Treatment Preparation & Aftercare

Service Instructions

At The Collective Med Spa, your results begin long before you step into the treatment room. Thoughtful preparation and intentional aftercare ensure that every service you receive is as effective, safe, and transformative as possible.

Please review the following guidelines prior to your appointment. If you have any questions, our team is always here to assist.

  • General Pre-Treatment Guidelines

    To support optimal results and minimize side effects such as bruising or swelling, we recommend the following:

    • Refrain from alcohol for at least 48 hours before your appointment

    • Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (including Advil, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Aspirin, Vitamin E, fish oil, and St. John’s Wort) for 5–7 days prior, unless otherwise instructed by your medical provider

    • Consider taking oral Arnica 7–10 days in advance, if appropriate for you

    • For those prone to swelling, a non-drowsy antihistamine (such as Claritin or Zyrtec) may be taken starting 3 days prior

    • Arrive with clean skin and be well hydrated

    • Notify us of any recent changes in medications, illness, or active cold sores

    Please note that we are unable to treat individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. If you are currently under medical care or have specific concerns, let us know prior to your visit so we can ensure your safety and comfort.

  • Before Your Treatment:

    • Avoid intense physical activity, alcohol, and any supplements or medications that may increase bruising

    • If you are receiving microneedling, it should be completed prior to this treatment

    • Please inform us of any recent illness or medication changes

    After Your Treatment:

    • Refrain from strenuous activity for 24 hours

    • Avoid massaging or applying pressure to the treated areas

    • Full results may take up to 14 days to appear, with some clients noticing effects sooner

    • Bruising is a common side effect and typically resolves within 1–2 weeks

    • Clients receiving treatment for hyperhidrosis may resume deodorant use immediately after

  • Before Your Treatment:

    • Allow time for post-treatment swelling and potential bruising when scheduling

    • Consider starting Arnica and a non-drowsy antihistamine a few days prior to help minimize swelling and discomfort

    • Avoid alcohol and anti-inflammatory medications as noted above

    • If you have a history of cold sores, please notify us in advance

    After Your Treatment:

    • Swelling may increase within the first 24 hours and gradually subside over several days

    • Use a cold compress gently and briefly as needed

    • Begin light fingertip massage on day 3 if directed, to support even product distribution

    • Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours

    • Keep lips moisturized and avoid applying lipstick until the following day

  • Before Your Treatment:

    • Follow all general pre-treatment recommendations

    • If filler will be placed near the under-eye area, begin an antihistamine 3 days in advance

    • Avoid scheduling around major events due to potential swelling or bruising

    After Your Treatment:

    • Expect mild swelling or tenderness that may last several days

    • Use a cool compress as needed

    • Refrain from vigorous exercise for 24 to 72 hours

    • Do not manipulate the area unless advised

    • Use only gentle skincare for the first 3 days and pause actives like retinol

  • Before Your Treatment:

    • Follow standard pre-treatment care

    • Inform us if you’ve recently taken antibiotics, started new medications, or are experiencing any health changes

    After Your Treatment:

    • Massage the treated area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days

    • Mild soreness, redness, and swelling are common and usually resolve within a few days

    • Avoid alcohol and strenuous activity for 24 hours

    • Results develop gradually as your body builds collagen, with full improvement often seen after multiple sessions

    • Treatments are typically spaced 6 weeks apart

  • Before Your Treatment:

    • Avoid sun exposure and discontinue use of exfoliating acids or retinoids for 3–5 days

    • Do not schedule this service if you’ve recently taken Accutane or had a recent chemical peel

    • Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face

    After Your Treatment:

    • Redness and sensitivity are expected for 24 to 48 hours

    • Use only gentle cleanser and SPF

    • Avoid heat, sweating, sun exposure, and active ingredients for 72 hours

    • Do not pick, exfoliate, or use harsh products as skin heals

  • Post-Treatment Skincare Support

    Beautiful results deserve beautiful maintenance. We offer curated post-care solutions including ZO® Skin Health, designed to soothe, protect, and enhance your skin between treatments. Daily use of SPF 30 or higher is strongly recommended following any procedure.