The Importance of Thorough Aftercare Following a Dermatological Treatment

After a dermatological procedure, thorough aftercare is essential for optimal healing and to prevent complications such as infections, scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This hyperpigmentation occurs when the treated skin becomes darker in response to inflammation and can be visible for a prolonged period of time.

Thorough Aftercare Steps for Better Treatment Effect

After a dermatological treatment such as a peel, laser therapy or surgical procedure, the skin undergoes a natural healing process. This can be accompanied by redness, swelling and sometimes slight pain. Although these inflammatory responses are normal, effective aftercare is essential to accelerate recovery, prevent complications such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and keep the skin healthy. Here are some important steps and products to optimally support your skin after a treatment.

The Important Role of Cleaning

A clean skin forms the basis for effective recovery and better absorption of active ingredients. Use a mild cleanser such as Cleansing Milk Step 1 to gently remove excess sebum, dirt, and makeup without irritating the skin. A good cleansing prepares the skin for the application of soothing and repairing products, which is essential after a dermatological treatment.

Why clean up after a treatment?

• Removes impurities that can clog pores.
• Prepares the skin for optimal absorption of soothing creams and serums.

Calming the Skin

The skin needs extra support after a treatment to control inflammatory responses and reduce redness. Choose a calming product that has been specifically developed to care for sensitive skin.

Calming Cream

• Ingredients: Marshmallow root, avena sativa (oat extract), and ectoine
• Werking:
  • Marshmallow root: Soothes the skin and reduces visible irritations. More about Marshmallow root
  • Avena sativa: Soothes inflammation and provides deep hydration. More about Avena Sativa
  • Ectoine: Protects skin cells from environmental stress and supports a faster recovery process. Learn more about Ectoine

Effectiveness

• Reduces redness and irritation immediately after treatment.
• Strengthens the skin barrier, which is essential for healthy healing.
• Leaves the skin feeling comfortable and prevents further damage from external factors.

The use of the Calming Cream is an important step in your aftercare routine to balance the skin and optimally restore it after treatments.

Preventing Pigmentation

A common complication after treatments is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This is caused by increased melanin production during the healing process. An effective aftercare routine can significantly reduce this risk.

Spot Reducer Cream (For sensitive skin)

• Ingredients: Niacinamide and ectoine
• Werking:
  • Niacinamide regulates melanin production and prevents dark spots. More about Niacinamide
  • Ectoine protects against cell stress and supports an even skin tone.
• Suitable for: People with sensitive skin who need a gentle approach without irritating ingredients.

Targeted Pigment Serum (For normal and oily skin)

• Ingredients: Arbutin, niacinamide and malic acid
• Werking:
  • Arbutine inhibits the formation of melanin and reduces existing pigment spots.
  • Niacinamide soothes the skin and strengthens the skin barrier.
  • Malic acid, a mild AHA, gently exfoliates the skin to promote an even skin tone.
• Suitable for: People with normal to oily skin who need a more powerful approach to fight against pigmentation spots.

Effectiveness

• Spot Reducer Cream: Ideal for sensitive skin that needs soothing and mild pigment regulation.
• Targeted Pigment Serum: More suitable for skin types that are more tolerant to active ingredients and seeking intensive pigment correction.

Protect Against the Sun

After a dermatological treatment, the skin is particularly vulnerable and sensitive to harmful influences of UV rays and visible light. This increases the risk of pigmentation problems such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and slows down the healing process. The use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential to protect the skin and support a healthy healing process.

Iconic Elements Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF30

The Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF30 from Iconic Elements not only provides effective protection, but has also been independently tested and certified for optimal coverage against UVA, UVB rays and visible light.

• Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxide
• Operation:
• Zinkoxide
  • Forms a physical barrier on the skin that reflects harmful UVA and UVB rays.
  • Soothes and protects the skin through anti-inflammatory properties.
• Titaniumdioxide
  • Effective in blocking UVB rays and additional UVA protection.
  • Works well together with zinc oxide for a broader protection spectrum.
• Ijzeroxide:
  • Protects against visible light, which is important for people with pigmentation problems such as melasma.
  • Minimizes the effects of blue light, which can accelerate skin aging.

Effectiveness

• Broad Spectrum Protection: The combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provides comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Prevention of Pigmentation: Due to the presence of iron oxide, the skin is also protected against visible light, which is crucial in preventing pigment spots, especially for people with a tinted skin or an increased sensitivity to hyperpigmentation.
• Suitable for sensitive skin: The mineral filters are gentle on the skin, making them ideal for use after treatments and for people with sensitive skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aftercare

How often should I apply aftercare products?

For effective aftercare, it is crucial to match the frequency of applying aftercare products to both the specific skin need and the type of dermatological treatment. In general, it is advised to use these products 1-2 times per day, depending on the severity of skin irritation and the recommendations of your treating specialist.

It is important to gently clean the treated area before applying the product, to ensure maximum effectiveness and skin comfort. Regular application can help speed up the healing process and reduce any potential complications such as hyperpigmentation or infection.

Can I combine these products with other skincare products?

Yes, you can safely combine these aftercare products with other gentle skincare products that do not irritate the skin. However, it is important to avoid the use of products with irritating or active ingredients during the healing process. Once your skin is fully healed, you can gradually resume your regular skincare routine. This ensures optimal healing without imposing additional strain on the skin.

What should I avoid during my recovery period?

During your recovery period after a dermatological treatment, it is crucial to avoid direct sunlight to prevent hyperpigmentation or further damage. Also, refrain from using exfoliating or abrasive products, as these can irritate or damage the healing skin. Moreover, it is important to avoid activities that can irritate the skin, such as intense sports in extreme weather conditions. Focus on protecting and gently treating your skin until it is fully healed.

Why is cleaning important after a dermatological treatment?

Cleaning removes impurities and prepares the skin for better absorption of soothing and reparative products.

In other words

Thorough and careful aftercare is crucial after a dermatological treatment. By using the right products and techniques, the skin can effectively recover, while future complications such as hyperpigmentation are minimized.