Precautions and Contraindications
Acne is common and manageable. This page turns science into simple, practical steps so you can understand breakouts, protect your skin barrier, and see steady progress.
LED Light Therapy
Precautions & Contraindications
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Pregnancy (especially in the first trimester; red and blue light are generally safe, but always consult with a physician)
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Epilepsy or seizure disorders
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Photosensitivity disorders (e.g., lupus)
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Active skin cancer or current cancer treatments
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Use of photosensitizing medications such as:
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Accutane (Isotretinoin)
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Tetracyclines
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Certain antidepressants, anti-inflammatories, or diuretics
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St. John’s Wort (herbal supplement)
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Migraines triggered by light
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Recent Botox or fillers (wait 48–72 hours unless advised otherwise)
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Open wounds or active skin infections in the treatment area
Client Notes:
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Always wear protective eye goggles during LED treatment.
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Avoid retinoids or harsh exfoliants for 48 hours before and after use.
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Some temporary redness or warmth is normal but should subside quickly.
Helpful At-Home Resources
Clear skin is a daily habit. Use these resources to check your products, choose acne-safe swaps, and follow simple food guidelines so your routine stays consistent between visits.
Think of this as your home base between treatments. Use the product checker before adding something new, shop from acne-safe picks, and follow the food guidance without being extreme. Small, steady choices make the biggest difference.
When you introduce a new product, add one at a time so you can spot reactions. Keep brushes and pillowcases clean, and scale back to gentle basics if irritation appears. If you need help adjusting your routine, reach out and we’ll fine-tune it together.
Chemical Peel
Precautions & Contraindications
All Chemical Peels will require a consultation prior to scheduling
Active cold sores, herpes simplex, or other viral infections
Active acne lesions (for deeper peels) or open wounds
Recent sunburn or windburn
Recent waxing, laser hair removal, or dermaplaning (within 5–7 days)
Use of Retin-A, retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, or exfoliants (within 3–7 days)
Use of Accutane (Isotretinoin) within the past 6–12 months
Pregnancy or breastfeeding (some peels may be safe, but physician clearance is recommended)
Rosacea or highly sensitive/reactive skin (unless using specialized peels)
Autoimmune disorders affecting the skin (e.g., lupus, psoriasis)
History of keloid scarring or poor wound healing
Recent facial surgery, microneedling, or ablative laser treatments (wait 2–4 weeks)
Photosensitizing medications or antibiotics
Client Notes:
Discontinue use of exfoliating products, retinoids, and certain actives 3–5 days pre-treatment.
SPF must be worn daily post-peel, as skin will be highly sensitive to UV exposure.
Mild redness, flaking, or dryness is common post-treatment—avoid picking or peeling skin.
Downtime varies by peel type (progressive peels have little to no visible peeling).
Dermaplaning
Precautions & Contraindications
Active acne or inflamed breakouts
Rosacea or eczema flare-ups in the treatment area
Open wounds, cuts, cold sores, or skin infections
Severe or cystic acne
Bleeding disorders or current use of blood-thinning medications
Sunburn or recent overexposure to the sun
Recent facial waxing (within 5–7 days)
Recent chemical peels, laser treatments, or microneedling (wait at least 1–2 weeks)
Use of Accutane within the past 6–12 months
Client Notes:
Avoid retinoids, AHA/BHA products, and exfoliation for at least 3 days before and after treatment.
Temporary redness or sensitivity is normal post-treatment.
SPF is essential after dermaplaning, as skin will be more sun-sensitive.
Microcurrent
Precautions & Contraindications
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Pacemaker or other implanted electrical devices
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Pregnancy (especially in the first trimester; some prefer to avoid entirely)
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Epilepsy or seizure disorders
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Active cancer or undergoing chemotherapy/radiation
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Recent facial surgery or injectables (wait 2–4 weeks or per provider guidance)
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Metal implants in the treatment area (e.g., dental hardware may be discussed)
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Open wounds, active infections, or severe acne breakouts
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Uncontrolled diabetes or other systemic health concerns (requires physician clearance)
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Recent Botox or fillers (wait 10–14 days unless advised otherwise by your provider)
Client Notes:
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Avoid using retinoids or exfoliating acids 2–3 days before and after treatment.
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Always notify your esthetician of any recent changes in health, medication, or skincare products.
Waxing
Precautions & Contraindications
Waxing Precautions – Before Your Appointment
Hair should be at least ¼ inch long (about the length of a grain of rice) for optimal results.
Avoid exfoliating the area 24–48 hours before your appointment.
Discontinue use of retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, or acne medications on the area for at least 5–7 days before waxing.
Avoid sun exposure and tanning (including tanning beds) for 48 hours before and after waxing.
Limit alcohol and caffeine intake before your appointment to reduce sensitivity.
Gently exfoliate 1–2 days prior to help prevent ingrown hairs, unless contraindicated.
If needed, take an over-the-counter pain reliever 30 minutes prior to reduce discomfort.
Waxing Contraindications – When Waxing May Not Be Suitable
Use of topical or oral retinoids, Accutane, or steroid medications
Sunburn, rash, broken skin, or active infection in the treatment area
Diagnosed skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea in the treatment area
Recent chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, or injectables (within the last 7–14 days)
Diabetes or conditions that impair healing
Blood-thinning medications
Active cold sores or herpes outbreak in the waxing area
Not sure if waxing is right for you? Contact us for a consultation!