If you\u2019ve ever had an in-office dermatology treatment\u2014whether a neurotoxin injection or laser resurfacing\u2014you know providers emphasize proper pre- and post-procedure care. Avoiding sweat and staying out of the sun for a set period are essential, but what about your skin-care routine? Before and after any treatment, it\u2019s crucial to stick to gentle products. This is especially important in winter, when dermatologists often see an uptick in professional treatments as cooler weather and less sun make it an ideal time to book procedures.<\/p>\n
Ahead, dermatologists and experts break down exactly what to use\u2014and what to avoid\u2014before and after your appointment.<\/p>\n
Featured Experts<\/h2>\n\n- Dr. Ben Witkoff is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon in Miami<\/li>\n
- Debra Luftman, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills and Calabasas, CA<\/li>\n
- Chelsea Strauser is vice president of buying at Dermstore<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What to Look for in Pre-Procedure Skin-Care Products<\/h2>\n
The key is avoiding potential irritation. Before and after a procedure, you don\u2019t want your skin to be aggravated. \u201cFor both pre- and post-procedure skin care, products should avoid provoking or exacerbating inflammation, as excessive inflammation can compromise procedural options and impair healing,\u201d says Miami dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon Dr. Ben Witkoff.<\/p>\n
When it comes to pre-procedure care specifically, it\u2019s all about preparing the skin for what comes next. \u201cUse formulations that gently prepare and optimize the skin without causing irritation or inflammatory responses that could restrict the choice or intensity of treatment,\u201d says Dr. Witkoff. Specifically, consider \u201cgentle exfoliants (like low-strength AHAs or PHAs), antioxidants (vitamin C, green tea), barrier-supporting hydrators (hyaluronic acid, glycerin) and broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen at least SPF 30,\u201d says Beverly Hills and Calabasas, CA dermatologist Debra Luftman, MD.<\/p>\n
Also remember to \u201cdiscontinue retinol and prescription retinoids at least one to two weeks before any procedure,\u201d recommends Dr. Witkoff, though your provider should give you exact directions. \u201cTiming for when to resume will depend on the specific treatment.\u201d<\/p>\n
What to Look for in Post-Procedure Skin-Care Items<\/h2>\n
After treatment, the focus shifts even more toward restorative skin care. \u201cThe goal is always to support healing, minimize inflammation and protect the skin barrier,\u201d says Dr. Luftman. A smart post-procedure regimen allows for the best experience possible and \u201cis critical to speeding up recovery and yielding the best results from your investment in the treatment,\u201d says Chelsea Strauser, vice president of buying at Dermstore. \u201cProcedure-doers should seek out simple formulas focused on hydration and gentle application. Protecting with sunscreen during the day is crucial as well.\u201d<\/p>\n
Post-procedure, there are several ingredients to avoid. Dr. Luftman specifically recommends steering clear of retinoids, high-strength acids, benzoyl peroxide, physical scrubs, cleansing brushes, fragrance, essential oils, menthol, eucalyptus and alcohol-heavy formulations.<\/p>\n
Pre-Procedure Skin-Care Product Recommendations<\/h2>\n
\u201cMore than ever, brands are recognizing the need for post-procedure care due to demand and have introduced innovations explicitly meant to optimize in-office results and recovery,\u201d says Strauser. She curated a collection of pre- and post-treatment-friendly products designed to support patients as they prepare for\u2014and recover from\u2014their dermatologist visits. \u201cMany of those listed have clinical trials conducted on patients post-treatment for proof points,\u201d she adds. Check them out below.<\/p>\n
\n\n 2<\/span> \/ 4<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nNext, when choosing a serum, Strauser recommends the <\/span>SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst Exfoliating Booster Serum<\/span> ($120). Dr. Witkoff suggests using it \u201conce daily for one to two weeks before the procedure as the first step after cleansing.\u201d When used appropriately\u2014Dr. Luftman advises stopping several days beforehand\u2014\u201cit gently accelerates cell turnover and helps create a more even canvas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n ![\"SkinCeuticals](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/skinceuticals-cell-cycle-catalyst.jpg\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 3<\/span> \/ 4<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nAfter your serum, it\u2019s important to seal everything in with a moisturizer. For this step, Strauser recommends the <\/span>Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream<\/span> ($49). Dr. Witkoff points out that it\u2019s non-comedogenic, making it especially helpful for oily, <\/span>breakout-prone skin<\/span>. Dr. Luftman adds that it\u2019s \u201cwell-formulated with barrier-supporting ingredients\u201d and reminds us that \u201ckeeping the skin well hydrated pre-procedure helps optimize recovery afterward.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n ![\"medik8](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/medik8-total-moisture-cream-375x375.jpg\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 4<\/span> \/ 4<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nLastly, no skin-care routine is complete without sunscreen, and Strauser recommends the <\/span>Sent\u00e9 Even Tone Mineral Sunscreen<\/span> ($75), which Dr. Luftman calls an \u201cexcellent\u201d choice. \u201cMineral sunscreen with anti-inflammatory benefits helps calm skin and prevent pre-procedure UV damage that can compromise healing and pigment outcomes,\u201d she says. Be sure to reapply throughout the day.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n ![\"sente](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sente-even-tone-sunscreen-375x375.jpg\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\nPost-Procedure Skin-Care Product Recommendations<\/h2>\n
It\u2019s all about simple, gentle formulas for the days and weeks after a procedure, especially when it comes to treatments that have longer recovery times like lasers. \u201cThe products are gentle and healing and should be fine for most skin types, but it\u2019s always best to discuss your post-treatment plan with your doctor\/professional to design what\u2019s best for your skin,\u201d says Strauser. Here\u2019s what her ideal post-procedure skin-care routine looks like.<\/p>\n
\n\n 1<\/span> \/ 5<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nSerums often take center stage in post-procedure skin care. There are several worth incorporating, and they can help support and even accelerate the healing process. First up is the <\/span>iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance Plus<\/span> ($177), which is \u201cdesigned for post-procedural use to reduce downtime,\u201d says Dr. Witkoff. It contains a \u201ccombination of vitamin C, vitamin E and anti-inflammatory ingredients to support healing, reduce redness and help prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation,\u201d adds Dr. Luftman.<\/span><\/p>\nAnother option Strauser highlights is the <\/span>BioEffect 3xGF Recovery Serum<\/span> ($329). Though it\u2019s a splurge, it uses \u201ca combination of growth factors to accelerate healing time while soothing the skin,\u201d says Dr. Witkoff. Growth factor\u2013based products can be particularly helpful \u201cafter energy-based treatments or microneedling,\u201d Dr. Luftman adds.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n ![\"is](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/is-clinical-pro-heal-serum-advanced-plus.jpg\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 2<\/span> \/ 5<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nBecause post-procedure skin care centers on hydration and barrier repair, moisturizers are a core part of the routine. Strauser highlights two of her favorites. First is the <\/span>Allies of Skin Molecular Barrier Recovery Cream Balm<\/span> ($95), which Dr. Witkoff calls \u201cexcellent\u201d for \u201csoothing and repairing the skin.\u201d Dr. Luftman notes that a barrier-supporting balm like this \u201cis especially beneficial after procedures that disrupt the skin barrier, helping reduce transepidermal water loss and irritation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\nAnother option is the <\/span>SkinCeuticals Advanced RGN-6 Regenerative Cream<\/span> ($195), which offers serious skin-care benefits whether you\u2019ve had a procedure or not. It \u201csignificantly improves aging skin even without procedures,\u201d says Dr. Witkoff.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n ![\"skinceuticals](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/skinceuticals-advanced-rgn-6-375x375.png\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 3<\/span> \/ 5<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nJust as with pre-procedure skin care, sunscreen is essential. <\/span>EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Face Sunscreen SPF 50<\/span> ($52) is <\/span>Strauser\u2019s<\/span> pick, and with<\/span> \u201c<\/span>recovery<\/span>\u201d <\/span>in the name, <\/span>it\u2019s<\/span> a strong choice for post-procedure skin.<\/span> \u201c<\/span>It combines mineral UV protection with barrier-repair and redness-neutralizing benefits\u2014ideal for sensitive, healing skin<\/span>,<\/span>\u201d <\/span>says Dr. Luftman.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n ![\"EltaMD](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mineral-sunscreen-7-375x375.png\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 5<\/span> \/ 5<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nLastly\u2014and only once the skin is ready\u2014<\/span>a red light mask can be introduced<\/span>. Strauser recommends the <\/span>HigherDose Red Light Face Mask<\/span> ($349). \u201cRed light therapy can be a helpful adjunct post-procedure, as it may reduce inflammation and support collagen production when used as directed and once the skin is ready,\u201d says Dr. Luftman.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n ![\"higherdose](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/My-project-79-2.jpg\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n
What to Look for in Pre-Procedure Skin-Care Products<\/h2>\n
The key is avoiding potential irritation. Before and after a procedure, you don\u2019t want your skin to be aggravated. \u201cFor both pre- and post-procedure skin care, products should avoid provoking or exacerbating inflammation, as excessive inflammation can compromise procedural options and impair healing,\u201d says Miami dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon Dr. Ben Witkoff.<\/p>\n
When it comes to pre-procedure care specifically, it\u2019s all about preparing the skin for what comes next. \u201cUse formulations that gently prepare and optimize the skin without causing irritation or inflammatory responses that could restrict the choice or intensity of treatment,\u201d says Dr. Witkoff. Specifically, consider \u201cgentle exfoliants (like low-strength AHAs or PHAs), antioxidants (vitamin C, green tea), barrier-supporting hydrators (hyaluronic acid, glycerin) and broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen at least SPF 30,\u201d says Beverly Hills and Calabasas, CA dermatologist Debra Luftman, MD.<\/p>\n
Also remember to \u201cdiscontinue retinol and prescription retinoids at least one to two weeks before any procedure,\u201d recommends Dr. Witkoff, though your provider should give you exact directions. \u201cTiming for when to resume will depend on the specific treatment.\u201d<\/p>\n
What to Look for in Post-Procedure Skin-Care Items<\/h2>\n
After treatment, the focus shifts even more toward restorative skin care. \u201cThe goal is always to support healing, minimize inflammation and protect the skin barrier,\u201d says Dr. Luftman. A smart post-procedure regimen allows for the best experience possible and \u201cis critical to speeding up recovery and yielding the best results from your investment in the treatment,\u201d says Chelsea Strauser, vice president of buying at Dermstore. \u201cProcedure-doers should seek out simple formulas focused on hydration and gentle application. Protecting with sunscreen during the day is crucial as well.\u201d<\/p>\n
Post-procedure, there are several ingredients to avoid. Dr. Luftman specifically recommends steering clear of retinoids, high-strength acids, benzoyl peroxide, physical scrubs, cleansing brushes, fragrance, essential oils, menthol, eucalyptus and alcohol-heavy formulations.<\/p>\n
Pre-Procedure Skin-Care Product Recommendations<\/h2>\n
\u201cMore than ever, brands are recognizing the need for post-procedure care due to demand and have introduced innovations explicitly meant to optimize in-office results and recovery,\u201d says Strauser. She curated a collection of pre- and post-treatment-friendly products designed to support patients as they prepare for\u2014and recover from\u2014their dermatologist visits. \u201cMany of those listed have clinical trials conducted on patients post-treatment for proof points,\u201d she adds. Check them out below.<\/p>\n
2<\/span> \/ 4<\/span> <\/p>\n Next, when choosing a serum, Strauser recommends the <\/span>SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst Exfoliating Booster Serum<\/span> ($120). Dr. Witkoff suggests using it \u201conce daily for one to two weeks before the procedure as the first step after cleansing.\u201d When used appropriately\u2014Dr. Luftman advises stopping several days beforehand\u2014\u201cit gently accelerates cell turnover and helps create a more even canvas.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n 3<\/span> \/ 4<\/span> <\/p>\n After your serum, it\u2019s important to seal everything in with a moisturizer. For this step, Strauser recommends the <\/span>Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream<\/span> ($49). Dr. Witkoff points out that it\u2019s non-comedogenic, making it especially helpful for oily, <\/span>breakout-prone skin<\/span>. Dr. Luftman adds that it\u2019s \u201cwell-formulated with barrier-supporting ingredients\u201d and reminds us that \u201ckeeping the skin well hydrated pre-procedure helps optimize recovery afterward.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n 4<\/span> \/ 4<\/span> <\/p>\n Lastly, no skin-care routine is complete without sunscreen, and Strauser recommends the <\/span>Sent\u00e9 Even Tone Mineral Sunscreen<\/span> ($75), which Dr. Luftman calls an \u201cexcellent\u201d choice. \u201cMineral sunscreen with anti-inflammatory benefits helps calm skin and prevent pre-procedure UV damage that can compromise healing and pigment outcomes,\u201d she says. Be sure to reapply throughout the day.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n It\u2019s all about simple, gentle formulas for the days and weeks after a procedure, especially when it comes to treatments that have longer recovery times like lasers. \u201cThe products are gentle and healing and should be fine for most skin types, but it\u2019s always best to discuss your post-treatment plan with your doctor\/professional to design what\u2019s best for your skin,\u201d says Strauser. Here\u2019s what her ideal post-procedure skin-care routine looks like.<\/p>\n 1<\/span> \/ 5<\/span> <\/p>\n Serums often take center stage in post-procedure skin care. There are several worth incorporating, and they can help support and even accelerate the healing process. First up is the <\/span>iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance Plus<\/span> ($177), which is \u201cdesigned for post-procedural use to reduce downtime,\u201d says Dr. Witkoff. It contains a \u201ccombination of vitamin C, vitamin E and anti-inflammatory ingredients to support healing, reduce redness and help prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation,\u201d adds Dr. Luftman.<\/span><\/p>\n Another option Strauser highlights is the <\/span>BioEffect 3xGF Recovery Serum<\/span> ($329). Though it\u2019s a splurge, it uses \u201ca combination of growth factors to accelerate healing time while soothing the skin,\u201d says Dr. Witkoff. Growth factor\u2013based products can be particularly helpful \u201cafter energy-based treatments or microneedling,\u201d Dr. Luftman adds.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n 2<\/span> \/ 5<\/span> <\/p>\n Because post-procedure skin care centers on hydration and barrier repair, moisturizers are a core part of the routine. Strauser highlights two of her favorites. First is the <\/span>Allies of Skin Molecular Barrier Recovery Cream Balm<\/span> ($95), which Dr. Witkoff calls \u201cexcellent\u201d for \u201csoothing and repairing the skin.\u201d Dr. Luftman notes that a barrier-supporting balm like this \u201cis especially beneficial after procedures that disrupt the skin barrier, helping reduce transepidermal water loss and irritation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Another option is the <\/span>SkinCeuticals Advanced RGN-6 Regenerative Cream<\/span> ($195), which offers serious skin-care benefits whether you\u2019ve had a procedure or not. It \u201csignificantly improves aging skin even without procedures,\u201d says Dr. Witkoff.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n 3<\/span> \/ 5<\/span> <\/p>\n Just as with pre-procedure skin care, sunscreen is essential. <\/span>EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Face Sunscreen SPF 50<\/span> ($52) is <\/span>Strauser\u2019s<\/span> pick, and with<\/span> \u201c<\/span>recovery<\/span>\u201d <\/span>in the name, <\/span>it\u2019s<\/span> a strong choice for post-procedure skin.<\/span> \u201c<\/span>It combines mineral UV protection with barrier-repair and redness-neutralizing benefits\u2014ideal for sensitive, healing skin<\/span>,<\/span>\u201d <\/span>says Dr. Luftman.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n 5<\/span> \/ 5<\/span> <\/p>\n Lastly\u2014and only once the skin is ready\u2014<\/span>a red light mask can be introduced<\/span>. Strauser recommends the <\/span>HigherDose Red Light Face Mask<\/span> ($349). \u201cRed light therapy can be a helpful adjunct post-procedure, as it may reduce inflammation and support collagen production when used as directed and once the skin is ready,\u201d says Dr. Luftman.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\nPost-Procedure Skin-Care Product Recommendations<\/h2>\n
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