I have been to 3 different clinics. While prices and approach were different, what remained the same was the lack of proper information I received. I got more info reading this site for 30 mins that I got at the 3 clinics.
In any case this is my little “protocol”. I’m not saying it’s perfect or that it is good for you. This is just my own step-by-step of the procedure. Comments and suggestions are most welcome.
(1) I arrive at the clinic at least 1 hr 15 mins before my appointment. Even though I shaved with a TracIII razor in the morning, I shave again as close as I can, this time with an electrical razor.
(2) I wash the area with Spectro Jel, an antibacterial cleanser. I have a problem with small whitehead pimples so this might help.
(3) I apply EMLA cream (2.5% lidocaine, 2.5% prilocaine) and cover with Saranwrap. I leave the cream on at least 1 hr, more if possible. From the product leaflet: “Satisfactory dermal analgesia is achieved 1 hour after application, reaches maximum at 2 to 3 hours, and persists for 1 to 2 hours after removal.”
(4) About 15 mins before the start of the treatment I take a couple of Advil pills (ibuprofen 200 mg).
(5) Start of the treatment. As it lasts nearly 2 hrs, I only remove half of the Saranwrap to begin with. Otherwise the numbing effect of the EMLA wears off and it is too painful towards the end of the treatment.
(6) During the treatment the technician/nurse will pause 2-4 times and apply ice for 5-10 mins to cool off the skin.
(7) Once the treatment is over and I leave the treatment room, I apply my own ice pack. I wrap the pack in a face cloth, I don’t put the plastic directly on the skin.
(8) If I will be going some place other than home and the treated area is exposed, I clean up by removing some of the burned hair. This can be time consuming.
(9) If I have blisters I apply a small quantity of antibiotic cream like Fucidin or other.
(10) Later on I apply some Cortate cream (hydrocortisone 0.5%).
(11) I refrain from shaving the area for at least 5 days.
Supplies:
Advil, EMLA, SpectroJel, Fucidin, Cortate, Saranwrap, ice pack, face cloth, small mirror, tweezers.