• Some mild stinging or a burning sensation that will go away.

• A blister that forms over the treated area. This may contain a small amount of blood. The blister will break open on its own after about 2–4 weeks, leaving a scab. Then the treated area will heal. After healing, there is usually little or no scarring.

Caring for the treated area

• Follow instructions from your health care provider about how to take care of the treated area. If you have a bandage (dressing), make sure you:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after you change your dressing. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer.

  • Change your dressing as told by your health care provider.

  • Keep the dressing and the treated area clean and dry. If the dressing gets wet, change it right away.

  • Clean the treated area with soap and water.

  • Keep the area covered with a dressing until it heals, or for as long as told by your health care provider.

• Check the treated area every day for signs of infection. Check for:

  • More redness, swelling, or pain.

  • More fluid or blood.

  • Warmth.

  • Pus or a bad smell.

• If a blister forms, do not pick at your blister or try to break it open. Doing this can cause infection and scarring.

• Do not apply any medicine, cream, or lotion to the treated area unless directed by your health care provider.

General instructions

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.

• Do not smoke or use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco before the procedure. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.

• Do not take baths, swim, use a hot tub, hand-wash dishes, or otherwise soak the treated area until your health care provider approves. Ask your health care provider if you may take showers. You may only be allowed to take sponge baths.

• Do not wait to see if the symptom will go away.