OTC mineral sunscreens, antioxidant-rich moisturizers, and gentle cleansers can help protect compromised skin and sup-port healing. Here’s why, plus when and how to use them. IMMEDIATELY AFTER Apply a non-irritating hydrating moisturizer. “Certain HA moisturizers have been shown to enhance the ecacy of Bo-tox and fillers,” Dr. Lain notes. Avoid exfoliants, alcohol-based toners, or harsh products for 24–48 hours; use daily sunscreen. PRE-PROCEDURE Use gentle cleansers, hydrating moisturizers, and sunscreen. Patients with richly pigmented skin may require pre-treat-ment brighteners to reduce risk of post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation (PIH). RECOMMENDED OTC INGREDIENTS AND PRODUCTS • Hyaluronic-acid-based moisturizers replenish hydration lost through micro-injuries and may enhance injectable longevity. • Gentle, non-irritating cleansers preserve lipid balance and prevent unnecessary irritation. IMMEDIATELY AFTER Apply barrier-supportive moisturizers twice daily to reduce TEWL and soothe inflammation. Some actives may penetrate more eciently, making product selection important. 5. Microdermabrasion “By abrading o the outer layer of cells called the stratum corneum with microdermabrasion, you’re exposing the layer behind it, which is more vulnerable,” Doris Day, MD, a Derma-tologist with Day Dermatology & Aesthetics in New York, NY, explains. Removing this protective layer increases TEWL and sun sensitivity, especially in fair skin. Recovery typically takes one to four weeks, depending on depth, baseline skincare, and actives used. OTC panthenol-con-taining moisturizers and fragrance-free formulations help calm irritation and support barrier repair. Here’s why, plus when and how to use them. RECOVERY Introduce mineral sunscreen as soon as the skin tolerates it. “When you have an impaired barrier, the skin’s ability to pro-tect itself from UV radiation diminishes,” Dr. Lain says, making strict UV protection essential. RECOMMENDED OTC INGREDIENTS AND PRODUCTS • Mineral sunscreens (SPF 30+) reflect UV radiation and re-duce risk of irritation and contact dermatitis. • Antioxidant-rich moisturizers neutralize reactive oxygen spe-cies and reduce inflammation to optimize wound healing. • Gentle cleansers prevent further lipid loss and preserve barrier integrity. PRE-PROCEDURE Stop prescription retinoids three to five days prior; continue OTC retinol only if well-tolerated. Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and barrier-supportive ingredients. 4. Botox and Dermal Fillers Neuromodulators and fillers create minor barrier disruption, but micro-injuries can still trigger temporary inflammation or moisture loss. “Although the insults to the skin barrier are minimal with Botox and fillers, it's always a good idea to protect the skin when any insult to the barrier happens,” Dr. Lain says. He adds that, “Some integrated skincare products help to augment and/or prolong the eects” of injectables. OTC hyaluronic-acid-based moisturizers and gentle cleansers support hydration and recovery. Here’s why, plus when and how to use them. IMMEDIATELY AFTER Apply a bland hydrating emollient to replenish moisture and support early barrier recovery. Sun protection is essential for at least four weeks. RECOVERY PHASE Reintroduce antioxidants after Day 3, if tolerated. Continue avoiding fragrance and irritants. “Skin integrity is essential— that’s why barrier support products are even more important post-procedure,” Dr. Day says. RECOMMENDED OTC INGREDIENTS AND PRODUCTS • Panthenol (Provitamin B5) reduces inflammation, supports hydration, and strengthens the recovering barrier. • Fragrance-free formulations reduce risk of irritation when skin is most vulnerable. Dd . PRE-PROCEDURE Use gentle cleansers and hydrating moisturizers; avoid new irritants or strong actives to maintain barrier stability. S4 | Supplement
The Dermatology Digest Innovations in Pre-, Peri-, and Post- Procedure Skincare December 2025: S-4
