Over the years, I have learned quite a bit. But the one thing that stands out to me, and that I want to put a fine point on, is that results are not always guaranteed. Because, there is a lot that (should) happen before the treatment, during the treatment, and after that affects the outcome positively or negatively. And If there is one thing I love, it is results! And I know you do too. I want to share the following information with you so you can have more control over your results and have healthier skin. As a consumer myself, I recognize that we spend a fair amount of time investing in our health and beauty routine. And we can do things to get better, longer-lasting results that give us more value. The following guidelines are topical and nutritional factors, and timing guidelines, that can help increase results and protect our skin while it is healing. The guidelines are broken down into “Before the Treatment” and “After the Treatment.”

Before Treatments:

The following are necessary for daily cellular function. Making sure we get these in the right amount will improve results and are also necessary for daily maintenance and functioning. There is also a more in-depth list on my website, in the “Blog” section.

Vitamin A: Collagen formation

Amino Acids: Proline and Lysine: Collagen Synthesis

Copper Peptides: Collagen Synthesis

Zinc: Collagen Synthesis. Required for collagen synthesis and elastin synthesis. Also necessary for DNA repair and DNA duplication. Necessary for the the production of superoxide dismutase. A powerful skin antioxidant that aids in the removal of damaged tissue.

Bioflavonoids: Collagen synthesis and antioxidant. Protects Vitamin C. Protects connective tissue, preventing degradation caused by inflammation. Some bioflavonoids are Grape seed extract and green tea extract.

Iron: Co-Factor in Collagen synthesis.

Calcium: Dermal Fibroblast “demand” calcium. Fibroblasts synthesize collagen and elastin. Calcium is also “required in epidermal cell migration”/maturation “and regeneration patterns during later stages of healing.”

Silicon: Required for connective tissue formation.

Glucosamine: Oral supplementation during the first few days after surgery or induced trauma enhances hyaluronic acid, which in turn promotes faster healing and reduces the chances of scarring.

Omega 3 and 6: Essential Fatty Acids! If you know me, you know! These are essential for a reason! Omega 3 down-regulates inflammation. It also creates a strong, supple cell membrane, a healthy acid mantle (part of your immune system that sits on top), and a nice juicy environment for cells to exist in.

After Treatment:

The following is particularly important following more in-depth treatments, like microneedling. But will vary depending on just how aggressive a treatment is.

Immediately After: Antihistamine, Antiviral (if prone to cold sores). Hyaluronic Acid topically.

Inflammatory Phase, Days 1-5:

Oral: Omega 3, Vitamin A, C & E

Topical: Calcium, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamins A, C, & E. (C is best applied on the 3rd day).

Fibroblastic Phase, Days 5-14:

Oral: Omega 3, Vitamin A, C & E, Glucosamine, Amino Acids, Minerals, Iron, Zinc, Copper, Calcium.

Topically: same as above plus, Azelaic Acid, Copper Peptides

Maturative Phase, days 14-28, up to 2 years

Oral: Omega 3, Vitamin A, C & E, Glucosamine, Amino Acids

Topical: Same as above and Iron, Green Tea Extract, Minerals

AND OF COURSE, A MINERAL SUNSCREEN starting on day 2

There were a few more items in each group but I didn’t want to overwhelm you. I think the important point has been made though, that nutritional needs, orally and topically, must be met to give our skin the best advantage. Many of you have heard me say not to apply Vitamin C, until the third day following a more aggressive treatment. This is the optimal time for collagen formation and optimal healing. The above takes this further. I want to empower you to get the best results, whether it is with me, your doctor, or another therapist. It matters to me that you have this information. I recommend keeping this field away and pulling an item or two to incorporate over time. It can also serve as a handy guide for any future treatments.

What’s Required for Best Results

Before Treatments:

After Treatment:

Book an Appointment