Thanks to advances in formulation science, Dr. Lain says, “We now have ‘integrated skincare’—the skincare before and after a procedure—which gives us many dierent tools to make the results more uniform across the face and also reduce down-time.” OTC products that reinforce barrier integrity and min-imize inflammation can prepare the skin, support recovery, and enhance overall procedural outcomes. Dr. Lain’s recent study, “Optimizing Periprocedural Outcomes with Accessible Skincare,” examined how an OTC regimen could support recovery after non-energy and non-ablative procedures. In the study, 30 women aged 22–55 used a trio of OTC products: • Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser Fragrance Free (AM and PM use) • Hydro Boost Water Cream (AM and PM use) • Ultra Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen SPF 70 (AM use) When used before and after dermatological procedures in-cluding chemical peels, microneedling, and non-ablative laser therapy, the regimen significantly reduced erythema (21%), burning (86%), and stinging (74%) within 24 hours, and also improved tone and texture by Day 7. Patients overwhelmingly reported less downtime (86%) and enhanced comfort (83%). Here, we review the most common in-oce procedures and how OTC products can support patients across the experience. • Glycerin restores hydration quickly and minimizes dryness and irritation. • Aloe vera provides anti-inflammatory relief to reduce visible reactivity. 2. Microneedling Micro-channels created via microneedling temporarily disrupt barrier integrity and increase TEWL. “Whatever you can do to plug the holes—and minimize the inflammation after the procedure—will help the patient feel more comfortable and allow healing to occur more quickly,” Dr. Lain says. In his study, the regimen rapidly reduced erythema and improved comfort within 24 hours. Patients reported reduced downtime, improved comfort, and a more pleasant recovery. OTC formulations containing peptides, niacinamide, Vitamin C, and hydrating non-comedogenic cleansers support early healing. Here’s why, plus when and how to use them. PRE-PROCEDURE Use gentle cleansers, hydrating moisturizers, and sunscreen. Avoid new or irritating products, such as retinoids, unless the patient is already acclimated to them. IMMEDIATELY AFTER Apply hydrating, barrier-supportive moisturizers twice daily to reduce inflammation and water loss. 1. Chemical Peels By chemically ablating the stratum corneum, chemical peels temporarily weaken the skin barrier and increase TEWL, redness, and reactivity. The findings from Dr. Lain's study suggest that OTC mois-turizers with hyaluronic acid and glycerin can help counter post-peel dehydration and discomfort. Here’s why, plus when and how to use them. RECOVERY Continue gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sunscreen for several days while micro-channels close. Deeper treatments may require up to 21 days of barrier support. RECOMMENDED OTC INGREDIENTS AND PRODUCTS • Peptides signal skin cells to enhance repair, collagen synthe-sis, and barrier reconstruction. • Niacinamide supports lipid synthesis, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the barrier. • Vitamin C neutralizes reactive oxygen species and supports collagen synthesis. • Hydrating cleansers maintain cleanliness without stripping essential lipids. PRE-PROCEDURE Advise patients to use gentle cleansers, hydrating moisturizers, and daily sunscreen to minimize baseline inflammation and strengthen their skin barrier. IMMEDIATELY AFTER Apply a hydrating, barrier-supportive moisturizer to reduce TEWL and soothe inflammation. Water-based gel creams are well-tolerated on sensitized skin. 3. Laser Therapy Both ablative and non-ablative lasers impair the barrier and increase TEWL and photosensitivity. Because barrier function is diminished, skin is more vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) damage, irritation, and reactive oxygen species. Dr. Lain’s study found that the triple regimen—including mineral sunscreen— reduced downtime (100%), helped patients stay consistent with post-laser procedure care (90%), and helped ease comfort caused by laser procedures (80%) for those undergoing non-ablative laser treatment. RECOVERY (72 HOURS–28 DAYS) Superficial peels require only a few days of recovery, while medium-depth peels may take 21–28 days. Continue gentle cleansing, twice-daily moisturizing, and daily sunscreen to prevent dyspigmentation and support healing. RECOMMENDED OTC INGREDIENTS AND PRODUCTS • Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the epidermis and helps reduce tightness during re-epithelialization. December 2025 | S3
The Dermatology Digest Innovations in Pre-, Peri-, and Post- Procedure Skincare December 2025: S-3
