MOXI Laser Treatment: Pre & Post Care Instructions

• It is recommended that all patients having resurfacing treatments done around the mouth have an oral antiviral agent to prevent any cold sore virus getting into the treated areas. Valtrex 500 mg twice a day to start 1 day before treatment and continue on for 5 days post treatment (7 days total).
• Please discontinue any products containing active ingredients 7 days prior to treatment, such as: Retinol (Retin-A, Tretinoin, Vitamin A), Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, AHAs (Alpha-hydroxy acids), LHAs (Lipo hydroxy acids) and Benzoyl Peroxide. Avoid hydroquinone for 3 days before your treatment. If you have any questions about your current skin care products, please call our office 312-638-4979
• Please show up to your treatment appointment with no makeup on.
• Avoid sun exposure (including tanning beds) for at least 14 days prior to treatment. Avoid sunless tanning creams or sprays on the treated area for 14 days prior.
• Do not wax or use depilatory creams on the treatment areas for 14 days prior to treatment.
• Avoid Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Fish Oils, Vitamin E, and other blood thinners 5-7 days before your treatment. If you are on a prescribed blood thinner, please contact our office at 312-638-4979 Chicago, 224-432-5803 Glenview.
• Please bring a wide brimmed hat with you on your treatment day to protect your skin when you leave the office.

These pre & post care instructions are intended to guide you through the treatment process and get you on your way to gorgeous!

CLEANSING:

Cleanse the skin two times a day with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, beginning the morning after the treatment. Use your hands and gentle patting motions. DO NOT rub, scrub, use an exfoliant or skin care brush such as a Clarisonic on the treated area.

MOISTURIZER:

Moisturizer should be applied generously with clean hands over treated area and reapplied whenever your skin feels dry. DO NOT apply any other products that were not instructed by your provider – eg. essential oils, coconut oil, etc.

SUNSCREEN:

Sunscreen is a MUST and should be used daily beginning the day after treatment and used consistently for up to 3 months post procedure. Use a physical sunscreen with Broadband UVA and UVB protection and a SPF of 30. Ensure to reapply during sun exposure.

WATCH-OUTS

For general post-treatment discomfort, an over-the counter oral pain reliever, i.e. Extra Strength Tylenol might be prescribed by your doctor. If an anti-viral was prescribed, continue to take as directed. Avoid scratching and itching, as scarring and pigmentation complications can occur. Itching can be relieved by oral Benadryl, but can cause drowsiness.

• Use soft cloth and soft towels to avoid any scrubbing
• Make-up can typically be worn once the peeling process is complete
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat or protective clothing for 2 months post treatment to avoid blistering, scarring, hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation
• When showering, avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area

There may be some degree of swelling immediately post-treatment, however if you experience excessive swelling or any of the following signs of infection, you should contact the office immediately 224-432-5803 Glenview, 312-638-4979 Chicago.

Signs of infection include:

• Drainage – looks like pus
• Increased warmth at or around the treated area
• Fever
• Extreme itching
• Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after skin has healed

Feeling of Warmth

• Warmth may continue for 12-24 hours after the treatment.
• What to Do Cold compresses may provide comfort during this time. Also, a mineral water spray might provide some relief and much needed moisture to the skin.
• Redness (Erythema)

Redness is normal and expected. Redness generally increases in intensity for the first few days after treatment with day 3 usually being the most intense. Redness can persist for up to 7 days depending on the intensity treatment.

Use gentle cleansers and keep your skin moisturized and out of the sun which will allow your skin time to heal and limit further stress on your skin.

What to Expect MENDs (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris) will appear on the 2nd or 3rd day after treatment as tiny dark spots and bronzed appearance to the treated skin.

• MENDs are part of the healing process where treated tissue is working its way out of your body as new fresh skin is regenerated. During this time, your skin will be very dry and feel like sandpaper before flaking and peeling off. Keep your skin well moisturized to support the healing process.
• Do not pick at your skin.

Swelling (Edema)

Swelling is common and expected immediately after treatment.

• Use of a cold compress will help to relieve the swelling.
• To avoid further swelling, you may choose to sleep in an upright position the first 2-3 nights after the treatment. The first morning post treatment is when swelling is more prevalent, especially under the eyes. Swelling may last 2-4 days.

Healing after MOXI varies slightly from person to person, but most patients experience minimal downtime and can return to many normal daily activities shortly after treatment.

Many patients notice healthier, brighter skin within the first week after treatment. Improvements continue over the following weeks as new collagen develops beneath the skin.

While some changes are visible quickly, the full benefits of MOXI are typically seen several weeks after treatment. Many patients choose a series of treatments for optimal long-term improvement.

One of the biggest advantages of MOXI laser treatment is its minimal downtime. Most patients experience temporary redness, warmth, and a sandpaper-like texture during the healing process, but these effects are generally mild compared to more aggressive laser resurfacing procedures.

Depending on your treatment intensity and skin type, many people feel comfortable returning to work and normal daily activities within a day or two while following their provider’s post-treatment instructions.

As your skin heals, avoid using products that may increase irritation until your provider advises it is safe to resume your normal skincare routine.

• Retinol and prescription retinoids
• Vitamin C serums if irritation occurs
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
• Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
• Physical exfoliants and facial scrubs
• Strong acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide

Keeping your skincare routine simple during recovery allows your skin barrier to heal more efficiently.

Most redness, warmth, and peeling are expected parts of the healing process. However, you should contact your provider if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Increasing redness after several days
• Large blisters or excessive swelling
• Pus or unusual drainage
• Fever or other signs of infection
• Any unexpected reaction that concerns you

Prompt communication with your provider helps ensure proper healing and the best possible treatment outcome.

Yes. MOXI is commonly combined with other aesthetic treatments to enhance overall skin rejuvenation. Your provider will recommend the safest treatment plan based on your goals and skin condition.

• BBL® (BroadBand Light) for pigmentation and redness
• Botox® or Dysport® for dynamic wrinkles
• Dermal fillers for volume restoration
• Medical-grade skincare products

Combining treatments may improve overall results while maintaining a personalized treatment schedule that supports proper healing.

MOXI is designed for patients who want to improve overall skin quality with minimal downtime. It is appropriate for many skin types and can be used as both a preventative and corrective treatment.

• Fine lines and early signs of aging
• Uneven skin tone
• Sun damage and pigmentation
• Mild texture concerns
• Preventative skin maintenance
• Patients seeking minimal downtime

A consultation with an experienced provider can determine whether MOXI is the best treatment for your individual skin concerns.