After an aesthetic treatment, skin is usually more sensitive than normal, so skincare comes down to three things: gentle cleansing, plenty of hydration and strict sun protection. For the first few days, follow your doctor's aftercare instructions exactly. Once your skin has settled, bring your usual products back step by step.
Why I care about post-treatment skincare
I have had aesthetic treatments myself. After high-energy device treatments, sometimes combined with injectables, my face always swells and puffs up, and my skin turns dry and tight. If you have been through it, you know how it feels to look in the mirror for those few days.
That was when I realised the treatment is only the beginning; how you care for your skin afterwards matters just as much. It is why I founded Lumaire: to find skincare that is genuinely practical and genuinely good, and to share it with people like me.
I believe aesthetic treatments and the right skincare work best together. A treatment happens once; daily care happens every day.
The first few days: do less
- Follow your doctor: laser, HIFU, skin boosters and other treatments each have different aftercare. Your doctor's instructions always come first.
- Pause strong actives: such as AHAs, salicylic acid, retinol and scrubs.
- Avoid heat: such as saunas and hot yoga, and wash your face with lukewarm rather than hot water.
- Use fewer products: the simpler your routine, the better.
Once skin has settled: hydration and sun protection
Cleanse gently. Choose a mild cleanser, such as the milky Swissline Cell Shock Age Intelligence Skin-Friendly Milk Cleanser.
Hydrate well. This is the most important step at this stage. I recommend the Swissline Cell Shock Age Intelligence Source Booster with 1.5% hyaluronic acid and the hydrating, soothing Swissline Force Vitale Hydra Soothing Mask.
Protect from the sun. Skin is more sensitive to sunlight after a treatment. Apply sunscreen every day and reapply every two hours outdoors, for example the SPF45 Swissline Cell Shock White Brightening Bi-Phase Veil.
Patch-test any new product behind the ear or along the jawline first. If your skin is still red or stinging, stop and check with your doctor.
Long-term care: everyday anti-ageing
Daily care between treatments matters just as much. Swissline's Cell Shock range focuses on anti-ageing care: choose the Luxe-Lift Rich Cream for a richer texture, or the Luxe-Lift Light Cream for a lighter feel.
FAQ
How soon can I go back to my usual skincare after a treatment? It depends on the treatment and your skin, so follow your doctor's advice. As a general rule, wait until your skin is fully settled with no redness or stinging, then add products back one at a time.
Do I really need sunscreen after a treatment? Yes. Treated skin is more sensitive to sunlight, so wear sunscreen every day, including on cloudy days and indoors near windows.
Can I use a face mask after a treatment? Ask your doctor first. Once your skin has settled, choose a hydrating, soothing mask and avoid formulas with acids or exfoliating ingredients.
Not sure which product suits you? Message me on WhatsApp (+852 6187 4540).
— Polly, Founder of Lumaire
This article is general skincare information and does not replace professional medical advice.