Preparing for Your Pico Genesis - Neck, Décolletage and Hands Rejuvenation
The outcome of your skin treatment is not determined by the procedure alone. To maximise the best outcomes you'll need to carefully prepare your skin and body before treatment and apply special care after treatment.
Preparation reduces the risk of side effects and ensures the laser energy is optimally absorbed by the pigment and collagen.
Sun Exposure and Tanning
Why it matters: Tanned skin absorbs laser energy intended for the melanin deposits, increasing the risk of burns and complications like Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Strictly avoid direct sun exposure on the treatment area for at least 4 weeks.
- Discontinue any tanning product or procedure (including tanning beds and self-tanning creams) for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment.
- Strict, daily and rigorous use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, containing physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) is mandatory.
Medications and Topical Product
Why it matters: These ingredients make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation from the laser.
Photosensitive drugs can lead to a severe reaction.
- Stop Retinoids/Exfoliants: Discontinue all vitamin A derivatives (Retinoids, Retin-A, Retinol) and strong chemical exfoliants, 7-14 days before treatment.
- Photosensitizing Oral Medications: Medications known to cause photosensitivity (e.g., certain antibiotics like Doxycycline) must be discussed, as they may need to be stopped 5-7 days prior, only with clearance from the prescribing physician.
- Avoid Blood Thinners/NSAIDs: To minimize bruising (purpura), stop taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's like Ibuprofen, Naproxen) and high-dose supplements like Vitamin E, Fish Oil, or Gingko Biloba 3-7 days before treatment. Aspirin use must be discussed with your primary care physician.
- Hydroquinone: If you are using hydroquinone for pre-treatment preparation, your clinician will advise when to stop; typically, it is discontinued 3-5 days before the procedure to avoid excessive irritation.
Skin Integrity and local trauma
Why it matters: The skin must be completely intact and calm before the laser procedure.
- Avoid waxing, threading, or chemical peels in the treatment area for at least 2 weeks.
Absolute Contraindications and Eligibility
- Pregnancy and Nursing: Treatment is strictly contraindicated if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Age: Patients must be 18 years of age or older to consent to treatment (or minors with explicit medical and parental approval).
- Active Infections/Wounds: The treatment area must be completely free of any open wounds, active infections, cold sores, or dermatitis. Prophylactic antiviral medication may be required if you have a history of cold sores.
- Systemic Medications/Implants: Treatment is contraindicated if you have taken oral Isotretinoin (Accutane) within the last 6 to 12 months or if you have metal implants (including screws or plates), or a history of gold therapy directly within the area to be treated, due to the risk of heating the metal.
Have any questions? We're here to help you
We know that the thought of investing in facial aesthetic can be daunting. We want you to be absolutely informed, comfortable and to able to decide whether it's a perfect fit for you. Please connect with our expert team—we'll listen to your concerns, advise you on the process and make sure that nothing is left unclear.
Already booked? Read what to do after your treatment:
After Care for Neck, Décolletage & Hands Book Now