Pre-Treatment Instructions

A little preparation goes a long way toward a comfortable appointment and the best possible results.

Pre-Treatment Instructions: How to Prepare for Your Visit

Different treatments call for different preparation, but a few simple steps before almost any appointment at Revive can reduce bruising, improve comfort, and help you get the most out of your visit. Below, you'll find general guidance along with instructions specific to injectables, laser and light treatments, and skin treatments.

If you have questions about how to prepare for a specific treatment, your provider will go over anything unique to your appointment during your consultation or scheduling call.

General Guidelines for Most Appointments

A few habits in the days leading up to almost any treatment can make a real difference in your comfort and results.

Arrive with a clean face, free of makeup, if your appointment involves facial treatment
Stay well hydrated in the days before your visit
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before treatment
Let your provider know about any new medications, supplements, or health changes since your last visit
Plan to arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork

Preparing for Injectable Treatments

Injectables like Botox, Dysport, dermal fillers, Sculptra, Kybella, and SkinVive carry some shared preparation guidelines, since all involve injections and carry some risk of bruising.

Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E, for about a week before treatment if medically appropriate to do so, and only after consulting your primary care provider about any prescribed medications
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment, since it can increase the risk of bruising
Consider scheduling injectable appointments at least two weeks before any major event, in case of temporary swelling or bruising
Let your provider know if you have a history of cold sores if you're receiving lip filler, since injections can sometimes trigger an outbreak

Preparing for Laser and Light Treatments

Treatments like IPL, Laser Genesis, laser hair removal, CO2 fractional laser, Morpheus8, and RF microneedling require some additional preparation to protect your skin and support safe, effective results.

Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least two weeks before treatment, since tanned or sunburned skin increases the risk of complications
Discontinue retinoids, retinol, and other strong exfoliating skincare products for several days before treatment, as directed by your provider
For laser hair removal, shave the treatment area the day before your appointment, but avoid waxing, plucking, or electrolysis for several weeks beforehand
Avoid self-tanner in the treatment area for at least a week before your appointment
Let your provider know about any history of cold sores if treating the lip or mouth area

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Preparing for Skin Treatments

Treatments like HydraFacial, chemical peels, VI Peel, and dermaplaning are generally gentler to prepare for, though a few precautions still apply.

Discontinue retinoids and strong exfoliating products for several days before a chemical peel or VI Peel, as directed by your provider
Avoid waxing, threading, or other hair removal in the treatment area for about a week before dermaplaning
Come with a clean face, free of makeup or heavy skincare products
Let your provider know about any active cold sores, open wounds, or recent sunburn in the treatment area

Preparing for Body Contouring Treatments

Evolve and Morpheus8 Body treatments require minimal special preparation, though a few steps can help.

Stay well hydrated in the days leading up to treatment
Avoid heavy exercise immediately before your appointment if treating a specific muscle group
Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area
Let your provider know about any metal implants or medical devices in the treatment area

Pre-Treatment Frequently Asked Questions

What if I forget to follow one of these guidelines?

Let your provider know before your treatment begins. In many cases, your appointment can still proceed, though your provider may adjust the plan or recommend rescheduling if it affects your safety or results.

Can I take my regular prescription medications before treatment?

Yes, in almost all cases. These guidelines primarily concern optional supplements and over-the-counter medications that increase bruising risk. Never stop a prescribed medication without first consulting the doctor who prescribed it.

Do I need to avoid exercise before every treatment?

Not necessarily. Avoiding intense exercise is mainly recommended before injectable treatments and immediately before body contouring sessions targeting specific muscles. Your provider will let you know if it applies to your specific appointment.

How far in advance should I stop tanning before a laser treatment?

At least two weeks is generally recommended, since tanned or sunburned skin is more prone to complications during laser and light treatments. Consistent daily sunscreen use is the safest approach in the weeks before your appointment.

Should I eat before my appointment?

Yes, having a normal meal before your visit is generally recommended, particularly for injectable treatments, since it can help minimize lightheadedness during and after treatment.

Who can I contact if I have questions about preparing for my specific treatment?

Your provider will review any treatment-specific instructions during your consultation, and our team is always available by phone to answer questions before your appointment.