How to prepare for ellacor treatment: Optimal 2-Week Guide

Why Proper Preparation Is the Foundation for Ellacor Success

How to prepare for ellacor treatment is a critical step that directly impacts your comfort, healing, and final results. Ellacor uses Micro-Coring® technology—hollow needles that remove thousands of tiny skin cores—to tighten skin and smooth wrinkles without surgery. Unlike heat-based devices, Ellacor physically removes up to 8% of the skin’s surface, triggering your body’s natural healing response. Since the procedure creates open micro-wounds, following specific preparation and aftercare is essential to minimize downtime, reduce complications, and achieve a smooth, natural-looking outcome.

Quick Preparation Checklist:

1. Two weeks before: Stop all non-essential blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, Vitamin E), avoid sun exposure and tanning beds, and pause other facial treatments
2. Notify your provider: If you have a history of cold sores, you’ll need antiviral medication
3. Day before: Shave any facial hair with an electric razor
4. Day of treatment: Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin wearing comfortable, loose clothing (button-down shirts work best)
5. After treatment: Use occlusive dressings for 24-48 hours, cleanse gently twice daily, avoid sun exposure, and skip makeup for about one week

I’m Daniel J Farrugia MD, PhD, FACS, a board-certified surgeon at BodyLuxe in Chicago. Having performed thousands of minimally invasive procedures, I know that meticulous preparation is key to successful outcomes. I apply this same evidence-based approach when guiding patients through how to prepare for ellacor treatment and recovery for any aesthetic procedure.

The Crucial Two-Week Countdown: Pre-Treatment Essentials

The journey to refreshd skin with Ellacor begins well before your appointment. The two weeks leading up to your procedure are vital for setting the stage for optimal healing and minimizing potential side effects. This period involves careful adjustments to your medications, skincare routine, and lifestyle. Following these guidelines ensures your skin is in the best possible condition for treatment.

Medications and Supplements to Pause

A key step in preparing for Ellacor is reviewing your medications and supplements to reduce the risk of bruising. We advise pausing certain items two weeks before your treatment.

Discontinue non-essential blood-thinning agents, including over-the-counter medications like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen (Aleve). These increase your risk of bleeding and bruising.

Many herbal supplements also have blood-thinning properties. Stop taking products such as grapeseed extract, Vitamin E, and fish oil, as they can also increase bruising.

If you take prescribed blood thinners for a medical condition, it is crucial to discuss this with us and your prescribing physician during your consultation. Never stop prescribed medication without your doctor’s approval. We will coordinate a safe plan for a smoother recovery.

Skincare and Lifestyle Adjustments

In the two weeks before your Ellacor procedure, certain skincare and lifestyle adjustments are needed to create a “clean slate” for your skin.

Firstly, avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds. Sun-damaged skin is more sensitive and may not heal as well, increasing the risk of complications like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and use sunscreen if you must be outdoors.

Secondly, avoid other skin procedures in the treatment area, such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser treatments. Your skin should be calm to maximize Ellacor’s benefits. If you’ve had dermal fillers in the area, wait at least six months before your Ellacor treatment.

Lastly, for optimal wound healing, stop smoking. Smoking impairs healing, prolongs recovery, and increases complication risks.

For more detailed information about what to expect during your initial assessment and how these guidelines will be custom to your unique needs, please refer to our page on More info about your consultation.

Special Medical Considerations

Your medical history is crucial for tailoring your Ellacor preparation. Be transparent about any pre-existing conditions during your consultation.

Inform us if you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex virus) in the treatment area, as the procedure can trigger an outbreak. To prevent this, we will prescribe an antiviral medication like Valtrex. You’ll typically start taking it two days before the procedure and continue for four days after, ensuring a smoother healing process.

Similarly, if you have a history of rosacea, we may prescribe an oral antibiotic to start on your procedure day and continue for about a week. This proactive step helps manage inflammation and prevent flare-ups.

Your safety and optimal results are our top priorities. A thorough understanding of your medical history allows us to anticipate and mitigate potential issues, so please inform your provider about all relevant medical conditions.

The Final 24 Hours: How to Prepare for Ellacor Treatment

As your Ellacor treatment day approaches, the focus shifts to immediate preparations. The day before and the morning of your procedure are about ensuring your skin is perfectly ready and that you are comfortable. These final steps are straightforward but essential.

The Day Before Your Procedure

The day before your treatment is for final preparations. Shave any excessive facial hair, beard, or mustache in the treatment area so the device can make direct contact with your skin. Use an electric shaver if possible to minimize skin abrasions or nicks.

Consider eating fresh pineapple the day before your procedure. Its bromelain content may help decrease bruising and inflammation. While not required, it’s a natural way to potentially aid your healing.

This is also when you’ll begin any prescribed oral antibiotics (like Azithromycin or Doxycycline) if deemed necessary, particularly for a history of rosacea. If prescribed an antiviral for cold sore prevention, continue that regimen. Getting a good night’s rest and staying well-hydrated are also excellent ways to prepare your body for healing.

On the Day of Your Ellacor Treatment

On the morning of your procedure, arrive with a clean face, chin, and neck, free of any makeup, lotions, or serums. This ensures optimal application of anesthesia and an effective treatment.

Comfort is key. We recommend wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and avoiding high-neck or collared shirts. A button-down shirt is an excellent choice as it doesn’t need to be pulled over your head.

Eat a light meal before you arrive. Plan for a 2-3 hour clinic visit, which includes time for anesthesia; the procedure itself takes about 30 minutes. If you take a prescribed sedative like Valium upon arrival, you must have a responsible adult drive you home. We’ll also ask you to shower with antibacterial soap and wash your hair before coming in, ensuring maximum cleanliness for the treatment area.

After Your Ellacor Session: A Guide to Healing and Recovery

Congratulations, you’ve completed your Ellacor treatment! Now, the focus shifts to careful aftercare, which is just as important as the preparation. Following our post-procedure guidelines will guide your body towards the best possible outcome. This phase involves managing immediate symptoms, adhering to a specific skincare regimen, and avoiding certain activities. For more comprehensive guidance, please visit our page on More info about aftercare.

Immediate Post-Procedure Care (First 24-48 Hours)

Immediately after your Ellacor session, it’s normal to experience certain sensations and see visible changes in your skin. Here is what to expect:

• Appearance: Expect your skin to look bright pink, like a sunburn. Pinpoint bleeding, bruising, swelling, tightness, and tenderness are also common.
• Rest and Elevation: Rest for the first few hours. Sleep with your head liftd on pillows for the first few nights to minimize swelling.
• Occlusive Dressing: Keep the area hydrated by applying a light film of an occlusive dressing (petrolatum, Biafine, or Vanicream Ointment) regularly. Some protocols suggest Avene spray mist and Microglide gel twice a day for the first 24 hours.
• Gentle Soaks: For the first 24 hours, we may recommend soaking your face three times for five minutes with a cool water and white vinegar mixture to aid healing.
• Cooling: Gentle ice packs can be applied to alleviate heat sensation and discomfort.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Tylenol can be taken as needed.
• Hands Off: Do not pick, scratch, or rub the treated area. This can disrupt healing, introduce bacteria, and lead to scarring or infection.
• Avoid Irritants: For at least seven days, steer clear of abrasive topicals. For the first three days, avoid swimming, hot tubs, and saunas to prevent infection.

Following these instructions gives your skin the best start to its healing journey.

The First Week: Do’s and Don’ts for Optimal Healing

The first week is a critical period for healing. Adhering to a gentle, protective regimen is paramount.

Do’s:

• Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse the area twice daily with water and a mild cleanser. Gently pat dry with a clean, soft towel or paper towel. Do not rub, scrub, or share towels.
• Moisturizing: After cleansing, apply a light film of an approved post-care product (e.g., petrolatum, Biafine, Alastin Nectar). Reapply when dry to prevent parching, which can impede healing.
• Sun Protection: Avoid direct and prolonged sun exposure. If you must go outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade.
• Lift Your Head: Continue to sleep with your head liftd to reduce swelling.
• Mask Hygiene: If you wear a face mask, use a clean one daily and change it if it becomes soiled. This is especially important for Chicago residents.
• Medication Adherence: Continue any prescribed antibiotics or antivirals as directed.
• Gentlewaves: We may schedule a follow-up visit within 2-5 days for soaking and a Gentlewaves treatment to aid healing.

Don’ts:

• No Picking or Scratching: Do not pick at any scabs or circular marks. Let them fall off naturally.
• Avoid Certain Activities: Do not shave, wax, apply makeup, use tanning beds, or use sunless tanning creams. Avoid scrubbing or picking the area.
• No Contact Sports or Injury Risk: Avoid activities that could cause injury to the treated site.
• Avoid Submerging in Water: Do not submerge the treated area in pools, whirlpools, or oceans until it is fully healed.
• No Overheating: For 3-7 days, avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or overheating, like hot baths, spas, or intense exercise.
• No Smoking: Continue to avoid smoking, as it severely impairs wound healing.
• Harsh Products: Avoid abrasive scrubs, toners, or products with glycolic acids or Retin-A for at least one week (or up to four weeks for harsh products).

Recommended Post-Care Supplies to Have on Hand:

• Medications: Prescribed antiviral (Valtrex), oral antibiotic (Azithromycin/Doxycycline), and any pain/anxiety medications (Prednisone Taper, Valium/Percocet if prescribed).
• Topicals: Petrolatum, Biafine, Vanicream Ointment, Avene spray mist, Microglide gel, Alastin Skin Nectar or Plated Intensive Repair Serum, gentle facial cleanser.
• Hygiene: Soft, clean towels (or paper towels), fragrance-free detergents.
• Comfort: Ice packs, a wide-brimmed hat.
• Optional: Fresh pineapple (for pre-procedure consumption).

For more detailed information on the entire healing journey, please consult our page on More info about the healing process.

Long-Term Recovery and Resuming Your Routine

As the initial healing subsides, you’ll gradually transition back to your normal routine with some key considerations.

You can typically apply makeup after about one week, once the micro-cores have closed. Use clean applicators and gentle, non-comedogenic products.

Once your skin has healed and the initial shedding is complete, you can gradually reintroduce your usual skincare products. For about four weeks, avoid harsh ingredients like retinoids or strong acids. Your new skin will be delicate.

Long-term sun protection is crucial. Your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays, and diligent protection is essential to prevent hyperpigmentation and preserve your results. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily for at least three months. Reapply every two hours, especially if active. If sun exposure is unavoidable, wear a hat and protective clothing. This commitment is vital for proper healing, as highlighted in scientific research on scarless healing.

Understanding Your Ellacor Results and Downtime

Starting on an Ellacor treatment means looking forward to smoother, tighter skin. However, it’s equally important to have a clear understanding of the healing process, the expected downtime, and the timeline for seeing your full results. Managing your expectations will ensure a satisfying journey.

What to Expect During the Healing Process

The downtime after an Ellacor treatment varies, but we can give you a general idea of what to expect:

• Social Downtime: Most patients experience 3 to 7 days of social downtime, where you may prefer to limit social engagements due to visible healing.
• Redness and Swelling: Redness and swelling are most prominent in the first few days, lasting 3 to 10 days. Elevating your head while sleeping helps reduce this.
• “Stamp Marks”: Small, circular marks from the micro-cores will be visible. These can last from 5 days to 3 weeks, fading as the skin heals.
• Tightness, Dryness, Peeling: Sensations of tightness, dryness, and roughness are common as your skin heals. Peeling and shedding are part of the renewal process. Do not pick or scrub; let your skin heal naturally.
• Signs of Complications: Though rare, be aware of potential complications. Contact us immediately for pain beyond tenderness after the first day (possible infection) or extreme itching (possible allergic reaction). We provide comprehensive guidance on More info about safety and side effects to ensure you know what to watch for.

Your Results Timeline: From Initial Changes to Final Outcome

Ellacor is not an instant gratification procedure; it harnesses your body’s natural regenerative powers.

• Initial Changes: You might notice initial improvements in your skin’s firmness and texture within a few weeks. We often take progress photos around the one-month mark.
• Treatment Series: For optimal results, most patients need a series of treatments, often three procedures spaced about 30 days apart. Your exact number of sessions will be determined during your consultation.
• Collagen Development: Ellacor stimulates new collagen production, which takes time. The most significant results appear 3 to 6 months after your final session. Studies show up to a 90% improvement in moderate to severe wrinkles within six months of three treatments.
• Longevity: Ellacor results are long-lasting because it removes excess skin and stimulates new collagen. However, aging continues, so occasional follow-up sessions may be recommended. Your age, skin quality, and lifestyle influence the longevity of your results.

To learn more about how Ellacor specifically targets and improves facial wrinkles and skin laxity, please visit our dedicated page on More info about face tightening with Ellacor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ellacor Preparation

We understand that preparing for an aesthetic procedure can bring up many questions. Here, we address some of the most common concerns patients have when getting ready for their Ellacor treatment.

How to prepare for Ellacor treatment if I have a history of cold sores?

If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex virus) in the treatment area, inform us during your consultation. The procedure can trigger an outbreak. We will prescribe a prophylactic antiviral medication, like Valtrex, to be taken starting two days before your procedure and continuing for four days after. This preventive measure helps ensure a smoother healing process without the complication of an outbreak.

What medications must I stop before Ellacor?

To minimize bruising and bleeding, stop taking certain medications and supplements two weeks (14 days) before your appointment. This includes:

• Blood Thinners: All non-essential blood thinners.
• NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), and naproxen (Aleve).
• Herbal Medications: Certain herbal supplements like grapeseed extract.
• Supplements: Vitamin E and fish oil.

If you are on any prescribed blood thinners for a medical condition, do NOT stop them without first discussing this with your prescribing physician and our team. We will work together to create a safe plan for your treatment.

How long is the downtime after an Ellacor treatment?

Typical downtime is 3 to 7 days of “social downtime,” where you may limit social activities due to visible healing. This period can vary by individual and treatment intensity.

During this time, you can expect:

• Redness and Swelling: Your skin will be noticeably red and swollen, similar to a bad sunburn. This can last from 3 to 10 days.
• Tightness and Peeling: You might feel a sensation of tightness, and your skin may begin to peel or slough off as it heals.
• Circular Marks: Tiny circular marks from the micro-coring process will be visible, which typically fade over 5 days to 3 weeks.

While the visible signs usually subside within a week, complete internal healing and collagen remodeling continue for several months.

Begin Your Ellacor Journey with Confidence

Taking the step towards an Ellacor treatment is an exciting decision, and how to prepare for ellacor treatment is your first active step towards achieving the smooth, refreshd skin you desire. By carefully following our pre- and post-procedure guidelines, you are laying the foundation for optimal healing, minimized downtime, and the best possible results.

At BodyLuxe in Chicago, we are committed to an evidence-based practice where patient education and safety are paramount. Our surgeon-led clinic ensures that every aspect of your journey, from your initial consultation to your comprehensive aftercare, is handled with the utmost expertise and personalized attention. We believe in achieving natural, proportionate results that improve your unique beauty.

We are here to guide you through every stage of your Ellacor journey, providing you with the knowledge and support you need to feel confident and comfortable. If you’re ready to explore how Ellacor can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, we invite you to connect with us.

Schedule your consultation for skin tightening in Chicago and let us help you prepare for a radiant, more confident you.