10/27/2025
🧠 Why Dry Skin Occurs After Plastic Surgery
1. Swelling and inflammation: These temporarily impair your skin’s ability to retain moisture.
2. Reduced oil production: Healing skin may produce less sebum, leading to dryness and flakiness.
3. Cleansing and topical antibiotics: Post-op cleansers and antiseptics can strip natural oils.
4. Limited skincare routine: You’re often told to avoid lotions or certain products early on to protect incisions.
5. Environmental factors: Hospitals and recovery rooms tend to be dry (air conditioning, heating, etc.).
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💧 Safe Skin Care Tips During Recovery
(Always confirm with your surgeon before applying anything near incision sites.)
1. Moisturize gently
• Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer such as:
• CeraVe Healing Ointment
• Aquaphor
• Vaseline (petrolatum-based)
• Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
• Avoid active ingredients like retinoids, acids, or alcohol-based toners until cleared by your surgeon.
2. Stay hydrated
• Drink plenty of water; hydration supports wound healing and elasticity.
3. Humidify your space
• Use a humidifier to maintain skin moisture, especially if you’re sleeping in a dry room.
4. Protect from sun exposure
• Once incisions are healed, use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily to prevent hyperpigmentation and further dryness.
5. Don’t exfoliate too soon
• Avoid scrubs, peels, or exfoliating brushes until your surgeon says it’s safe—these can damage healing tissue.
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⏱️ When to Expect Improvement
• Most dryness resolves within 2–6 weeks post-op, depending on the procedure.
• If dryness persists beyond that or your skin becomes red, itchy, or scaly, it might be contact dermatitis or irritation from surgical dressings or ointments — your surgeon or dermatologist can adjust your care plan.
*This patient also had an allergic reaction to Arnica