue any acne medications (unless prescribed by a doctor) like Differin, Tazorac, or Accutane.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure & Tanning
Do not use tanning beds or have prolonged sun exposure for at least 1-2 weeks before treatment.
Always wear SPF 30+ daily leading up to your appointment.
3. No Facial Treatments or Hair Removal (7 Days Before)
Avoid waxing, threading, sugaring, or laser hair removal in the treatment area.
No facials, microdermabrasion, or chemical peels at least 1 week prior.
4. Stop Certain Medications (If Advised by Provider)
If you are on antibiotics, steroids, or any photosensitizing medication, consult with your provider.
5. Stay Hydrated & Moisturized
Drink plenty of water and keep your skin well-moisturized leading up to your peel for optimal healing.
6. Inform Your Provider About Medical Conditions & Medications
Let your provider know if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have active cold sores, or any skin sensitivities.
If you have a history of cold sores, an antiviral medication like Valtrex may be recommended before your peel.
7. Avoid Alcohol & Blood Thinners (24-48 Hours Before) if receiving ToxBooster
Reduce alcohol intake and avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and fish oil supplements 24-48 hours before to minimize bruising and irritation.
AFTER YOUR VI PEEL
Safe products to use during peeling: VI Derm Gentle Purifying Cleanser, Post Treatment Repair Cream, SPF 50+. (From your home you can also use a gentle cleanser, Aquaphor, and sunscreen.)
• Days 3, 4 and 5 are the typical days of peeling. By day 6 most exfoliation has subsided.
• Typically, peeling begins on the third day, starting around the mouth then peeling outward. The forehead and neck will be the last areas to peel.
• We recommend cleansing your face prior to showering and keeping your face protected from hot water.
• When cleansing your face use your fingertips only. Avoid using washcloths or facial machine brushes during the first week.
• While the skin is exfoliating avoid pulling, picking, rubbing and any premature removal of skin. This could lead to significant irritation and possible hyperpigmentation. Never force or peel the skin off in sheets.
• When peeling make sure to keep your body hydrated and your skin moisturized.
• The Post Treatment Repair Cream may cause slight sensitivity when first applied but it quickly subsides.
• If you are excessively dry or irritated when peeling, add a light layer of Aquaphor to provide a protective barrier.
Post Peel (7 days after peel appointment)
• Resuming Skin Care Products:
o Non-Actives: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided, usually day 6-7.
o Actives: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided and sensitivity has returned to normal, usually day 7-10.
• Physical Activity / Exercise:
o Refrain for 72-96 hours after peel application. Inducing excessive perspiration can lead to PIH or blistering.
• Scheduling the Next VI Peel:
o VI Peels should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks (for best results)
• Additional Skincare Treatments:
o It is recommended to wait for a minimum of 2 weeks before any treatment that creates exfoliation of the skin. (Includes facials, extractions, waxing, and threading)
o Consult with your practitioner for other treatment options.