SUN PROTECTION & SKINCARE ROUTINE
When should I apply sunscreen?
Apply sunscreen every morning. Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating—even on cloudy days.
Is sunscreen first or last in my morning routine?
Sunscreen should be the last step of your skincare routine before makeup.
What’s a good SPF for me to use this summer?
We recommend a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are ideal for sensitive skin.
Should I be using retinol and when?
Yes, most skin types benefit from retinol. Start using it 2–3 nights a week, increasing as tolerated. Always apply it at night and follow with moisturizer.
How often should I exfoliate my skin?
2–3 times per week, depending on your skin type. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation.
Do you believe in LED light for anti-aging or acne?
Yes, LED light therapy can help with acne and signs of aging. We recommend medical-grade devices for best results.
TREATMENTS & PROCEDURES
How to prepare for any upcoming visits?
To prepare for any upcoming visits. Always arrive with a clean, bare face — no makeup, skincare, or sunscreen.
When can I start getting Botox or fillers? Who is a good candidate?
Botox and fillers can be started conservatively in your late 20s but preventative treatments begin with an excellent skin care regimen.
What is a lip flip?
A lip flip is a Botox treatment that relaxes the muscles around the mouth to create the appearance of a fuller upper lip.
Can I get a facial after fillers?
It’s best to wait at least 2 weeks after receiving fillers before getting a facial to allow the filler to settle.
How long does it take to heal from a chemical peel?
Most chemical peels heal within 7-10 days, but deeper peels or sensitive skin types may need up to 10 days.
How do I treat my dark circles?
Dark circles can be treated using several options, including hollow (tear trough) fillers, PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) therapy, Fraxel laser treatments, chemical peels, and a topical home care regimen tailored to your needs.
When can I resume my normal skin care routine?
Healing times vary depending on the procedure, and the following are general guidelines. After Botox or fillers, no changes are needed in your skincare regimen. Following light chemical peels, microdermabrasion, acne surgery, IPL, or Aquagold, you should wait three days before resuming your usual products, with day one being the day of the procedure. After resurfacing treatments, it’s best to wait seven to ten days, but healing can vary from person to person. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us, as individual recovery times may differ.
LASER TREATMENTS
What lasers are good for brown spots?
- Excel V – targets pigment and vessels; mild scabbing.
- IPL – treats sun spots and redness.
- Clear + Brilliant – improves tone, melasma.
- UltraClear – removes damaged layers, brightens skin.
- Fraxel – resurfaces skin and reduces pigmentation
How does Excel V work?
It uses laser light to break up pigment and reduce redness. Expect mild scabbing and pinkness for up to 2 weeks.
What does IPL treat?
Sun damage, dark spots, redness, and uneven skin tone with little downtime.
What is Clear + Brilliant good for?
Brightening skin, reducing age spots and melasma. Mild redness for 5–7 days.
What is UltraClear?
A resurfacing laser that treats brown spots, wrinkles, and scars—with deeper resurfacing options available for deep wrinkles, typically requiring 10–14 days of healing.
Is sun avoidance necessary?
Yes. Avoid sun 2 weeks before and after treatment for best results.
What treatments do you offer for skin tightening?
We offer Sofwave, a non-invasive ultrasound treatment that lifts and tightens skin on the face, jawline, neck, and thighs by stimulating collagen. No downtime, and results improve over 3–6 months. For tightening, we also offer Thermage, Ellacor, as well as laser coring and resurfacing
INSURANCE & BILLING
Does your office take insurance?
We are a self-pay office. We do not take insurance, but we provide an itemized medical receipt that you can submit to your insurance provider.
Does a dermatology visit get insurance coverage?
While we don’t bill insurance, many insurance companies reimburse for medically necessary dermatology visits if you submit the receipt.
Why does my medication need to be sent to a specialty pharmacy?
Specialty pharmacies focus on dermatology medications and often provide lower pricing or coupons if not covered by insurance.
Does your office offer payment plans?
At this time, we do not offer payment plans. Our front desk staff will be happy to discuss available payment options with you.
What are your deposits collected for? Is it required?
Deposits are required for new patient appointments to hold your spot and are applied toward your visit. They help reduce last-minute cancellations and no-shows.
Why does your office keep credit cards on file?
For your convenience and to streamline billing. Your information is securely stored and encrypted.
What if I don’t want my card kept on file?
We require a card to be kept on file for all patients. This policy is standard and necessary to schedule and maintain appointments.
Can I pay my bill online?
We do not offer online bill payment at this time. All payments are collected in office after your visit.
APPOINTMENTS & POLICIES
Can I book an appointment online?
Appointments cannot be booked online. Please call or text us at (212) 249-8118 to schedule your visit.
What is your late arrival policy?
If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, we may need to reschedule your appointment.
Is there a charge for late cancellations?
Yes, cancellations made within 48 hours of the appointment will be subject to a fee.
When should I submit my patient forms?
Please complete your forms at least 24 hours before your appointment.
Does your office offer telehealth appointments? Who is eligible?
Yes, for follow-ups and non-urgent skin concerns. Not all conditions are eligible. Contact us to find out if you qualify.
Can I get an urgent appointment?
Urgent appointments are not guaranteed. Please call to check availability, and we will do our best to assist you.
I am a new patient. Can I be squeezed in tomorrow?
Because new patient appointments require additional time, we recommend booking in advance. We do maintain a waitlist and will contact you if a spot becomes available.
Is there a waiting list for appointments?
Yes. Ask our front desk to be added.
CLINICAL CARE QUESTIONS
How often should I come in for skin cancer checks?
Once a year for most adults. More frequently if you have a history of skin cancer or high risk.
What skin cancer treatments does your office offer?
We offer excisions, cryotherapy, topical medications, and photodynamic therapy depending on the diagnosis.
I see your office recommends vinegar soaks for post-treatment care. What type of vinegar is okay to use?
Use white vinegar diluted with water as directed in your post-care instructions.
Why is it taking so long for my skin to heal?
Healing varies per patient. Sensitivity, skin type, body area and treatment depth can affect healing time. Contact us if you have concerns.
MEDICATION & PHARMACY
Medication needs prior authorization—how long does it take?
It typically takes 24–72 hours, depending on your insurance provider.
Can I get a refill if I haven’t been seen in 2 years?
Our policy requires a visit within the past year for any prescription refills.
MISCELLANEOUS
How much numbing cream should I use?
Apply a moderate amount to the area unless directed otherwise. Too much may cause irritation.
Should I be concerned if I turn red or itchy after applying numbing cream?
Mild redness or itching is common. If symptoms worsen or persist, wash off the cream and contact us.
Why does your office send so many text messages?
We use texts to confirm appointments, send reminders, provide instructions, and share updates—so you never miss important information.
Does your office keep insurance on file?
No, since we are a self-pay office, we do not store insurance information.