Many skin treatments—including electrolysis, laser, dermal needling, peels and others—really involve a two-step process. There’s the treatment itself. And then there’s the post-treatment period, when the skin in treated areas must be allowed to recover and heal.
Of course, you’re in charge of the first step. But the second step? That’s largely up to your client. That’s why it’s so important for you to provide clients with the knowledge, tips and products they’ll need to properly care for their skin during this critical post-treatment healing period. Communication is the key. Clients should know that following your instructions will help ensure the best possible results with a minimum of discomfort.
First, set expectations. Make sure clients understand that it’s perfectly normal following treatment for their skin to appear red and slightly swollen—and that this condition can last for 2-3 days.
Reassure them that it’s a small price to pay for the healthy, hair-free, lustrous, beautiful skin that will soon emerge. But also make sure they’re aware it’s a time when their skin is sensitive and vulnerable. For this reason, they should avoid subjecting their skin to irritating conditions, including vigorous exercise and direct exposure to sunlight, for 48 hours following treatment. Many authorities further advise refraining from swimming or using saunas or steam baths during this period.
Next, consider providing the following care instructions and tips:
1. Keep the treated area clean.
The treated area should be cleaned regularly using lukewarm water and soap. Afterward, the area should be patted dry only, avoiding rubbing or removal of any of the scabbing that may have formed. Depending on the treatment, you may also want to recommend they use a general antiseptic, including witch hazel or hydrogen peroxide.
Recommended products:
• Thayer’s Witch Hazel Cucumber (alcohol free)
2. Apply ice or cold packs.
These can be very helpful for both reducing swelling and providing relief from minor pain or irritation.
Recommended products:
• Re-chillable Coolips – Simply chill in freezer or cooler, then apply as a cold compress. Available in convenient upper lip size, to provide welcome cooling relief.
• Instant Cold Packs – For larger areas or when you don’t have a freezer/refrigerator on site.
3. Avoid using makeup on treated areas.
Refrain from applying any makeup to the area on the day of treatment. Afterward, use only freshly purchased or opened makeup.
Recommended product:
• If you want your client to leave your office with less redness, Sterex Apres Cosmetic Creme (in clear) may help. It contains soothing properties that help guard against infection.
4. Moisturize treated area daily and apply appropriate topicals
When applied after thoroughly cleaning the area, a quality moisturizer can soothe and protect damaged skin while promoting healing. However, any cosmetics containing mineral oils, acids or alcohol-based toners should be avoided.
Recommended products:
• Neosporin Antibiotic Pain Relieving Cream– cream based antibiotic option
• Triple Antibiotic Ointment – ointment based and conveniently packaged to hand out to your clients and often used when a client has shown tendency to be slower to heal, or diabetic
• QiQi Aloe Vera Gel plus botanicals – cooling aloe vera
• Zensa Healing Cream – fresh citrus scent with excellent ingredients to promote healing, contains calendula (shown at left)
5. Avoid tanning or direct exposure to sunlight.
The length of time clients should avoid these activities depends on the treatment area, the client’s skin type and the amount of damage to the skin during treatment. However, most authorities advise against exposing treated areas to any direct sunlight for at least two days, and only minimal exposure for 7 to 10 days following treatment. Throughout this period, and even after, experts recommend using chemical-free sunscreen SPF 30+ formulated for broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Recommended Product:
• Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen
Remember, your clients depend on you for guidance. Take time to make sure they fully understand your recommendations and instructions for properly protecting and caring for their skin following treatment. It’s an easy way to ensure both you and your client come out looking your best!
Plus, we’re here to help you relay that information in a concise, easy-to-read manner with our Pre/Post Treatment Care Cards.
Tags: post treatment, skincare, sunscreen, aloe vera, witch hazel