Publicado por Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón: 20/01/2022
How should you apply eye make-up after a blepharoplasty?
Blog of Aesthetic News, Tips and Care
Blepharoplasty in Madrid is a technique that is performed with ever greater effectiveness and safety in its results. Every week, patients come to our clinic wanting to recover the youth and brightness of their eyes.
On leaving the clinic, something similar always tends to happen: enthusiasm about how natural the results look and satisfaction with the recovery process, since it is quite straightforward and practically painless.
However, for all of this to go well, we need to follow the advice our doctor recommends. Looking after our skin is what makes the difference in seeing results quickly and in the incisions made during surgery healing properly.
One of the most frequent questions our patients have is how to apply eye make-up after a blepharoplasty. It is normal that, because of the scars left during the first weeks, we want to cover them with a little make-up.
It is also natural that we want to combine our newly rejuvenated, brighter eyes with attractive make-up that brings them out even more. But despite our excitement, we have to be careful about when we start wearing make-up, since this can be key to recovery.
How long should we wait to wear make-up after a blepharoplasty?
As we know, blepharoplasty is a surgical technique that removes the excess skin from our eyelids and corrects puffy bags and sagging. Recovery is very straightforward and quick, but one key factor comes into play, which is the healing process.
The sutures applied after surgery are removed within 3 to 5 days. At this point we may want to apply a little make-up to disguise the scars that have been left. However, we still need to wait a while, since make-up could irritate the area.
Not only that, but the stitches could reopen. This would make the scar more visible in future and even cause uncomfortable infections that put our health at risk.
It is for this reason that during recovery the best thing is to wait at least two weeks if we want to use any make-up on our skin. If we want to apply mascara to our lashes, it may be sensible to wait a few days longer.
Of course these recommendations are for guidance and are in no way tailored to every patient. We must look at the state of our scar and the condition of the skin to make the best decision.
Why do we have to wait so long to wear make-up?
While it is true that with make-up we can improve or correct certain imperfections in our face and, in the case of a blepharoplasty, disguise the scars after surgery, the fact is that using it can have very negative consequences for our skin.
These are the main reasons why it is advisable to wait a sensible amount of time before wearing make-up again after a blepharoplasty:
- Bacteria: these tiny microorganisms multiply wherever the skin tissue is most sensitive, above all in areas that are in the process of healing. It is essential to protect yourself from this to avoid infection.
- When we remove make-up from our skin, we can apply too much force and seriously damage it, so it is better not to run that risk either.
We can also suffer severe irritation and redness, since the skin is more sensitive. It is better to spare ourselves this discomfort as well as the risks we have already mentioned.
After facial surgery such as a blepharoplasty or a rhinoplasty, you have to wait a while before wearing make-up.
How should I apply make-up after a blepharoplasty?
If we have already waited the recommended 2-3 weeks, it will be safe to wear make-up again. However, this does not mean we can use any product lightly. It is important to know how to apply eye make-up after a blepharoplasty, and for that using the right products will be key to avoiding complications.
The best advice is to use water-based cosmetics, since this way we can avoid blocking the pores. Likewise, there are products recommended for sensitive skin that will prevent irritation.
Of course, to avoid bacteria multiplying, a great tip is to throw away all those old cosmetics we have in the cupboard and buy new products after having a blepharoplasty.
As for aftercare, an essential part of the process is precisely what we do when removing our make-up. This part can be delicate if we tend to be too rough in our movements.
It is precisely for that reason that we also recommend water-based products, since they tend to be far easier to remove than oil-based products, as well as leaving less residue.
If after following all this advice on how to apply eye make-up after a blepharoplasty we still have questions, the best thing is to go to the clinic where we had our blepharoplasty, since there we will get professional attention and expert advice.
Cleansing routine before and after make-up
Cleansing the skin of the face after a blepharoplasty, especially around the eyes and on the eyelids, must be done very gently. To avoid rubbing or applying too much pressure it is recommended to use a good quality make-up remover, which makes removing make-up more effective and leaves the face free of impurities.
It is also preferable to avoid using waterproof make-up, since it is harder to remove.
Preparing the skin and using moisturisers
Before applying make-up it is essential to have clean skin, free of impurities and grease. Follow a gentle hygiene routine in the eye area. Products for sensitive skin are ideal for looking after the skin around the eyes.
Good cleansing and proper moisturising of the skin around the eyes contributes to a better recovery after a blepharoplasty; choose products containing hyaluronic acid, vitamins C and E, antioxidants and peptides.
Remember to use broad-spectrum sun protection too, to avoid making the scars more noticeable. You can apply a thin layer of gentle foundation, made especially for this area, which will help you avoid irritation.
Blending techniques for minimising marks
To minimise the appearance of bruising from eyelid surgery, you should use a yellow concealer. For reddened areas a green concealer is recommended; and if you have areas of discoloured skin, a purple concealer will help your face look more even.
Another tip we can offer is not to use black or brown eyeliner while your eyelids are still red, because these tend to accentuate the reddish marks. It is preferable to use a blue eyeliner along the lash line, both lower and upper.
Applying eyeshadow and eyeliner safely
It is recommended to apply the minimum amount of products such as foundation, eyeshadow and eyeliner. Also remember to take care when applying them, since you must not stretch the eyelid or press too hard, to avoid causing damage.
It is important to be patient in this process, both when applying and removing make-up. Take as much time as you need to do it very carefully.
Ways to avoid irritation when wearing make-up after a blepharoplasty
- Replace old products, such as eyeliner and mascara, with new ones, since these tend to build up bacteria.
- Avoid using low-quality cosmetics, since they tend to have ingredients that can cause irritation. Choose natural, mineral-based or non-comedogenic products.
- Do not use alcohol-based products, which can be irritating.
- Avoid using products with glitter or shimmer that could get into the eye or the scars and cause irritation or inflammation.
- Make sure you use clean brushes and sponges.
- Do not use low-quality cotton pads, because they tend to leave behind fibres, which can get into the eye or the incision areas and cause infection or irritation.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before starting to apply make-up, to avoid contact with bacteria or irritants.
At Sculpture Clinic we specialise in facial surgery procedures. Our team of professionals will guide you through the whole recovery process and will give you the best advice for your recovery, so that you achieve the result you want.
The Sculpture Clinic Team
Together we are stronger
Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón
Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon
Dr. Irene Otero
Anaesthetist
Dr. Juan Godoy
Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon
Dr. Estefanía Alonso
Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon
