Post-procedure skincare is a critical phase for ensuring optimal healing, maximizing the results of your treatment, and preventing complications. Skin can be very sensitive and reactive after cosmetic procedures, so a gentle, supportive, and protective approach to skincare is paramount.
It's crucial to always follow the specific instructions provided by your dermatologist or the healthcare professional who performed your procedure, as they will tailor advice to your individual needs and the exact treatment you received. Learn more about our post-procedure skincare tips below.
Essential Post-Treatment & Procedure Skincare Tips
1. Follow Your Doctor's Instructions Diligently: This is the most important rule. Your practitioner will provide specific guidelines regarding cleansing, moisturizing, sun protection, and what to avoid. These instructions are personalized for your procedure type, skin type, and healing progress for your post-procedure care.
2. Gentle Cleansing is Key:
Use a Mild Cleanser: Opt for a non-foaming, fragrance-free, gentle cleanser like our Cleansing Gel that gently and thoroughly cleanses the skin and removes dirt, excess oil and makeup.
Lukewarm Water: Use lukewarm water, not hot, to avoid further irritation or stripping the skin.
Pat Dry: Gently pat your skin dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, which can disrupt the healing process.
3. Prioritize Hydration and Barrier Support:
- Soothing Moisturizer: Apply a rich, creamy moisturizer like Trio Luxe Moisture Treatment, Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment, and the Hydration Boosting Cream.
- Frequent Application: You may need to apply moisturizer more frequently than usual, especially in the initial healing phase, to keep the skin comfortable and prevent dryness or flaking.
- High SPF, Broad-Spectrum: New skin is extremely vulnerable to UV damage, which can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and delay healing. Use a broad-spectrum post-procedure sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Mineral Sunscreens Preferred: Often, physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are recommended as they are less irritating for sensitive, healing skin. Discover our Mineral Sunscreen Collection.
- Strict Avoidance: Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible. Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and seek shade, especially during peak UV hours. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if sweating or swimming (if allowed).
- Fragrance-Free Products: Avoid products with fragrances, dyes, or essential oils, as these can be irritating to compromised skin.
- Hands Off: Resist the urge to pick, scratch, or peel any scabs or flaking skin. This can lead to scarring and infection.
- No Makeup (Initially): Depending on the procedure, you might need to avoid makeup for a few days to a week or more to prevent infection and allow the skin to breathe and heal. When you do reintroduce it, use clean applicators and gentle, non-comedogenic formulas.
- Cool Compresses: For immediate post-procedure swelling or discomfort, cool compresses (not ice directly on the skin) can be soothing.
- Calming Ingredients: Look for ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, such as Centella Asiatica (Cica), aloe vera, colloidal oatmeal, or allantoin, in your post-care products.
- Drink plenty of water to support overall skin health and aid in the healing process from within.
Healing takes time. Don't expect immediate perfection. Your skin will go through various stages of recovery, and consistency with your aftercare routine is crucial for the best results.
Specific Considerations for Different Procedures:
- Laser Treatments & Chemical Peels: Often involve significant redness, swelling, and peeling. Sun protection and barrier repair are paramount.
- Microneedling: Focus on gentle cleansing, hydration, and avoiding active ingredients immediately after.
- Injectables (e.g., Fillers, Botox): Bruising and swelling are common. Gentle care, avoiding vigorous massage of the treated area, and sun protection are important.
Always remember that these tips are general guidance. Your skin is unique, and your procedure specific, so direct communication with your healthcare provider is your best resource for personalized advice during the recovery period.
