Knowing when and how to apply makeup after surgery is crucial for healing and appearance during recovery. Here's your comprehensive guide.

General Timeline

No Makeup Period

  • Varies by procedure
  • Typically 1-4 weeks minimum
  • Follow surgeon's specific instructions
  • Incision areas need longer

Procedure-Specific Guidelines

Eyelid Surgery

  • No eye makeup: 2-4 weeks
  • No mascara until healed
  • Gentle products first
  • Avoid waterproof formulas initially

Rhinoplasty

  • No makeup on nose: 2-4 weeks
  • Face makeup okay after 1 week
  • Avoid pressure on nose
  • No glasses (use tape if needed)

Facial Contouring

  • No makeup: 2-3 weeks
  • Incisions inside mouth - face makeup earlier
  • Gentle application when starting

Laser/Injectable Treatments

  • Same day or next day usually okay
  • Mineral makeup preferred
  • Avoid injection sites

First Makeup Application

Product Selection

  • Mineral-based foundations
  • Fragrance-free products
  • Non-comedogenic formulas
  • New, clean brushes/sponges

Application Tips

  • Gentle patting, no rubbing
  • Avoid incision areas
  • Use clean hands or tools
  • Light coverage initially

Concealing During Recovery

Color Correction

  • Green concealer for redness
  • Yellow for purple bruising
  • Peach for blue/dark areas

Bruise Covering

  • Wait until skin is intact
  • Layer color corrector + concealer
  • Set with powder

Products to Avoid

  • Retinol-containing makeup
  • Exfoliating ingredients
  • Heavy, occlusive products
  • Waterproof formulas (harder to remove)