Ingredients to look for
- · Ceramides — rebuild the skin barrier.
- · Hyaluronic acid — hydrates without irritation.
- · Glycerin — humectant, safe on freshly treated skin.
- · Panthenol (Vitamin B5) — soothing and reparative.
- · Niacinamide — barrier support at low concentrations.
- · Colloidal oatmeal — calming.
- · Squalane — light, non-comedogenic hydrator.
The one rule
Fragrance-free. "Unscented" is not the same as fragrance-free — check the label.
Ingredients to avoid
- · Fragrance (any listing that says "parfum" or "fragrance").
- · Essential oils.
- · Retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene).
- · Alpha and beta hydroxy acids (glycolic, lactic, salicylic).
- · High-strength vitamin C.
- · Brightening or bleaching actives (hydroquinone, high-strength kojic).
- · Menthol, camphor, alcohol-heavy formulas.
When to resume active ingredients
Reintroduce actives on the treated area two weeks after your session, and introduce them one at a time so you can tell what your skin is responding to. Between sessions, keep the routine mostly gentle — full-strength retinoids and acids are best paused within a few days of your next appointment.
Related: Sunscreen, Exfoliation.
Key takeaways
- · Fragrance-free is non-negotiable in the first two weeks.
- · Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin support barrier recovery.
- · No retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C on treated skin for 14 days.
- · Apply twice daily to freshly cleansed skin.