"How should I prepare my skin before an apparatus session like HydraFacial or diamond microdermabrasion?"
To avoid lipid barrier irritation or micro-lacerations during vacuum abrasion, please follow these concrete parameters:
- Discontinue Prescriptions: Stop topical retinoids, tretinoin, and adapalene at least 72 hours prior to physical abrasion or chemical peels.
- Avoid Direct Heat: Do not use saunas, steam rooms, or vigorous sun tanning 48 hours prior to mechanical vacuum suction.
- Active Lesions: If you have open viral lesions (such as herpes simplex) or active bacterial impetigo, we cannot perform apparatus work until the barrier is fully epithelialized.