A Guide to Peri-Procedural Skin Care Regimen for Injectable and Non-Energy Cosmetic Procedures Based on a Consensus of Six Aesthetic Practitioners

Background The use of injectable aesthetic treatments (including fillers, neurotoxins, polynucleotides, and biostimulators) and non-energy surface active aesthetic treatments (such as chemical peels, microneedling, and microdermabrasion) is increasing. To date, little guidance is available in the literature concerning peri-procedural skincare for these aesthetic procedures. Objectives To provide peri-procedural skincare recommendations and an algorithm to guide holistic skincare that will enhance and retain procedural effects and optimize skin health in the longer term. Methods A panel of 6 Australian aesthetic practitioners (5 dermatologists and 1 plastic surgeon) developed generalized peri-procedural skincare recommendations for injectable and surface active aesthetic treatments. Recommendations were stratified into two categories: skin barrier non-disruptive procedure (fillers, threads, neuromodulators, and polynucleotides) and skin barrier disruptive procedures (non-energy surface active procedures). Results Establishing a good pre-procedural basic skincare routine (cleanser, moisturizer, broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen) 2-4 weeks before a procedure is recommended. Actives including vitamin A, vitamin B3, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and lipids may also be advised, tailored to an individual’s skin condition. It is suggested that toners and exfoliants are avoided, whereas antioxidants, tranexamic acid, and growth factors can be used immediately following needling procedures. Hyaluronic acid and antioxidants may be used immediately following chemical peels along with bland skincare. Post-procedural makeup and skincare actives should be avoided immediately post surface active procedures, Conclusions The implementation of peri-procedural skincare regimens may improve treatment-related outcomes and reduce recovery time. Furthermore, frequency and severity of potential side effects may be reduced.