After a plasma pen treatment, you should not get the treated area wet for at least 48 hours, nor should you apply any cosmetic or cosmeceutical products other than the healing product supplied by your practitioner.
Plasma pen treatment, also known as fibroblast therapy, creates tiny micro-injuries on the skin's surface to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. Proper aftercare is crucial for optimal healing and to prevent complications. Adhering to specific prohibitions is key to a successful recovery.
Immediate Prohibitions After Plasma Pen Treatment
The first 48 hours post-treatment are critical for the initial healing phase. Strict adherence to these guidelines is essential:
- Avoid Water Contact: Do not get the treated area wet for a minimum of 48 hours. This includes showering, washing your face, sweating excessively, or swimming. Getting the area wet too soon can interfere with the formation of the protective crusts and increase the risk of infection.
- No Unapproved Products: Refrain from applying any cosmetic products, makeup, or other cosmeceuticals to the treated area. The only exception is the specific healing product provided or recommended by your plasma pen specialist, which is formulated to support the healing process without irritation.
Activities and Products to Avoid During Healing
Beyond the initial 48 hours, several other activities and products should be avoided to ensure proper healing and prevent potential complications.
Activities to Steer Clear Of
- Picking or Rubbing Scabs/Crusts: As the treated area heals, tiny carbon crusts (scabs) will form. It is paramount not to pick, scratch, or rub these off. Allow them to fall off naturally, which typically takes 5-10 days. Premature removal can lead to scarring, hyperpigmentation, or infection.
- Excessive Sun Exposure: Direct sun exposure to the treated area must be avoided for at least 8-12 weeks, and ideally longer. UV radiation can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) and interfere with the healing process. If sun exposure is unavoidable, protect the area with a wide-brimmed hat and use a high-SPF mineral sunscreen once the crusts have fallen off and the skin has started to regenerate.
- Strenuous Exercise and Sweating: Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating for at least 5-7 days or until all crusts have fallen off. Sweat can irritate the treated skin and potentially introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
- Hot Baths, Saunas, and Steam Rooms: High heat and humidity can also irritate the treated area and delay healing. Avoid these for at least 1-2 weeks or until the skin has fully healed.
- Shaving the Treated Area: Do not shave over the treated skin until it has completely healed and all crusts have fallen off.
Products and Treatments to Exclude
- Harsh Skincare Products: Avoid any products containing active ingredients such as retinoids (retinol, tretinoin), alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), vitamin C, or exfoliating agents for several weeks post-treatment. These can be too harsh on healing skin.
- Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion, or Other Invasive Treatments: Do not undergo other aesthetic treatments on the treated area for at least 8-12 weeks, or until your practitioner advises it is safe.
- Makeup (initially): While immediate makeup application is prohibited, even after the initial 48 hours, it's best to avoid makeup until the carbon crusts have fallen off naturally. When you do resume using makeup, ensure your brushes are clean and opt for mineral-based products that are less likely to irritate.
By diligently following these "don'ts," you significantly enhance the safety and effectiveness of your plasma pen treatment, promoting proper healing and achieving the best possible aesthetic outcomes.
