Thermage Pre and Post Care Instructions

Pre Care

1. Avoid Sun Exposure
   • For at least 2 weeks before treatment: Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds, as tanned or sunburned skin can increase the risk of irritation and make the skin more sensitive.
   • Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day to protect your skin from UV damage.
2. Discontinue Certain Skincare Products
   5-7 days prior to treatment: Stop using any exfoliating or irritating skincare products, such as:
   • Retinoids (e.g., tretinoin)
   • Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)
   • Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs)
   • Vitamin C serums
   • Exfoliating scrubs

   These products can make your skin more sensitive and may increase the risk of irritation during or after the treatment.

3. Stay Hydrated
   Hydrate well: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment. Hydrated skin responds better to the radiofrequency energy used in Thermage.
4. Avoid Botox or Fillers
   For at least 2 weeks before treatment: Avoid Botox, dermal fillers, or other injectables in the treatment area to ensure the Thermage treatment isn’t interfered with and provides optimal results.
5. No Waxing or Hair Removal
   For at least 2-3 days before treatment: Avoid waxing, threading, or using depilatory creams in the treatment area. Shaving is fine but avoid any hair removal methods that may irritate the skin.
6. Arrive with Clean Skin
   On the day of the treatment: Make sure your skin is clean, free from makeup, lotions, oils, or sunscreen that might interfere with the treatment. You may be asked to cleanse your skin before the procedure.
7. Inform Your Provider About Medical Conditions
   • Let your provider know if you have any medical conditions, especially those that may affect your skin, such as active acne, eczema, or any autoimmune disorders.
   • If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of heart problems, discuss this with your provider to determine if Thermage is appropriate for you.
8. Discuss Expectations
   Talk to your provider about your treatment goals and expectations so they can tailor the procedure to your individual needs and skin type.

Post Care

1. Avoid Sun Exposure
   • For at least 2 weeks after treatment: Protect your skin from direct sun exposure and tanning beds, as the skin can be more sensitive to UV rays post-treatment.
   • Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily to protect your skin from UV damage and prevent pigmentation changes.
2. Mild Redness and Swelling Are Normal
   • Immediately post-treatment: You may experience mild redness, swelling, or a warm sensation in the treated area. These effects are usually temporary and should subside within a few hours to a few days.
   • Cold Compress: You can apply a cool compress to the treated area to help alleviate any discomfort or swelling.
3. Avoid Heat and Excessive Sweating
   For at least 48 hours: Avoid hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, or any activity that induces excessive sweating (like intense exercise). Heat can irritate the treated skin and may affect the results.
4. Avoid Touching or Massaging the Treated Area
   For at least 48 hours: Do not massage, rub, or touch the treated area unnecessarily to avoid irritation or disruption of the skin’s healing process.
5. Hydrate and Moisturize
   • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support the healing process.
   • Moisturizer: Apply a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to the treated area to help reduce any dryness or tightness. This will also help your skin recover.
6. Makeup
   For the first 24 hours: Avoid makeup if possible to allow your skin to heal properly. After this period, you may apply makeup, but make sure to use non-comedogenic products that are gentle on the skin.
7. Avoid Skin Irritants
   For 5-7 days post-treatment: Avoid exfoliating products (e.g., scrubs, AHAs, BHAs) or any products containing retinoids, Vitamin C, or other active ingredients that could irritate your skin.
8. Resume Normal Activities Gradually
   You can return to your normal routine immediately after treatment, but avoid vigorous exercise, sweating, and other high-impact activities for at least 48 hours.
9. Results Will Appear Gradually
   Collagen production: Thermage works by stimulating collagen production, so results will become more noticeable over time. It may take 2-6 months to see the full effects, as collagen remodeling happens gradually.
10. Monitor for Side Effects
    • Normal: Mild swelling, redness, and a warm sensation are common and should subside within a few hours to a few days.
    • Seek Help: If you experience any unusual reactions, such as blistering, severe swelling, pain, or signs of infection, contact your provider immediately.
11. Avoid Blood Thinners for 2 weeks
    Avoid aspirin products for 2 weeks