If you’ve recently had laser skin resurfacing, you may be eager to get back to your normal skincare and makeup routine—but applying makeup too soon can interfere with healing and increase your risk of infection. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Angela Sturm advises her Houston patients to avoid wearing makeup for at least 10 days after a full CO₂ laser resurfacing treatment. Here’s why that waiting period matters, how to protect your new skin, and when it’s safe to start wearing makeup again.
Why You Should Avoid Makeup After Laser Skin Resurfacing
During the first 10–14 days after a laser treatment—especially with ablative lasers—the outer layer of skin is regenerating. This new skin is delicate, highly sensitive, and not yet ready to handle cosmetic products. Even clean, high-quality makeup can harbor bacteria that may lead to infection, irritation, or delayed healing.
Instead, your focus during this period should be on moisture, protection, and patience. Dr. Sturm provides detailed post-care instructions for every patient, including which ointment or occlusive barrier to apply, how often to use it, and how to gently cleanse your skin. Following these directions carefully ensures your skin heals evenly and without complications.
When It’s Safe to Wear Makeup Again
Once your skin has completed the healing phase, you can slowly reintroduce makeup. Choose hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and mineral-based formulas to minimize irritation. Always use clean brushes or sponges, and remove makeup thoroughly each night with a mild, non-stripping cleanser.
If you notice redness, burning, or new breakouts after applying makeup, take a break for several more days and continue using your post-laser skincare regimen. Healing skin can remain sensitive for several weeks, even after it appears fully recovered.
The Role of Physician Guidance
Because every skin type and laser setting is unique, it’s best to follow your surgeon’s personalized recommendations. At your post-treatment visit, Dr. Sturm evaluates how your skin is responding, adjusts your aftercare if needed, and advises exactly when you can safely start wearing makeup again.
Her philosophy is always to balance beauty with skin health—ensuring your results are long-lasting, smooth, and evenly toned. Rushing the recovery process, even by a few days, can compromise your final outcome.
The Bottom Line
After laser skin resurfacing, makeup should wait until your new skin has healed—about 10 days for full CO₂ resurfacing and several days for non-ablative treatments. With proper aftercare, your skin will emerge smoother, brighter, and more even in tone—making makeup optional, not essential.
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About Dr. Angela Sturm
Dr. Angela Sturm is a double-board certified facial plastic surgeon with certifications with the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery. Dr. Sturm’s meticulous nature makes for exceptional results and satisfied patients. Dr. Sturm was named Texas Monthly’s Super Doctors Rising Star in 2016-2017, Texas Monthly’s Super Doctor in 2018-2019, H Texas Magazine’s Top Doc in 2013-2018, Top Doc by Houstonia Magazine in 2016-2018, Houston Business Journal’s People on the Move and 40 under 40, Blazing Star Award by Texas Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Top Women in Business, one of the Top 30 Influential Women of Houston, Best Female Cosmetic Surgeon in Out Smart, and given the Patient’s Choice Award, On Time Doctor Award and Compassionate Doctor Award by Vitals.com.
