BBL Pre and Post Treatment Care Instructions

• While most patients experience minimal downtime – such as temporary redness or mild increased pigmentation immediately after treatment — and can resume normal activities the same day, some may have a prolonged recovery period lasting up to two weeks. For this reason, it is important to plan important social events in advance and allow yourself a full two weeks for complete recovery.
• Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for 2 – 4 weeks prior to treatment. Skin should be as light as possible to reduce risk of hyperpigmentation or burns.
• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily and reapply frequently if outdoors, even in cloudy weather.
• Discontinue use of topical retinoids (Retin-A, tretinoin, adapalene), vitamin C, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, or any other exfoliating agents 5 – 7 days before treatment to minimize skin sensitivity and irritation.
• Discontinue oral medications and supplements such as : NSAIDS (Ibuprofen, Aspirin and etc), Magnesium, Vitamin D, Fish oil, Flaxseed oil 5-7 days before treatment to minimize bruising and petechiae.
• If you are very sensitive to pain – you can take Extra Strength TYLENOL 500mg 2 tablets 1 hour prior to your treatment.
• Inform your provider about all medications you are taking, particularly antibiotics or drugs that increase photosensitivity; prescription blood-thinning agents, biological infusions or injections, steroids, and hormons.
• If there is a history of herpes simplex (cold sores) in the treatment area, consult your provider regarding antiviral prophylaxis.
• Arrive at your appointment with clean, makeup-free and product-free skin. Do not apply lotions, creams, deodorant, or SPF to the area before your session.
• For areas with hair, shave the treatment area 1 – 2 days before your appointment, but avoid waxing or plucking for at least a week prior.
• Avoid the use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within 6 months of treatment.

• Immediately after treatment, mild redness, swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation are normal and may last several hours to a few days. Cool compresses can be used for comfort, but avoid direct ice application to the skin.
• Strictly avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least 7 – 14 days post-treatment; use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and keep treated areas covered when outdoors.
• Cleanse treated areas gently with a mild cleanser for the first week.
• Moisturize regularly with a bland, fragrance-free moisturizer to help skin heal and reduce dryness or flaking.
• Freckles, pigment, or sunspots may darken and flake off over 7 – 14 days; do not pick or scratch these areas.
• Avoid hot tubs, saunas, vigorous exercise, and excessive sweating for 48 hours post-treatment to reduce inflammation and risk of irritation.
• Do not use retinoids, exfoliants, or harsh topical agents until the skin fully recovers (typically about a week).
• Do not use SELF-TANNERS on the treated areas. Self-tanner will make your pigment return.
• Makeup can generally be worn the day after the procedure if the skin is not irritated, but avoid heavy ingredients or occlusive products.
• Continue sun protection and gentle skin care for at least two weeks following your procedure. Maintenance treatments may be advised every 3 – 6 months based on your provider’s recommendations.
• Use TINTED SUNSCREEN at all times if you prone to diffused pigmentation, melasma, going boating, pool and beach

These instructions ensure safe and optimal outcomes for BBL phototherapy in professional settings and are based on current recommendations and leading clinical protocols.

Recovery after BBL treatment can vary depending on the area treated, the condition of your skin, and the intensity of your treatment. Temporary redness, warmth, swelling, or a sunburn-like sensation may occur following your appointment.

Pigmented areas such as freckles and sunspots may temporarily become darker before gradually flaking or fading. This can be a normal part of the post-treatment process. Avoid picking or scratching the treated skin and allow it to recover naturally.

Sun protection is especially important after BBL treatment. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and follow your provider’s recommendations regarding sun exposure, skin care products, exercise, heat, and when to resume your normal routine.

How Should I Prepare for a BBL Treatment?

Before BBL treatment, protect your skin from direct sun exposure and tanning and follow your provider’s instructions regarding skin care products, medications, and supplements. Arrive for your appointment with clean, product-free skin. Review the complete BBL pre-treatment instructions above for additional information.

How Long Is Recovery After BBL?

Many patients experience minimal downtime, although recovery varies. Temporary redness, swelling, or a sunburn-like sensation may last from several hours to a few days, while some patients may require a longer recovery period. Pigmented areas can darken and flake over approximately 7–14 days.

Can I Go in the Sun After BBL?

Sun exposure should be strictly limited following BBL treatment. Follow your provider’s instructions, use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and keep treated areas protected when outdoors.

Can I Exercise After BBL Treatment?

Our post-treatment instructions recommend avoiding vigorous exercise and excessive sweating for 48 hours after BBL treatment to help minimize inflammation and irritation.

When Can I Use Retinol After BBL?

Avoid retinoids, exfoliants, and other harsh topical products until the treated skin has fully recovered, typically about one week. Follow your provider’s instructions if you have questions about restarting a specific skin care product.

When Can I Wear Makeup After BBL?

Makeup can generally be worn the day after treatment if your skin is not irritated. Avoid heavy or occlusive products and follow any specific instructions provided by your New Image Works provider.