Make-up After Dermal Filler Treatments

Dermal filler treatments have become a go-to solution for quick and effective facial rejuvenation. Who wouldn’t want to pop into the clinic next door during their lunch break and walk back into the office with plump lips or visibly refreshed skin? 

Whether you’re seeking to enhance your lips, smooth fine lines, or restore lost volume, hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, such as REVOLAX, offer instant results with minimal downtime. However, many clients wonder whether you can wear make-up after fillers. 

In this blog, we’ll explain the importance of following correct aftercare, namely the 24-hour rule, and why you should wait before applying make-up and other products after your dermal filler treatment.

The Impact of Make-up Culture Today

Make-up has become an essential part of many people’s daily routines. Surveys have shown that:

• One-third of 3000 women wouldn’t leave the house without make-up.
• 60% of 2200 women stated that they wear make-up at least once a week, 26% twice a week, and 28% every day.

With these numbers in mind, dermal filler practitioners need to advise their clients on the no-make-up rule before conducting treatment. While make-up can boost confidence, and clients may feel pressure to use it to hide bruises or redness from the treatment, it could have adverse effects and disrupt the healing process. 

Can You Wear Make-up After Fillers

Dermal fillers are minimally invasive treatments involving injecting hyaluronic acid-based substances into specific areas of the face. These treatments restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Products like REVOLAX offer impressive results but temporarily disrupt the skin’s protective barrier. Learn more about the process and benefits in our Treatment Guide to Dermal Fillers.

Dermatologists suggest risks associated with post-treatment make-up application are mainly due to the compromised skin barrier. 

Under regular circumstances, the skin blocks bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and fungi from entering the body. However, as dermal fillers and other aesthetic procedures can temporarily compromise the barrier by penetrating the skin and leaving tiny open wounds, applying make-up on top of these wounds can cause various side effects such as:

• Allergic reactions
• Infections from non-sterile products or tools
• Skin irritation due to allergens or harsh ingredients
• Longer healing process as cosmetics may obstruct the skin’s recovery

Post-treatment Care and the 24-hour Rule

The 24-hour rule is a guideline that helps protect the treated areas after dermal filler injections. It’s the minimum time you should wait before applying any products to ensure the skin has sufficient time to heal and rebuild its natural barrier.

As every client is different, practitioners should always conduct pre- and post-treatment consultations to offer tailored advice and information. 

You can follow these general post-treatment aftercare tips to optimise results and minimise the risk of any complications. 

• Keep the skin clean: Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to maintain hygiene.
• Avoid touching the face: This reduces the likelihood of introducing bacteria to the injection sites.
• Skip heavy skincare: Avoid products containing active ingredients or acids like retinol or AHAs for 24 hours.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking water supports the hydrating effects of fillers.
• Avoid strenuous activities: Refrain from intense exercise, saunas, or hot showers for at least 24 hours.

Read our REVOLAX Aftercare Guide for more information.

What Make-up Can You Use After Fillers?

If not wearing make-up post-treatment is unavoidable, post-treatment make-up is available on the market. Consider the following options:

• Mineral-based products: They can be a safer alternative when applied with clean brushes or sponges. Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic (doesn’t clog pores) make-up to reduce irritation risks.
• Sterile applicators: Use disposable sponges and brushes or easy-to-clean ones made from silicone or metal to avoid introducing bacteria to the skin.
• Gentle skincare: Pair your make-up with soothing and hydrating skincare products, such as aloe vera, hyaluronic acid serums, and ceramides.

Both practitioner and client must have an open conversation about the possible risks associated with using make-up after the treatment. If make-up is an absolute must, the right products and applicators will make a difference in your appearance and skin health!

Shop Dermal Fillers and More at Fox Pharma

Here at Fox Pharma, we’re at the cutting edge of the aesthetics world, and we’re proud to supply professionals across the UK and beyond with market-leading aesthetics products. Register with us to access our REVOLAX dermal fillers and other Fox exclusives, such as Seventy Hyal 2000 skin boosters and VITARAN polynucleotides.

To keep up with the latest industry trends and insights from leading practitioners, read more on our blog.