MESOTHERAPY - MICRONEEDLING / DERMA-ROLLING
Mesotherapy is a combination of two therapies – Micro-needling and Derma rolling these are non-surgical cosmetic procedure that involves injecting a mixture of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts into the skin. This technique was developed in the 1950s by French physician Dr. Michel Pistor. Originally used to relieve pain, mesotherapy has evolved into a popular treatment for skin rejuvenation, fat reduction, and hair loss prevention.
Mesotherapy targets the middle layer of the skin (the mesoderm) to address underlying issues such as poor circulation and inflammation. It is often used to improve the appearance of the skin, reduce cellulite, and promote hair growth.
Micro-needling, also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT), is a minimally invasive procedure that uses thin needles to create tiny punctures in the skin. This process stimulates the skin’s natural healing response, leading to increased collagen and elastin production, which helps reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and wrinkles.
Micro-needling can be performed by a licensed healthcare provider using an automated pen-like device or a handheld roller (derma roller).
Derma rolling is a type of micro-needling that is typically performed at home using a device known as a derma roller. This tool consists of a handle with a roller covered in tiny needles. When rolled over the skin, these needles create micro-injuries that promote collagen production and enhance the absorption of skincare products.
How Does Mesotherapy Work?
Mesotherapy uses very fine needles to deliver a series of injections into the skin. As the needles go in, they vibrate at a rate of 6000-8000 rpm, creating minor injuries in the skin invoking collagen production. These are known as micro-injuries; these alter the skins elasticity and laxity and break down scar tissue. Along with the penetration rate, the aesthetician can also control the needle's depth and angle during the treatment. For instance, using a deeper setting and more passes on the area with a chickenpox mark, enlarged pores, stretch marks or for surgical scarring. While different angles will enable an equal pigment, aid awkward scarring and smoothing the skin.
Sometimes Mesotherapy may include the use of specialised media with the ‘injections’, the ingredients used in these treatments vary widely depending on the desired outcome. Common ingredients include:
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Hyaluronic Acid: For hydration and plumping of the skin.
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Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): To promote healing and tissue regeneration.
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Vitamins and Minerals: To nourish and revitalize the skin.
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Enzymes and Hormones: To improve skin texture and reduce fat.
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Plant Extracts: For their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Key Differences Between Micro-needling and Derma rolling
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Needle Depth and Control: Professional micro-needling allows for adjustable needle depth and more precise control, making it more effective for deeper skin issues. Derma rolling, while accessible for home use, has fixed needle lengths and is less precise.
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Risk of Skin Damage: Micro-needling is performed by trained professionals, minimizing the risk of irritation, tearing, or scarring. Derma rollers, especially when used improperly, can lead to skin damage and increased risk of infection.
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Results: Micro-needling tends to deliver more noticeable results in a shorter time compared to derma rolling due to the depth of treatment and professional application.
What Can Mesotherapy Treat?
Mesotherapy can be used to treat a variety of areas including the face, legs, back, neck, abdomen; any areas that the skin and muscles are damaged or aged. The treatment promotes:
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Collagen-induction & Elastin Synthesis: increases the firmness of skin and muscles.
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Cellulite Reduction: By breaking down fat and improving circulation.
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Skin Rejuvenation: Reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.
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Acne, Scarring and Stretch Marks: By promoting collagen production and skin healing.
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Hair Loss: Nourishing hair follicles and improving blood circulation to the scalp.
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Pigmentation Issues: Lightening dark spots, treating pigmentation and improving skin tone.
How Effective is Mesotherapy? The effectiveness of mesotherapy can vary due to the wide range of techniques, products used and the aftercare of the individual. Research on mesotherapy is limited, and while some patients report significant improvements, others see minimal changes. Mesotherapy and micro-needling offer non-invasive options for improving skin texture, reducing signs of aging, and treating various skin conditions. While these procedures can be effective, they require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results, and the effects may not be as dramatic as other options like liposuction or injections or fillers but carry much less risks being non-permanent. For optimum results its recommended to have a minimum of 4 mesotherapy treatments a month apart and to follow a daily aftercare utilising products and skin healthcare regimen.
How Long Do the Effects Last? The Initial improvements in skin texture and tone can be noticed immediately and improving within a few days to weeks after treatment once the redness and swelling subside typically within a few days. Enhanced collagen and elastin production from micro-needling can lead to more significant, long-lasting improvements in skin texture, fine lines, and acne scars. Results can be maintained for several months, with many individuals noticing sustained benefits up to 6-12 months. For initial treatment, a series of 3-6 sessions is commonly recommended, spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. This helps to build collagen and achieve more noticeable and consistent results. For derma rolling scar reduction treatments maintenance is required every 6-8 weeks, depending on individual skin response and goals. For sustained benefits, a course of treatments is often recommended. Regular maintenance sessions, typically every 3 to 6 months, the exact frequency depends on the individual’s skin condition, goals, and response to treatment. However, it is vital to have ongoing regular use of sun protection, moisturizers, and any recommended skincare products can help prolong and enhance any cosmetic results.
Does it hurt? Micro-needling involves the use of a device with fine needles that create micro-injuries in the skin. Most patients experience some discomfort, which is often described as a mild to moderate sensation similar to a scratching or tingling feeling. As the treatment progresses, you may feel warmth, heat, or a mild scratching sensation, especially over bony areas. In some cases, you may have slight bleeding. Pain levels can vary based on individual sensitivity and the depth of the needles used. Derma rolling with a needle roller can cause mild discomfort. The sensation is often described as a prickling or scratching feeling. The level of discomfort may vary depending on the needle length used and the individual's pain threshold. To minimize discomfort, a topical numbing cream (anaesthetic) is commonly applied to the skin before the micro-needling procedure. This numbing agent helps reduce pain and make the treatment more tolerable. The numbing cream typically takes about 30-60 minutes to take effect before the micro-needling begins and is asked to be applied prior to arrival and may be ‘topped up’ during the treatment. Post-Treatment Sensitivity: After the procedure, the skin may feel tender, similar to a mild sunburn, with possible sensitivity, redness and swelling that usually subsides within a few days. Cosmetic procedures are designed to be as comfortable as possible, and numbing agents help significantly reduce pain during treatment. If you have concerns about discomfort or pain, discuss them with your practitioner before the procedure to ensure appropriate measures are taken for your comfort.
Is it Safe? Cosmetic treatments are widely recognized as safe and effective when performed by trained and qualified professionals. These procedures create controlled micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production, which can enhance skin texture and appearance. Yes, cosmetic treatments are generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed aestheticians. However, the industry is unregulated, and the level of training among practitioners can vary significantly. Unfortunately, some individuals are certified after completing short in-person or online courses with minimal practical training, such as a 3 hour to 1-day classes. These courses often provide only a superficial understanding of the treatment, anatomy and physiology and the precautions necessary for safe practice. When choosing an aesthetician, it's important to ask about their qualifications. Inquire about where they trained, the level of their certification, the provider of their training, and the duration of their education. Ideally any cosmetic treatment should be a minimum of diploma level 3 training not just a 1-day certification course, this training must also require in-person teaching rather than purely online. Keep in mind that the quality of practitioners varies. Not every practitioner with minimal training is unsafe, just as not every highly qualified practitioner is effective. The experience and skills of therapists can differ greatly based on their education and who trained them. In the UK, complementary, holistic, and beauty industries, including cosmetic treatments remain unregulated. This lack of regulation extends to the insurance companies that cover these practices, which can make treatments risky in some cases. However, the beauty industry is hopefully becoming more regulated in the future. The most common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, minor bleeding, and mild discomfort at the treatment site. These effects are generally short-lived and resolve within a few days. Some individuals may experience temporary dryness or flaking. In rare instances, changes in skin pigmentation such as hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, or even scarring, can occur if the procedure is not performed correctly or if post-treatment care is inadequate. There is a minimal risk of infection when proper hygiene and sterilization protocols are followed. Using clean, sterile needles and equipment is essential. The risk of scarring is rare and can be minimized with correct technique and sterilization. Following post-procedure care instructions Following post-procedure care instructions diligently is crucial to reduce the risk of scarring and help avoid complications while supporting optimal healing and results. Always consult with a skilled, qualified, registered and insured practitioner when opting for cosmetic treatments.
What are the contraindications. reasons I can’t have treatment?
It is generally safe when performed by trained professionals. However, there are conditions that may not be suitable or need adaptions such as:
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Active cancer or undergoing oncology treatments.
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Low blood pressure.
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Severe uncontrolled hypertension
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Uncontrolled Epileptic and Seizure disorders.
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Insulin-Dependent Diabetes.
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Pregnancy or recent Childbirth.
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a history of Haemorrhage or bleeding and clotting disorders.
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Recent DVT, Embolism or thrombosis still requiring medication.
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taking blood thinning, anticoagulant or clotting medication.
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Active severe bruising, cuts or abrasions
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Recent surgeries, procedures, injections, fractures or sprains.
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Keloid tendency.
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Moles, freckles, skin tags or other growths that change in size, shape or bleed
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Uncontrolled or undiagnosed Skin Disorders such as: Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, Acne Vulgaris, Vitiligo, Rosacea, Chloasma.
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Infectious skin diseases, such as: impetigo, shingles, Herpes Simplex, Ringworm, Scabies, Conjunctivitis, MRSA, Warts, Verrucae’s.
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Acne or taking medication for acne
It is always important to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine if mesotherapy is appropriate for your specific needs.
How to Prepare for your Appointment Preparing for an appointment involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the most out of the treatment: Numbing agents:- for this treatment an anaesthetic numbing agent will be utilised, for this to be used a patch test must be undergo at least 1 week prior to the appointment, please discuss this with the practitioner at the consultation especially if you have had any prior reactions to Lidocaine products. Skin Care:- Try to avoid using any Retinol, exfoliants, AHA acids, BHA acids, Vitamin C, or Vitamin A products on the treatment area for several days prior to the appointment. Cleanse your skin thoroughly twice a day for 48 hours prior to the appointment. Remove all make up within 30 minutes of the appointment and ensure your face has been cleaned. Please don’t forget to apply any numbing agent provided 1 hour prior to the appointment as advised. Medications & Supplements:- Try to avoid taking Vitamin C, Vitamin A, NSAIDs and Aspirin or blood thinning medications for at least 5 days prior to the appointment where possible. Stimulants:- Try to avoid caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine for 12 hours before your session, as these can affect your body's response to the treatment. Fluids:- Drink plenty of water and try to stay hydrated, before your appointment. Being well-hydrated can help your body respond better to the treatment. Diet:- have a small, balanced meal or substantial meal about 1-2 hours before your appointment. This helps maintain your energy levels during the session. Avoid arriving with an empty stomach, as this can lead to dizziness or light-headedness. Attire:- Wear loose, comfortable or easily removable clothing that can be rolled up or removed to access treatment areas like your shoulders, neck and arms. Please tie up long hair or bring along a hairband to do so for access to the face, ear and neck vicinity. Punctuality:- please arrive on time, giving yourself enough time to arrive at your appointment without rushing will help you to reax. Please try not too early though as the clinic does NOT have any waiting area and space in the car park is limited. Consultation:- be prepared to discuss your health, medical history, current symptoms, medications, and any concerns you have with your practitioner. This information helps tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Please don’t forget to bring with you a full list of medications, medical conditions, any skin care routines or products used regularly, and any reading glasses required. Mindset:- Approach the session with an open mind and a calm attitude. Treatments works best when you're relaxed, so try to clear your mind and focus on your breathing during the treatment. Following these tips can help you be more prepared for your appointment aiding you to have a more positive, effective and relaxing cosmetic treatment.
What to Expect During the Treatment Prior to the treatment you will undergo the thorough consultation appointment these are usually done a weeks or so apart from the treatment and can typically last 60-90 minutes. This will include an examination of the skin area, a comprehensive review of your health and lifestyle history including any products you may already use so please do bring any products used as part of your skin care routine to this appointment alongside a list of medications and medical conditions. Additionally, this consultation will discuss your goals for the procedure. Photographs may be taken of the area to aid in the assessment and treatment process, and you will be given the numbing agent with guidance on how to use to ready for your appointment, and a patch test will also be performed. On the day of your treatment - you will be asked to sign an indemnity and consent form. This form confirms that you understand the nature of the treatment, which may involve direct skin contact, and acknowledges that multiple sessions might be necessary to achieve optimal results. The consent form will outline that while the treatment strives for objective improvements, individual perceptions of success can vary. By signing the consent form, you acknowledge that no guarantees or warranties have been provided regarding the results and that some cosmetic issues may not be fully resolved by this procedure. Your treatment journey then continues with a brief consultation where the practitioner will recap the consultation aims with you and assess your overall specific requirements, explain the procedure thoroughly, including potential risks and complications. Further photos may be taken of the area so you can compare the skin before and after the treatment. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss your concerns. It is important to understand that while the treatment aims to improve your appearance, no guarantees are made regarding the outcome. Some imperfections may remain, and additional treatments might be needed to achieve the best results. Your practitioner will help set realistic expectations, considering that lifestyle factors can influence the effectiveness of the treatment. The Treatment Process: at the start of the treatment, you will sit or lie down in a relaxed position, every effort will be made to make you comfortable, and any necessary clothing removal will be minimal and respectful. The practitioner will begin the treatment by sterilising and cleansing the treatment area. Then ensure the topical anaesthetic agent is working to minimize discomfort and if not will apply further numbing products. Once these are working satisfactory, they will apply Cosmeceutical products like Hyaluronic Acid or oils such as Coconut or Aloe vera oil to the treatment area (the selection of medias will be determined during the consultation). The treatment will then commence with the micro-needling device or derma roller moving them repeatedly over the skin at different angles while adjusting the speeds, depths, pressures and techniques depending on the desired treatment outcomes. As the treatment progresses, you may feel differing sensations such as: warmth, heat, tingling, a sense of movement, tenderness, muscle pulling or a scratching sensation especially where the areas are closer to bones or skin is thinner. In some cases, there may be bleeding occur too, do not be alarmed this is expected and part of improving the circulation to the skin. If the sensations, you experience are uncomfortable or too painful please speak with the practitioner. The treatment duration is typically 15-75 minutes depending on the individual needs and outcomes. During this time, we would recommend not engaging in conversation but to rest quietly if facial treatments are being undertaken for body treatments you are welcome to either rest quietly and have a quick nap or engage in conversation with the practitioner it is our policy the patient do whatever helps them feel most at ease. Once the treatment has concluded, cooling elements may be applied to the skin, followed by the gentle application of soothing serums or moisturizers designed to aid in healing, support collagen synthesis and leave your skin feeling refreshed. these will be included within the cosmetic treatment price. After the session, take your time getting up, as you may feel lightheaded or dizzy. It’s important to reorient yourself gradually before stepping of the treatment couch. At the end of the appointment the practitioner may offer aftercare advice, before taking payment and arranging any further appointments.
What are the after-effects of Treatment? While generally a safe treatment for all age groups and the majority of people when administered by a qualified, insured, registered and experienced practitioner, treatments can still have after-effects. These effects are typically mild and temporary, but it's important to be aware of them. Common After-effects: Skin reactions:- there may be possible skin marking, reddening, petechiae, rashes, darker patches, altered skin pigmentation, Lymphatic leakage, skin sensitivity, tightness, itching or altered skin sensation from the local vicinity of the treatment site that may persist for up to 14 days post treatment, taking up to 21 days to fully subside or disappear. During this time the skin may also be tender or sore and can have an elevated risk of infection, keloid scarring or an increased susceptibility of sunburns. Bruising:- where possible treatment is designed to minimize bruising but these can still occur. Occasionally, bleeding, swelling, bumps, inflammation or small bruises can appear at the treatment site. These are usually harmless and will fade within a few days but can sometimes be more severe in some people especially with anticoagulant usage or disposition to bleeding. In this event any of these occurring the use of a topical arnica lotion will help. Muscular Discomfort:- for some, it is very common to experience mild soreness, aching, tenderness or localized pain at the treatment site or in the body following a treatment. This may be similar to how a person feels after a hard day’s work or workout at a gym but can be more extreme as the body is trying to regulate following the treatment. This usually resolves within the 24-48 hours but may persist for 7-10 days. BP & Blood Glucose fluctuations:- patients often experience a lowering of their blood pressure, heart rates and blood glucose levels following treatments – this can leave people feeling slightly woozy, nauseous, light-headedness, or dizzy and may persist for a few hours following treatment, plenty of clear fluids and a light sugary snack will help with this. Energy & Fatigue:- It's not uncommon to feel tired or fatigued following a session. This is typically a sign that your body is responding to the treatment and beginning the Homeostasis process. Conversely, some people may feel a surge of energy following their session, which can last for several hours or even days. Short flu-like symptoms:- as the body rebalances itself it enters a detoxification period which can leave people experiencing 24-48 hours of flu-like symptoms – enlarged tender glands, achy bodies, Headaches, Sinus congestion, energy and temperature fluctuations, these are a good sign of your body responding to treatment. Its best to allow your body to rest during this timeframe and keep hydrated. Temporary Symptom Exacerbation:- In some cases, a person’s pre-existing medical conditions or symptoms may briefly worsen or flare before they improve. This is often seen as a sign that the treatment is taking effect and may require further treatment or adjusts to treatment to resolve. Digestion:- many do find treatment aids in their digestive systems, reducing bloating and aiding with appetite but can report issues with Nausea, Heartburn, passing wind more or changes in their usual toilet habits finding the consistency and frequency are often improved or altered, this can include having looser more often bowel movements that should subside within 48 hours. Sleep:- Many individuals find that their sleep improves after treatment, either by falling asleep more easily or experiencing deeper, more restful sleep. Equally, some people find following treatment their sleep is altered and more difficult, they often report changes in their dream patterns which can be more vivid and negative. Emotional Release:- Some people report an emotional release during or after treatment, which can manifest as unexpected feelings of sadness, tearfulness, despair, grief, anger, frustration, irritability, happiness, joy, mania, boredom or relief. This is a normal response to the body's energy balancing and the therapeutic aspects of touch especially where repressed emotions have been the source of disharmony in a person’s health. Most aftereffects of treatment are mild and resolve within a few days to weeks especially when following the aftercare. Although safe, sometimes more serious complications or after-effects can occur with this treatment. Rare But Serious Side-Effects - Severe Skin Reactions:- Persistent discoloration or altered pigmentation. Temporary or Permanent marking, Scarring or disfigurement. Keloid Scarring. Infections such as Sepsis and Cellulitis can occur. Internal Complications:- Risks of serious complications such as: Internal organ perforation, Pneumothorax. Movement of Blood Clots. Thrombosis. Embolism. Strokes. Haemorrhage. Muscle, Nerve, or Tendon damage. Significant Allergic reaction such as Anaphylaxis. Neuro-physical reaction:- Fainting, Dizziness, Syncope, Shock, Needle Shock, Hypoglycaemia, Severe Hypotensive Crisis, Tachycardia or alteration in body temperature. Please contact your practitioner or Healthcare provider as soon as possible if you experience any unusual or severe reactions especially within 12 hours post treatment or your symptoms are not showing signs of improvement 48 hours after the treatment.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following cosmetic treatment, due to the delicate nature of facial vasculature, particularly around the eyes, your skin can have capillary bleeding, visible bruising, redness, swelling or feel warm, sore or tight. These effects may last from 5 to 14 days, and some individuals may also experience fatigue. To support your recovery and optimize the results of your treatment, please adhere to the following guidelines:
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Apply an ice pack or a cooling aloe vera mask for the first 24-48 hours.
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Skin care: Avoid wearing makeup for the first 24 hours post-treatment. Cleanse your skin daily using a water-based moisturizer to prevent dryness and flaking and reduce redness.
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Products: Apply daily sunblock with SPF 20 or higher daily for 14 days to prevent post-operative hyperpigmentation and maximise the skin outcome. Consider applying vitamin A or C serums daily for 30 days after treatment and avoid any harsh skincare products for 30 days post-treatment
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Environment: Avoid hot baths, showers, saunas, sunbeds, or sunbathing for 24 hours after treatment to prevent skin damage. it’s vital to avoid direct sun exposure, or intensive sunlight exposure from solariums for 2 weeks or until the skin is fully healed.
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Additional Treatments: Refrain from undergoing any other treatments for 48 hours to prevent potential interactions.
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Hydration: Increase your water intake over the next 7 days to support detoxification. Herbal teas and fruit juices are also beneficial.
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Caffeine and Alcohol: Reduce caffeine intake and avoid alcohol, energy drinks, and recreational drugs for 24 hours post-treatment and 12 hours prior.
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Smoking and Vaping: Minimize or avoid smoking, vaping, and all nicotine products for 48 hours.
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Activity Level: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy exercise, or long drives for 24 hours to allow your body to rest and recuperate.
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Wellness: Try to reduce stress, maybe try light exercise, going for a walk, breathing or mediation to help.
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Follow-Up Care: Adhere to any specific aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible results from your treatment.
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