Pre- and Post-Care: RF Microneedling(M8)

Before Your Treatment (Pre-Care)

• Sun & Tanning: Avoid sunbathing/tanning beds for 2 weeks prior; no self‑tanner on treatment areas for 2 weeks. Do not arrive sunburned. Use SPF 30+ daily.
• Actives: Stop retinoids/retinol, AHAs/BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, strong vitamin C, scrubs/brushes for 3–5 days prior (longer if sensitive).

• If medically possible, avoid blood thinners for 7-10 days before the treatment.  This includes, but is not limited to, fish oil, NSAIDS, and oral steroids. Tylenol is fine to take.  Bruising is a possibility during the Morpheus8 treatment. If you bruise, you can make an appointment to come back within the next few days. We will use a laser to dissolve it.
• Procedures: Avoid waxing, threading, depilatories, strong peels, microdermabrasion for 1–2 weeks prior to the area.
• Medications: Do not stop prescriptions on your own; we’ll advise on timing. Oral isotretinoin: wait 6 months after completion.
• Health: No active infection, rash, open lesions, or cold sores on treatment areas. If you have HSV around the mouth/nose, ask about antiviral prophylaxis.
• Arrival: Come with clean, makeup‑free skin; remove lotions/oils/fragrance from treated zones. Men may be asked to clean shave.
• Numbing Plan: Your appointment is booked to include ~45–60 minutes of topical numbing in a relaxing environment unless you pick up cream in advance and self‑apply for 45–60 minutes before arrival (follow SOKO’s numbing guide).

Post‑Care

Day 0 (0–24 hours)

• Normal: redness, warmth, swelling; pinpoint bleeding or grid‑like marks can occur.
• Soothe: Keep skin clean. You will not apply anything to the skin today at home.  PDGF or exosomes applied in office are the only topicals safe for today. These are used to expedite healing and amplify results.
• Sun: Strict avoidance; physical shade/hat if outdoors.

• At home considerations for the 1st 48hours:

• • Wipe off anything that may encounter your face with rubbing alcohol, i.e.cell phone,nose piece on glasses, inside brim of a hat.
  • If you have pets, do not let them have contact with the area that has been treated.
  • Avoid aerosol products.
  • Excessive heat and sweating. Avoid hot tubs, saunas/steam for 72hours. Exercise is fine but don’t overdo it. Keep skin cool; avoid friction.
  •  Change your pillowcase before you go to sleep the first night. Use a clean towel the first time you wash your face (day 2).  Wash your hands before you touch your face.
  • Wash your makeup brushes before you use them (after 48 hours)
  •   Increase your fluids and avoid the sun, as you will not be able to wear sunscreen for 48 hours.

Day 1–3

• Products: While micro‑channels may remain open, use only clinic‑approved topicals.
• Cleanse/Moisturize: Gentle fingertip cleanse, pat dry; start bland moisturizer/barrier as needed. May apply this step 2-4 times today. 
• SPF: Start mineral/broad‑spectrum SPF 30+ on day 2, once skin is dry/calm (commonly after 24h). Reapply if outdoors. Mineral tinted SPF is fine to use. 
• Makeup: can begin on day 3.  Light mineral makeup if skin is calm and intact; use clean applicators only.
• Actives: Keep retinoids, acids, and benzoyl peroxide off; avoid alcohol toners and cleansing brushes.

Day 4–7

• Transition to your gentle routine + SPF.
• If skin is calm, begin hydrating serums (e.g., hyaluronic acid); consider growth factors per provider.
• Re‑introduce active products gradually when fully settled—often after 5–7+ days.
• Avoid exfoliation products and services until skin is completely healed and there isn’t any evidence of the treatment on the surface of the skin. 

Weeks 2–3

• Continue sun‑smart habits.
• Avoid strong peels, microderm, and other energy devices in the same area for ~2–4 weeks unless instructed otherwise.

Area‑Specific Notes

• Face/Neck/Jawline: Swelling is common, especially around the eyes and jawline for 24–72h. Sleep elevated the first night.
• Periorbital/Eyelids (Prime/Resurfacing tips): Expect extra puffiness; gentle eye cream is encouraged starting at 24 hours post treatment; use preservative‑free lubricating drops if eyes feel dry/irritated.
• Beard Areas: Avoid shaving for at least 72 hours; when resuming, use a new blade and gentle strokes.
• Body (abdomen, thighs, arms, knees): Redness/swelling can last longer (2–5+ days). Avoid tight clothing and heavy workouts that cause friction for 48–72h. We encourage using a soothing ointment like Aquaphor, immediately post treatment. Use frequently the first few weeks, to avoid itching due to dryness.Flesh colored track marks can last up to 4 weeks on certain areas of the body.
• Scar/Acne‑scar focus: Temporary flares or dryness can occur; prioritize hydration and sun protection.

Optional Topical Add‑Ins (If Purchased)

• Ariessence™ Pure PDGF+ or Plated™ serums may be applied in‑clinic if your provider approves, or started at ≥24 hours once skin is clean and calm. Avoid strong actives while using.

Scheduling, Maintenance & Injectables 

• Typical spacing is 6 weeks between sessions; maintenance every 6–12 months per goals. A series of 3-4 treatments is suggested for most skin care goals. Patients typically won’t see their progress until after the 2nd treatment. The Morpheus8 series will peak with results at 9 months.
• For the same area, allow ≥1 week around neuromodulators and ≥2–4 weeks around fillers (your provider may tailor this).

When to Contact SOKO

Call/text 913‑232‑2224 if you notice increasing pain, spreading redness/warmth, blistering, drainage/pus, fever, or swelling that worsens after 48–72 hours, or any unexpected reaction. For emergencies, dial 911.