After aesthetic procedures such as injectables, skin boosters, lasers, microneedling, chemical peels, or body contouring, your skincare routine plays a decisive role in healing, comfort, and long-term results. Using the wrong products too soon can compromise outcomes, while the right post-procedure skincare can protect your investment, accelerate recovery, and enhance visible results.
This guide outlines what to use, what to avoid, and how to build a safe, effective post-procedure skincare routine. It also highlights professional-grade solutions designed to support recovery and skin quality.
Why Post-Procedure Skincare Matters
Aesthetic treatments temporarily disrupt the skin barrier to stimulate renewal, collagen production, or volume enhancement. During this window, the skin is more vulnerable to irritation, dehydration, inflammation, and pigmentation.
A proper post-procedure routine helps to:
- Restore and protect the skin barrier
- Reduce redness, swelling, and sensitivity
- Prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Prolong and enhance treatment results
The Golden Rules After Any Aesthetic Procedure
Regardless of the procedure, these principles apply:
- Less is more: Keep routines minimal and purposeful
- Hydration is critical: Support skin repair from within and without
- Sun protection is non-negotiable: UV exposure can reverse results
- Follow professional timelines: Do not rush active ingredients
What to Use After Aesthetic Procedures
1. Gentle, Non-Stripping Cleansers
For the first 3–7 days, cleanse only with mild, low-foaming, fragrance-free cleansers. The goal is to remove impurities without disrupting healing skin.
Look for:
- pH-balanced formulas
- No sulfates, alcohol, or exfoliating acids
Avoid:
- Cleansing brushes, scrubs, or double cleansing during early recovery.
2. Barrier-Repairing Hydration
Hydration is essential after injectables, lasers, and skin boosters. Ingredients that mimic the skin’s natural moisture system help accelerate recovery and improve texture.
Key ingredients to prioritize:
- Hyaluronic Acid (multi-molecular)
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
- Polyglutamic Acid
- Ceramides
Professional insight: Advanced HA-based formulations, such as Radieux+ hydration and skin-quality solutions are designed to complement in-clinic procedures by reinforcing moisture retention and skin elasticity during recovery.
3. Soothing and Anti-Inflammatory Products
Post-procedure skin often experiences redness, warmth, or mild swelling. Calming agents reduce discomfort and prevent secondary irritation.
Recommended ingredients:
- Centella Asiatica
- Madecassoside
- Allantoin
- Beta-glucan
These ingredients are particularly beneficial after laser treatments, microneedling, and chemical peels.
4. High-Protection Sunscreen (SPF 30–50+)
Sun exposure is one of the fastest ways to compromise post-procedure results. Apply sunscreen daily, even indoors, once approved by your provider.
Choose:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30–50+
- Mineral or hybrid sunscreens for sensitive skin
- Lightweight, non-comedogenic textures
- Reapply every 2–3 hours when exposed to daylight.
5. Skin Boosters and Recovery-Focused Treatments (When Approved)
Once the skin has stabilized, targeted products that support dermal hydration and regeneration can enhance longevity of results.
Clinically formulated skin boosters, such as Radieux+ PN and HA-based solutions are often incorporated into professional aftercare protocols to support skin density, glow, and elasticity without overloading compromised skin.
What to Avoid After Aesthetic Procedures
1. Active Ingredients (Temporarily)
Avoid for at least 7–14 days (or as advised):
- Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin)
- AHAs/BHAs (Glycolic, Lactic, Salicylic Acid)
- Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)
- Benzoyl Peroxide
These actives can cause irritation, delayed healing, and pigmentation.
2. Physical Exfoliation
Scrubs, exfoliating pads, and aggressive tools can damage healing skin and should be avoided until full recovery.
3. Heat and Sweat Exposure
For 48–72 hours post-procedure, avoid:
- Saunas and steam rooms
- Hot baths
- Intense exercise
Heat can increase inflammation and affect injectables placement.
4. Heavy Makeup and Occlusive Products
Immediately post-treatment, heavy foundations and pore-clogging products may trap bacteria and interfere with healing.
If makeup is necessary, use clean tools and non-comedogenic formulas.