Just as soon as you leave the dermatologist’s office after a laser or microneedling appointment, your skin becomes basically an exposed nerve. This lesson I learned firsthand after my first IPL procedure, when I decided to apply my usual vitamin C serum and proceeded to spend the next two hours scratching my face because it felt as though it was being stung by a swarm of invisible bees. Bottom line: Post-procedure skin is not normal skin, and your normal skin care routine should step aside until further notice.
“When in doubt,” dermatologist Dr. Amy Wechsler, a consultant for Chanel who sees patients in New York, says, “go occlusive, fragrance-free, and boring.” Your skin barrier is under attack; it doesn’t need active ingredients. It needs a bodyguard.
As of now, I maintain a “recovery kit” for post-treatment days. And the highlight of my kit is Chanel Sublimage Le Baume – it is incredibly expensive but worth every penny; it is the most soothing product I have ever used on angry skin. However, if spending such money on skincare products is too extravagant for you, consider Alastin Soothe + Protect – this product was specially created by a dermatologist and works wonders after a procedure. Ceramides, panthenol, and centella asiatica should be among the list of ingredients. You definitely want to avoid all the fragrances, essential oils, acids, retinoids, vitamin C, and yes – even that niacinamide serum you love – for three days.
Post-treatment sun protection is a must. In fact, at this point your skin is more photosensitive than it usually is. Use only mineral (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) sun protection filters, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and sit in the shade. Do not take chances.
In other words, post-treatment skin requires special attention: treat your skin like a patient and not a project during at least seventy-two hours following a procedure.
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