Post-Procedure Skincare Doesn’t Need to Be Complicated: 10 Expert-Approved Tips
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Seeing a derm for practically any procedure used to be a big deal. But thanks to more and more people getting microneedling, lasers, and peels, to name a few, in-office procedures are more popular than ever—and people are getting open about them, including what happens after they visit the dermatologist’s office.
“Patients today want transparency,” says Ariel Ostad, M.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist & Dermatologic Surgeon. “Seeing real recoveries online helps set realistic expectations, reduces anxiety, and shows that temporary redness, peeling, or swelling is normal. It also makes cosmetic dermatology feel more approachable and less intimidating.”
But just because influencers are taking to TikTok to share their step-by-step recovery doesn’t mean that their tips work for everyone. “It is best to look for board-certified dermatologists or professionals when looking for trustworthy advice,” says Marisa Garshick, M.D., board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology and Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine. “Regardless of what you see online, it is always best to speak with your doctor regarding the recovery process and how to manage expectations. Social media can be helpful to get a general sense of what to expect, but it is still just one person’s experience. For personalized recommendations, it should be based on the individual and the specific procedure being performed. Everyone has different skin and may respond differently and require a different post-procedure plan.”
To maximize results and ensure your skin heals properly and safely, we asked Dr. Garshick and Dr. Ostad to share a foolproof routine. Below, find 10 dermatologist-approved post-procedure skincare tips.
Always Listen to Your Derm
It might be tempting to go rogue and copy that tip you saw on TikTok, but it’s crucial to follow post-procedure instructions shared by your dermatologist or provider to help maximize results and minimize downtime and complications. “Many procedures can leave the skin more sensitive than usual, and often with a weakened skin barrier, so using proper skincare as directed is key,” Dr. Garshick says. “For example, if someone uses a product that is too harsh for the skin while healing, it can lead to irritation, scarring, or pigmentation.”
Be sure to ask your derm which products to use, which ones to avoid, and the expected overall downtime. It’s also helpful to ask when you can safely resume your regular skincare routine, including active ingredients like retinoids or exfoliants.
Doubt the Dunk
Influencers have gone viral for dunking their faces in Aquaphor post-procedure, but this is only good for likes. “Over-applying heavy ointments can clog pores or trap heat,” Dr. Ostad says. “A thin layer for barrier support is fine; I recommend lighter, medical-grade moisturizers instead, depending on your procedure.”
Cleanse Carefully
“It is best to use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip or dry out the skin,” Dr. Garshick says. “Harsh soaps or exfoliating washes can interfere with the healing process and should be avoided.” Don’t use hot water and pat—not rub—the skin dry to avoid disrupting healing.
Prioritize Sun Protection
Rain or shine, be sure to wear SPF and reapply it regularly because many procedures make skin more sensitive to the sun. Plus, UV exposure may lead to post-procedure hyperpigmentation and scarring. “Freshly treated skin is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation,” Dr. Ostad says. “A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (physical blockers) is safest. Opt for fragrance-free, mineral-based sunscreens formulated for sensitive skin.”
Even brief sun exposure can lead to dark spots, delayed healing, or uneven results. “It is important to limit sun exposure as much as possible during the healing phase,” Dr. Garshick says. “The skin is more sensitive to the sun, and even minimal sun exposure can increase the risk of irritation and hyperpigmentation. UPF clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and seeking shade are just as important as sunscreen during this time.”
Stick to Gentle Hydration
This is key to restoring moisture and supporting the skin barrier during the healing process. “Some key ingredients include ceramides to support the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid to draw moisture in, niacinamide to soothe the skin, or petrolatum to lock moisture in,” Dr. Garshick says. “These ingredients reduce dryness and minimize discomfort during recovery while calming and soothing the skin.”
Avoid Fragrance
Leave the fragrance for your perfume and opt for fragrance-free skincare. “Fragrance can trigger irritation, redness, or dermatitis, especially when the skin barrier is weakened,” Dr. Ostad says. “Stick with gentle, fragrance-free formulas.” Since skin is already more compromised post-procedure, it’s best to minimize added ingredients when possible.
Skip Active Ingredients
Exfoliants, retinoids, and other harsh ingredients can irritate and aggravate the skin while healing. “In some cases, vitamin C may be okay to introduce post-procedure, but it is always best to speak with your board-certified dermatologist to see what is recommended for you, depending on your skin and the procedure,” Dr. Garshick says. “The skin should recover before reintroducing active ingredients to minimize sensitivity, but once healed, the products can be gradually added back into a routine.”
Go Barefaced
Don’t wear makeup for at least the first few days after a procedure—applying and removing makeup can irritate the skin. “Makeup can clog pores, introduce bacteria, or cause irritation,” Dr. Ostad says. “Once the skin barrier has recovered, non-comedogenic, mineral-based makeup may be safe.”
Don’t Touch Your Face
Remember in the early days of Covid when everyone stressed how bad it was to touch your face? Channel that advice again. “Hands carry bacteria and oils that can lead to infection or inflammation,” Dr. Ostad says. “Touching, rubbing, or picking at treated skin can also damage results.”
Steer Clear of Sweat Sessions
Right now, exercise and saunas are not your friend.While it may vary based on the specific procedure, Dr. Garshick advises that it is best to avoid sweating for 2-5 days after a procedure, as sweat can contribute to irritation and breakouts. Dr. Ostad explains, “Heat, sweat, and increased circulation can worsen swelling, cause irritation, and delay healing.”
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