Pre & Post-Care

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns prior to your appointment.

Lasers and Radiofrequency

IPL
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IPL Pre & Post Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • Avoid sun exposure for four weeks prior to treatment and use SPF 30 daily to ensure coverage against UVB and UBA rays.
  • Do not use self-tanning products for four weeks prior to and/or post treatment.
  • Discontinue use of Tretinoin type products (Renova, Tretinoin, Retin A, Retin A Micro, Tri-Luma, Solage, etc.) at least 2 or 3 days prior to treatment.
  • If you have a history of frequent cold sores, begin prophylactic treatment with Valtrex or similar no later than the day prior to IPL.
  • Notify the office if you develop a cold sore, acne, open lesions in the area being treated, or experience any type of illness prior to your treatment.
  • Avoid, if possible, Ibuprofen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for 3 days prior to treatment.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • You may experience a sunburned sensation immediately following treatment. Some light swelling, but it is rare to have significant swelling. Contact the office if this occurs.
  • Darkening of freckles and other areas is normal. If this occurs, do not pick or exfoliate the areas. They will flake off or lighten on their own over the next week if on the face and over the next several weeks if on the body.
  • If you experience a burn, gently cleanse the area and use hydrocortisone cream on the area several times a day for the next week. If the mark opens, also use antibiotic ointment over the hydrocortisone cream. Please notify us immediately of any burns.
  • Use SPF 30 or higher daily on treated area if exposed.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Laser Hair Reduction Pre & Post Care Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • You must shave the hair of the body part to be treated.
  • Do not wax, pluck, or use depilatories during your series of laser hair reduction treatments.
  • Avoid unprotected sun exposure for 4 weeks prior to treatment and use SPF 30 daily to ensure coverage against UVB and UVA rays.
  • Do not use self-tanning products for four weeks prior to and/or post treatment.
  • Discontinue use of Tretinoin type products (Renova, Tretinoin, Retin A, Retin A Micro, Tri-Luma, Solage, etc.) or Hydroquinone at least 2 or 3 days prior to treatment.
  • Many medications that are sun sensitive will also make you more sensitive to the laser. Please disclose any medications that you may be taking.
  • If you have a history of frequent cold sores in the area being treated, begin prophylactic treatment with Valtrex or similar no later than the day prior to your laser hair treatment.
  • Notify the office if you develop a cold sore, acne, open lesions in the area being treated, or experience any type of illness prior to your treatment.
  • REMEMBER – Laser hair reduction is never 100%. The industry standard is 75 to 90% reduction in the hairs. Not all hairs will be destroyed. Hormones can cause hair to grow back.
POST-Treatment Instructions

You may experience small red bumps around the hair follicle. This is normal and expected. Do not pick, rub or scratch these until they have cleared. Your skin overall may be sensitive for several days following your laser hair removal treatment.

  • If your skin scabs or crusts, or you experience a burn, do not pick, rub or scratch these areas. Doing so can result in infection, permanent pigment changes in your skin or even scarring. Gently cleanse the area and apply hydrocortisone cream several times a day for one week. If the area is open, also apply a layer of antibiotic ointment over the hydrocortisone cream. Please contact us immediately if you experience any burns.
  • Do not sunbathe for at least 4 weeks following your treatment. If you need to be out in the sun, wear an SPF 30 minimum.
  • Avoid swimming, hot tubs and saunas for several days following your treatment.
  • It can take several weeks for the hair in the treated area to “fall out” (push up and out of the follicle). This time frame is normal.
  • Do not expect your hair to “not grow back” after a single session. Laser hair removal is a process.
  • Subsequent treatment sessions should be 4 to 6 weeks if done on the face and 6 to 8 weeks if done on the body.
  • Although rare, infection in the treated area is possible. Signs of infection may include redness and tenderness in the infected area and fever. Should you develop an infection, antibiotics may be necessary. Please contact us should you have any concerns.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Non-Ablative Fractional Laser Pre and Post Care Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • DO avoid tanning or tanning bed use a month before the laser procedure.
  • Do NOT use exfoliants such as Retin-A, Renova, Tazorac, or glycolic acid for about 3 days prior to procedure.
  • Do come to the appointment with the treatment area clean, free of any lotions or creams.
  • DO shave any hair in the area to be treated.
  • DO let the laser technician or physician know if you have a history of frequent cold sores or oral herpes, as you may need to take an oral anti-viral medication 3 days prior to the procedure.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • DO use ice packs to reduce swelling as needed in the first 24 hours.
  • Expect mild redness and possible swelling for 3-5 days.
  • DO avoid sun exposure for 4 weeks after treatment. Wear a broad-rim hat and sunglasses.
  • DO use sunscreen once the skin is not sensitive to the touch (often 24-48 hours).
  • DO keep skin hydrated during the healing process.
  • DO shower as usual, using a gentle cleanser on the treated area.
  • DO feel free to apply make-up the day following your treatment unless there are areas of broken skin.
  • Do NOT undergo or use exfoliants, scrubbing, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, facials, shaving, and waxing on the treated areas for 2 weeks. Follow-Up 3-5 sessions scheduled about 1 month apart may be necessary. Treatment consistency is very important to achieve maximal improvement.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Radiofrequency Pre and Post Care Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • DO NOT undergo the procedure if you have a PACEMAKER, INTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR, OR ANY ACTIVE IMPLANTED DEVICE WITH AN ON/OFF SWITCH.
  • Do NOT undergo any skin peel or laser procedures for 2 weeks prior to the procedure.
  • Do NOT wear any make-up, lotions, or creams on the treatment area on the day of treatment.
  • If you have a history of cold sores, please DO let the nurse or physician know.
  • DO hydrate well the day of and day after treatment as this will result in a more comfortable and effective treatment.
  • Take off any jewelry and do not touch anything metal, including your phone. We will have you remove your bra before treatment if it has a metal underwire.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • DO hydrate well after treatment as this may produce a better result.
  • DO NOT vigorously rub the skin after treatment, DO gently wash your face and continue with your usual skincare routine.
  • DO wait 7 days before resuming the use of Retin-a (tretinoin), Renova, Differin, Tazorac, Ziana, Veltin, Atralin, glycolic acids or any other exfoliating agents such as a Clarisonic Brush.
  • DO expect some possible tenderness, swelling, warmth, and redness on the treated areas for a few days to a week after treatment.
  • If you were instructed to take an antiviral medication, DO complete the prescribed course.
  • DO schedule your treatments 1-4 weeks apart to maximize results.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

SculpSure Post Treatment Instructions

POST-Treatment Instructions
  • Gently Massage the area twice a day for 5-10 minutes. Massage should be continued until your next treatment or for 12 weeks if you have only one treatment.
  • Staying well hydrated and engaging in light physical activity helps mobilize the disrupted fat for processing through the lymphatic system. We encourage you to drink at least 60 ounces of water a day and take a daily walk or continue your regular exercise routine.
  • You may experience mildly pink or red skin, tenderness or discomfort, swelling, tissue firmness or nodules in the treated areas. These are expected side effects that usually resolve within a few weeks.
  • Tenderness may occur on the day of treatment and can last up to two weeks.
  • If needed, use a cold compress and/or acetaminophen to help relieve tenderness.
  • You may resume your normal daily activities, including exercise, immediately after your SculpSure treatment.
  • Contact your physician if you have any concerns about your treatment areas such as increasing tenderness or swelling several days after your treatment, or if you develop blisters, hardened areas, or nodules.

Injectables

Botox/Dysport
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Botox/Dysport Pre & Post Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • Avoid the following for up to 1 week pre injection: Aspirin, NSAIDS (Ibuprofen), Ginko Biloba, Garlic Supplements, Green Tea, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids to decrease your risk of bruising.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • Do not participate in activities that include heavy lifting, vigorous exercise or straining for 4-5 hours (it takes approximately 2-3 hours for Botox/Dysport to bind to the nerve and you do not want to increase circulation during that time).
  • Do not rub, touch, or manipulate areas where Botox/Dysport were injected for 4-5 hours.
  • Bruising in the area injected is normal although rarely occurs, especially if treated around the eyes. Bruising can last up to several days. Using/taking Arnica Montana or eating pineapple before and after treatment may help diminish bruising.
  • It may take up to 14 days for Botox/Dysport to take full effect.
  • A follow-up visit at 2 weeks may be suggested to access the results of your treatment, especially if you are a first-time client. If the desired correction is not achieved, you may consider the purchase of additional Botox/Dysport for injection. Additional units are included at your follow up for first time treatments.
  • Regular injections usually yield a longer lasting Botox/Dysport result.
  • If your upper lip was treated you may not be able to drink through a straw, whistle, or enunciate some words for approximately 2 weeks.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Filler Pre and Post Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • This treatment is not recommended if you have an important event within 2 to 4 weeks of injection due to potential for bruising and swelling.
  • Avoid the following for up to 1-week pre injection: Aspirin, NSAIDS (Ibuprofen), Ginko Biloba, Garlic Supplements, Green Tea, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • Do not touch, rub, or manipulate areas for the first 24 hours following treatment.
  • Lumps in the injected area are normal and typically dissipate over the next several months. These lumps may be gently massaged if your clinician has instructed you to do so.
  • Continue to ice or use cool compresses without pressing on the injected areas for the first 48 hours as recommended by your practitioner.
  • Sleep with head elevated for the first 1-2 nights depending on level of swelling and bruising.
  • Avoid vigorous exercise and heat for 2 days.
  • It is best to avoid make-up for the first 12-24 hours.
  • Bruising in the area injected is normal and expected, especially if treated around the mouth. Bruising usually lasts one week but can last up to several weeks. Eating pineapple or taking Arnica Montana may help decrease the amount of bruising.
  • Do not apply products that are potentially irritating for 2 days (Retin-A, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, etc).
  • Avoid intense heat (sunbathing) or extreme cold for the first 2 weeks to avoid further inflammation to the area.
  • Touch-ups may be done in 2 weeks if needed, but waiting 6 to 8 weeks is recommended.
  • Avoid laser, IPL or skin tightening treatments of the area for at least 2-3 weeks, especially treatments that create heat in the dermis.
  • Avoid dental appointments, general anesthesia, and using straws for 2 weeks after lip filler. After lip filler, do keep your lips hydrated.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

PDO ThreadLift Pre and Post Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • It is ideal to schedule this procedure 3 weeks prior to a big event. 
  • If you have a history of medication allergies, anaphylaxis, or any other medical problems, please inform one of our team.
  • You may have some bruising or swelling after this procedure. Over the counter Arnica supplements have been shown to decrease swelling. You may begin taking them 3 days prior to treatment. 
  • Do NOT use Aspirin, Motrin, Advil, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, gingko biloba, fish oil, St. John’s Wort, garlic pills, or other anti-inflammatory medications for 1-2 weeks prior if okay with your primary care physician as they can increase the risk of bruising.
  • You may take Tylenol for mild pain or headaches.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • DO NOT massage areas where the threads are placed unless instructed
  • Treated areas may be slightly red, swollen, slightly irregular and bruised for the first 2-5 days and this will gradually decrease.
  • DO NOT get a facial or a massage in treated areas for 2 weeks after your procedure.
  • AVOID strenuous workouts for 24 hours if possible.
  • If bruising occurs, you may continue Arnica supplements or apply topical Arnica gel, eat pineapple juice, and/or take Bromelain supplements to help bruising resolve faster.
  • DO NOT undergo dental procedures for 3 to 4 weeks if areas treated were around the mouth.
  • You can massage small, treated areas ONLY if you notice slight puckering or irregularity in an area if instructed by your provider. 
  • Please call the office if you notice any threads extruding from the skin.
  • Your follow up session 1 month post treatment is recommended.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

PRF Pre-Post Care Instructions

We cannot treat if: pregnant, nursing, diagnosis of any hematological disorder, recent (within 2 weeks) active infection, or during an autoimmune condition flare up.

Please Avoid and Call Us If:
  • Facial surgeries/trauma within the last 8 weeks.
  • Any use of Aspirin within the last two weeks (do NOT stop taking any prescribed anticoagulants for this procedure unless cleared by your prescribing practitioner).
  • Significant event (i.e. wedding, photo shoot) within two weeks after treatment as it can take up to 2 weeks for any bruising and swelling to subside.
PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink at least 64 oz of water and eat a good snack before coming to prepare for the blood draw.
  • Take 2000 mg of Vitamin C daily before your treatment. The earlier you start, the better!
  • Avoid Omega 3s, Turmeric, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba, Garlic Supplements for 7 days prior.
  • To lessen your chance of irritation & redness, pause the use of Retinol & exfoliating acids 3 days before your treatment & for 3 days after.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • Do not massage the treatment area.
  • Do not exercise for 24-48 hours.
  • Continue to avoid Aspirin and NSAIDS for 2 weeks post-procedure (do NOT stop taking any prescribed anticoagulants for this procedure unless cleared by your prescribing practitioner).
  • If you are having pain or soreness, it is okay to take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) as directed per package recommendations.
  • Avoid hot baths, saunas, and steam rooms for 3 days.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Sculptra Pre and Post Treatment Instructions

Remember, Sculptra Aesthetic works by gradually replacing lost collagen. It provides improvements subtly without making it look like you’ve had work done. Visible results may not be seen for 3-6 months. The results can last more than two years and as long as your own collagen lasts.

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • This treatment is not recommended if you have an important event within 2 weeks of injection due to potential for bruising and swelling.
  • Avoid the following for up to 1-week pre and post injection: Aspirin, NSAIDS (Ibuprofen), Ginko Biloba, Garlic Supplements, Green Tea, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • DO massage the treated areas 2 times a day for about 5 minutes for 5 days after treatment.
  • Treated areas may be red, swollen, and bruised for the first 10-14days.
  • Do NOT get a facial or massage for 1 week after your procedure.
  • Avoid strenuous workouts and alcohol for 24 hours if possible.
  • If bruising occurs, continue Arnica supplements, apply topical Arnica gel, eat fresh pineapple, and/or take Bromelain supplements to help bruising resolve faster.
  • A few days after treatment, you will look as you did before treatment. Over time, Sculptra will replace lost collagen. You should schedule a 3 month follow up for before-and-after photos after you complete your Sculptra package.

ESTHETICIAN SERVICES

Chemical Peel
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Chemical Peel Pre and Post Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions

For best results, it is advised to avoid sun exposure and the following products & procedures at least 1 week prior your treatment:

  • Waxing
  • Depilatory creams
  • Laser hair reduction
  • Any exfoliating products
  • Any products that may be drying or irritating, including products containing salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, vitamin c, hydroquinone, retinoids, and prescription medications.
POST-Treatment Instructions

For two days post procedure:

  • Stay cool! Heating internally can cause hyperpigmentation.
  • Do not put treated area directly into a hot shower spray.
  • Do not use hot tubs, steam rooms or saunas.
  • Do not go swimming.
  • Do not participate in activities that would cause excessive perspiration.
  • Do not use loofahs or other means of exfoliation.
General Guidelines:
  • After receiving a chemical peel, the skin may look and feel like a mild windburn for the next 2 or 3 days. After 48 hours, a slight flaking may occur for 3 to 5 days which can easily be controlled with moisturizers.
  • It is recommended that makeup not be applied the day of treatment, as it is ideal to allow the skin to stabilize and rest overnight.
  • To minimize side effects and maximize results, use our recommended products for 3 to 5 days or until flaking has resolved.
  • Moisturizer should be applied at least twice a day but can be applied more frequently for hydration and to decrease the appearance of flaking.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure and excessive heat. An SPF of at least 30 must be used daily.
  • Do not go to a tanning bed before, during, or after a peel. This practice should be discontinued due to increased risk of skin cancer and signs of aging.
  • Do not pick or pull on any loosening skin. This could potentially cause hyperpigmentation.
  • Do not have any other facial treatment for at least one week after your peel. You may resume the regular use of retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid, vitamin c or bleaching creams ONLY after peeling process is complete.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Dermaplaning Exfoliation Pre and Post Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions

 CONTRA-INDICATIONS

  • Exfoliation is contraindicated for those with active infection of all types, such as herpes simplex virus or flat warts.
  • Active acne
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Eczema, dermatitis
  • Skin Cancer
  • Vascular lesions
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • Do not use harsh scrubs or abrasive loofahs following your treatment for at least 3 days.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure and wear sunscreen daily.
  • Avoid vigorous activity and hot heat.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

HydraFacial Pre & Post Care

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • Avoid unprotected sun exposure for 1 week prior to treatment. Use at least SPF 30 and wear a hat to protect from sun exposure.
  • Do not use harsh exfoliants for 1 week prior to treatment.
  • Discontinue use of Tretinoin type products (Renova, Tretinoin, Retin A, Retin A Micro, Tri-Luma, Solage, etc.) at least 2 or 3 days prior to treatment.
  • Discontinue use of Hydroquinone 2 or 3 days prior to treatment.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • You may resume normal skin care regimen the day of treatment.
  • Discontinue Retin A for 2 days following.
  • Avoid unprotected sun exposure for at least 2 days post treatment.
  • Use sunscreen SPF 30 or higher daily.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Microneedling Pre & Post Care Instructions

PRE-Treatment Instructions
  • Avoid Vitamin E, fish oils, and Ginkgo Biloba for one week prior to treatment.
  • Avoid Aspirin and Ibuprofen for 5 days before treatment. (Please consult with your physician first if you are on ASA therapy). Tylenol is okay.
  • Avoid antihistamine and inflammatory drugs one week prior to treatment. These negate the effects of the procedure. The body’s histamine and inflammatory responses are needed post procedure.
  • Stop Laser Hair Removal, Electrolysis, Waxing, and Depilatory creams one week prior to treatment.
  • Stop topical retinoids (tretinoin and retinoic acid (Retin-A, Renova, Refissa)) one week prior to treatment.
  • If using Accutane, a 1 year waiting period after discontinuation of medication is required.
  • Please notify our office if you have ever been diagnosed with frequent cold sores. You may require prophylactic therapy.
What to expect after your treatment:
  • Immediate pinpoint bleeding may occur, which will resolve within 10 minutes.
  • Minor redness and swelling will occur for 1-2 days.
  • Minor peeling and flakiness will occur after a few days. Don’t pick at the loose skin.
  • Call our office if you experience excessive redness, swelling, pain, or drainage as they might indicate an infection.
POST-Treatment Instructions
  • The initial 72 hours of post-procedure are the most critical.
  • Avoid direct sun and heat.
  • Discontinue use of any drying or irritating products. You may resume your homecare regimen when skin is no longer flaking and peeling.
  • Limit extreme heat and workouts for 24 hours.
  • Use hydrating and reparative products. Products rich in soothing and healing ingredients are best to encourage new, healthy cell growth. Peptides, antioxidants, stem cells, Vitamin A, C, and E, and growth factors work very well.
Thank you for visiting us at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Teeth Whitening Post-Treatment Instructions

Possible Side Effects
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Although uncommon, some people can experience some tooth sensitivity during the first 24-48 hours after the whitening treatment. People with existing sensitivity, recently cracked teeth, micro-cracks, open cavities, leaking fillings, or other dental conditions that cause sensitivity may find that these conditions increase or prolong tooth sensitivity after the treatment. If you experience tooth sensitivity after the treatment, you can use Sensodyne toothpaste to ease the discomfort. Brush your teeth with this toothpaste until tooth sensitivity goes away.
  • Relapse: After the treatment, it is natural for teeth color to regress somewhat over time. This is normal and should be very gradual, but it can be accelerated by exposing the teeth to various staining agents, such as coffee, tea, tobacco, red wine, colas, citrus drinks and fruits, etc. Do not eat or drink anything except water for the first hour after the treatment because the gel opens the pores of the enamel and makes the teeth very vulnerable to staining agents. You can resume your normal habits after 24 hours.
  • Allergy: Some people are allergic to peroxide but are not aware of it. If you had the treatment done and a few hours or a day later you have a blister on your lips, you are probably having an allergic reaction to the gel. Buy liquid vitamin E in any drugstore and apply it to the blister until it goes away. It generally goes away within a couple of days by itself. Please let us know if this occurs.
Results:

How long the results will last depends on 2 main factors:

  1. Your Habits
  2. The porosity of your teeth


If you expose your teeth to staining agents such as tobacco, coffee, red wine, tea, colas, etc. on a regular basis, your whitening results will not last as long. If you have naturally porous enamel, your teeth will be more vulnerable to staining agents and your teeth will get stained again sooner than the average person. Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing ahead of time how porous your teeth are. If you have porous enamel and you expose your teeth to staining agents on a regular basis, your results may last for only 6 months. If you have non-porous enamel and you don’t expose your teeth to staining beverages on a regular basis, the results may last for up to 2 years.