What you need to know: Your BBL Photofacial

What to Expect / When to Contact Us:

Normal & Expected:

  • Redness and warmth similar to a mild sunburn for 1–3 days.

  • Darkening of sun spots or pigmentation.

  • Mild swelling or dryness in the treated area.

Contact Us If You Experience:

  • Blistering, significant pain, or excessive swelling.

  • Signs of infection (pus, increasing redness, warmth, or tenderness).

Pre-Care Instructions:

To ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of adverse effects, please follow the guidelines below prior to your BBL treatment:

  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment.

  • Discontinue use of retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and other exfoliating agents 5–7 days before treatment.

  • Avoid self-tanner for 2 weeks.

  • Do not wax, use depilatory creams, or undergo chemical peels on the treatment area for 1–2 weeks prior.

  • Let us know if you are prone to cold sores or have a history of herpes simplex virus—we may prescribe prophylactic antiviral medication.

  • Arrive with clean skin: no makeup, lotion, sunscreen, or skincare products on the area to be treated.

  • Inform your provider of any recent medications, photosensitizing agents, or changes in health.

Post-Care Instructions:

After your BBL treatment, you may experience some redness, warmth, or darkening of pigment, which is part of the healing process. To support recovery and maximize results:

  • Avoid direct sun exposure for 2 weeks. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily.

  • Gently cleanse with a mild cleanser and cool water; avoid hot water and scrubbing for 3–5 days.

  • Do not pick, scratch, or exfoliate treated areas—freckles and pigmentation may darken and flake off naturally.

  • Avoid heat exposure (e.g., hot tubs, saunas, intense workouts) for 48 hours.

  • Do not apply active ingredients (retinoids, acids, vitamin C) for 5–7 days or until the skin is no longer sensitive.

  • Moisturize regularly with a gentle, hydrating product

  • Makeup can be worn 24 hours after treatment, if skin is not irritated.

  • Expect results to develop over several weeks; pigment and redness typically improve over time.

Please reach out to the Maeva team with any concerns or unexpected reactions. Your provider will guide your ongoing skin plan based on your personalized goals.