Before any skin treatment, ask your practitioner what to expect afterwards, what to put on your skin, what to avoid and who to contact if you are worried. Clear answers make the days after treatment far easier.
Before your treatment
- What will my skin look and feel like afterwards, and for how long?
- Do I need to stop any products before the treatment?
- Is there anything about my skin or health you need to know?
- How much time should I plan before social events or travel?
At the end of your treatment
- What have you applied to my skin, and why?
- When can I wash my face, and how?
- When can I wear make-up again?
- Can I exercise, and when?
About your home routine
- Which products should I use, and in what order?
- Which products should I pause, and for how long?
- Which sunscreen do you recommend?
- Is there a product I should continue at home?
If something does not feel right
- What is normal, and what is not?
- Who should I contact, and how?
- Will you check in with me after the treatment?
Questions about the products used
It is always reasonable to ask what is in a product and why your practitioner has chosen it. If a clinic uses a secretome or exosome product, you might ask where its active ingredient comes from and whether the product has had a safety assessment. You can read more in our guide to secretome skincare.
A simple checklist
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| What should I expect? | Helps you plan and spot anything unusual |
| What should I use? | Keeps your routine gentle and effective |
| What should I avoid? | Reduces the chance of irritation |
| Who do I call? | Gets you help quickly if you need it |
Always follow the aftercare advice your practitioner gives you. If you are unsure about anything, contact your clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get written aftercare instructions?
Yes. Written instructions help you remember what to do and when.
Is it fine to ask what products are used?
Yes. A good practitioner will be happy to explain what they use and why.
What if my skin gets worse after treatment?
Contact your practitioner straight away.
Should I stop any products before treatment?
Often, yes. Retinoids and exfoliating acids are commonly paused. Ask your practitioner well before your appointment.
How soon can I go back to my normal routine?
It depends on the treatment. Your practitioner will tell you which products to restart and when.
Do I need sunscreen after every treatment?
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended after most skin treatments, and it is a good habit year round.
Can I book social events after treatment?
Ask how long redness or flaking usually lasts for your treatment, and plan with some time to spare.
What should I ask about secretome or exosome products?
Ask what the active ingredient is, where it comes from, whether it is cell-free and whether the product has had a UK safety assessment.
Having a treatment? Ask your clinic about Sekretome aftercare.
