You’ve invested time and resources into your aesthetic treatment now it’s time to protect that investment. Proper aftercare isn’t just about avoiding complications; it’s about optimising your results and ensuring they last as long as possible. Here’s your comprehensive guide to post-treatment care.
Why Aftercare Matters
The period following your treatment is when your skin is actively healing and regenerating. What you do during this time can significantly impact your final results. Proper aftercare:
Supports the healing process
Reduces the risk of complications
Enhances and extends your results
Prevents pigmentation issues
Minimises downtime
Universal Aftercare Guidelines
While specific instructions vary depending on your treatment, these general principles apply to most aesthetic procedures:
Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable
After virtually any skin treatment, your skin is more vulnerable to UV damage. Sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation, compromise your results, and even lead to complications. For at least two weeks post-treatment:
Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily, even indoors
Reapply every two hours if outdoors
Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outside
Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours
Be aware that UV rays penetrate windows
Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Hydration supports healing and helps maintain your skin barrier. Use gentle, hydrating products recommended by your practitioner. Drink plenty of water to support your skin from within.
Avoid Irritants
For the first few days to weeks after treatment (depending on the procedure), avoid:
Retinoids and retinol products
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)
Vitamin C serums (unless advised otherwise)
Exfoliating scrubs
Fragranced products
Alcohol-based toners
Don’t Touch or Pick
It can be tempting to touch your face after treatment, especially if you’re experiencing peeling or flaking. Resist the urge. Picking at your skin can cause scarring, infection, and pigmentation issues.
Treatment-Specific Aftercare
After Ultherapy
You can resume normal activities immediately
Some redness or swelling is normal and typically resolves within hours
Tenderness may persist for a few days
Results develop gradually over 2-3 months
Maintain a good skincare routine to support collagen production
After Morpheus 8
Expect redness and mild swelling for 2-5 days
Small pinpoint marks may be visible for 1-2 days
Keep the area clean and apply recommended healing products
Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours
Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours
After Dermal Fillers
Avoid touching or massaging the treated area (unless instructed)
Apply ice to reduce swelling if needed
Avoid intense heat (saunas, hot yoga) for 24-48 hours
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours
Sleep on your back for the first night
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours
Some swelling and bruising is normal
After Muscle-Relaxing Treatments
Remain upright for 4 hours after treatment
Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area
Avoid lying face-down for 24 hours
Avoid intense exercise for 24 hours
Results typically appear within 3-14 days
Long-Term Maintenance
Maintaining your results extends beyond the immediate post-treatment period. For lasting benefits:
Commit to daily sun protection: This is the single most important thing you can do
Follow a consistent skincare routine: Use products that support your treatment goals
Stay hydrated: Good hydration supports skin health from within
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Sleep, nutrition, and stress management all affect your skin
Schedule maintenance treatments: Most treatments benefit from periodic touch-ups
Attend follow-up appointments: We can assess your results and adjust your plan as needed
When to Contact Us
While some side effects are normal, contact our clinic if you experience:
Severe or increasing pain
Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus)
Unusual swelling or bruising
Fever
Any concerns that worry you
We’re here to support you throughout your journey. Never hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns.
Questions About Your Treatment?
Our team is always available to answer your aftercare questions and ensure you achieve the best possible results.
