After you’ve gone through the lengthy process of getting the surgery of your dreams, whether that be a facelift or otoplasty, you feel ready to get out there and show the world your new look. However, your final look may not be visible for months after the procedure, and there is essential downtime required to allow your face to heal and reach the final result.
So, how can you get back out into the world without making the bruises and stitching so obvious? Assuming you’ve opted for a professional surgeon, your sutures should be nearly non-visible; however, bruising and swelling with be prominent for the weeks following. The answer to temporarily resolve its prominence? Makeup. Now, the most crucial part of covering signs of surgery is not to use it too soon. In fact, most surgeons will suggest a minimum of 1 week’s time without any makeup for an uninterrupted healing period. In this blog, we will share how you can safely cover your signs of surgery, while also doing it well, and making any signs of surgery unnoticeable. Take a look at the following:
Wait at least a week, and confirm with your surgeon
Before you even think about applying makeup, it’s essential to give your skin the time it needs to recover without interference. For most procedures, a week is the minimum recommendation, but everyone heals differently, so checking in with your surgeon is the safest step. By confirming with your surgeon first, you avoid the risk of trapping bacteria, aggravating swelling, or even slowing down your overall healing. Patience here is key, because getting clearance from your surgeon ensures your skin is in the right condition to handle products without complications.
Use non-fragranced products
Post-surgery skin is much more fragile and vulnerable to harsher chemicals, so less is more when it comes to the ingredients in your makeup. Your skin will already be sensitive from the healing process, so avoiding fragrance is crucial to prevent irritation or reactions. Brands like Refy Beauty offer a plethora of products, specifically designed for sensitive skin. Non-fragranced products are far gentler on compromised skin, allowing you to conceal bruises without causing redness or itching. Think of it as creating a calm environment for your skin, where the focus is on protection and coverage rather than additional stress.
Spot correct first, then shade match the rest
All professional makeup artists will offer the same advice for everyday makeup usage, and the same goes for post-surgical makeup. Target the more notable areas on the face first with a thicker concealer, and then create a coherent lighter coverage across the rest of the facer. By doing this in stages, you reduce the need for heavy layers, which not only looks more seamless but is also healthier for healing skin. It allows your makeup to enhance rather than mask, creating a balanced and natural finish.
Use clean makeup brushes
Avoiding harmful bacteria on your face during recovery is non-negotiable. Unsurprisingly, those makeup brushes you have been using for years will likely harbour some nasty germs.. While your face is most fragile, be sure to use freshly cleaned tools and wash them thoroughly after each use to avoid contamination. By doing so, you keep your skin protected while ensuring that the application looks smooth and polished. This step may take a little extra time, but it safeguards your recovery while still giving you flawless coverage.
Keep it light, not cakey
Heavy makeup can suffocate your skin, draw attention to swelling, and even emphasise texture around healing areas. The goal here is to apply the minimum amount necessary to achieve a natural look. Lightweight formulas that blend easily will give you coverage without appearing overdone, helping your skin breathe while still offering confidence. Remember, this is about enhancing your appearance as you heal, not hiding behind layers of product.
Most importantly, be gentle yet thorough when taking it off
Removing your makeup gently is just as important as putting it on safely. Your skin will still be delicate, so scrubbing or harsh cleansers can cause unnecessary irritation. Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free remover, and take your time dissolving the product without tugging at the skin. Being thorough ensures that no residue lingers overnight, which could otherwise clog pores or disrupt healing. With the right approach, your skin remains clean, calm, and ready to continue its recovery journey.
Natalie Wilson is a freelance health and wellness writer. She loves researching and writing about new health trends and topics, as well as keeping up to date with the latest health news. When not writing, you can find her taking long walks in the countryside with her dog or browsing her nearest bookstore.
