By Lizzie Weakley
Cosmetic surgeries are a great step towards feeling more confident about your physical appearance. It is important to maintain the results from these surgeries by taking excellent care of your skin. Read through this guide for a general guide for after-surgery skin care, but be sure to ask your doctor about any specific instructions for your procedure.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
The first few days after the procedure, it is a good idea to completely avoid being out in the sun as your skin is quite sensitive. After the initial healing period is over, use sunblock or a moisturizer with SPF to block both alpha and beta rays. Stay within the SPF 30-40 range as anything higher tends to block the pores. Any beautician will tell you that the daily use of sunscreen is perfect for protecting skin and slowing down the aging process; this is especially true if you have had a recent cosmetic surgery. Some of these procedures can result in hyperpigmentation if the proper care is not taken to avoid sunlight.
Stay Hydrated
Water becomes even more important following a cosmetic surgery. Drinking plenty of water is a proven way to detox the skin and keep it fresh and healthy. Your skin may be extremely dry after the procedure; drinking lots of water works even better than moisturizer to hydrate the skin.
Keep Skin Clean
The area will likely be quite sore and sensitive to the touch, but it is imperative to keep your skin clean. Only gentle hypoallergenic soaps should be used; do not use scrubs or anything with an exfoliant. You may consider using a hot damp towel to very gently rinse your face. Too much scrubbing can result in the loss of skin cells and hyperpigmentation.
Reduce Swelling
Invasive procedures can leave your face quite swollen. Sleep with your head higher than your heart and use cold compresses to reduce swelling. Ice is a great solution to swelling.
Mineral Makeup
Many makeups found in drug stores contain harsh chemicals and allergens that are likely to irritate the skin. Your doctor will probably tell you not to use makeup for a specified length of time; once this time is up, make sure to switch to a mineral-based makeup. You can also combat the purples of bruising with a green-based tone.
Proper skin care is crucial after a cosmetic procedure. Follow these and your doctor’s instructions for the best possible outcome.
Informational Credit:
This article was inspired by the Centric Health Surgical Centre in Sarnia, Ontario.
Comments are closed.