How to Prepare for Your Aesthetic Treatment: A Simple Checklist
Small steps that reduce bruising and improve results
A little preparation before an aesthetic treatment can reduce bruising, protect your skin and make recovery smoother. Most steps are simple: pause certain products, avoid alcohol and arrive with clean skin. Here is a practical checklist.
Key takeaways
- One week before: pause retinoids and strong acids before lasers.
- A few days before: avoid alcohol and some supplements that increase bruising.
- Medications: never stop prescribed medicine without your doctor.
- On the day: arrive with clean skin and no makeup.
- Plan ahead: leave time before events or flights.
Preparation timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 week before | Pause retinoids and acids (for lasers); avoid tanning |
| 2–3 days before | Limit alcohol; ask about fish oil and vitamin E |
| Day before | Hydrate well; plan your aftercare products |
| On the day | Clean skin, no makeup; eat a light meal |
Tell your doctor about
- Medications, including blood thinners.
- Recent treatments or fillers.
- History of cold sores, keloids or allergies.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plan your recovery
| Treatment | Leave before events |
|---|---|
| Botox | About 2 weeks |
| Filler | About 1–2 weeks |
| Laser toning | 1–2 days |
| Fractional or CO2 laser | 1–2 weeks |
Questions to ask before you book
- Which products should I stop and when?
- Can I keep taking my medicines?
- How long before an event should I book?
- What should I buy for aftercare?
Related reading
Related reading
Quick summary
Before aesthetic treatments, pause retinoids and acids before lasers, limit alcohol, share your medical history and arrive with clean skin. Plan enough recovery time before events or flights.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stop aspirin before filler?
Only if your doctor advises it; never stop prescribed medicine on your own.
Can I wear makeup to my appointment?
It will be removed, so arriving bare-faced is easier.
Can I exercise before treatment?
Yes, but avoid heavy exercise right after.
Does arnica help bruising?
Some people find it helpful; ask your doctor.
How early should I book before a wedding?
Usually 2–4 weeks for injectables.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Suitability, treatment choice, results and price should be confirmed by a doctor at consultation, and individual results vary. Price ranges are approximate and may change.
A little preparation before an aesthetic treatment can reduce bruising, protect your skin and make recovery smoother. Most steps are simple: pause certain products, avoid alcohol and arrive with clean skin. Here is a practical checklist.
