Healthy Beauty

Tools & Resources

Select An Article

Covering Bruises After Cosmetic Surgery

Font Size

Your cosmetic surgery is over. You've been healing for a week or so and by now, you might even have your stitches out. Now it's time to get back to normal.

But what about your appearance? Although the cosmetic surgery or procedure will improve your look in the long term, you still have to get past the initial trauma to your body -- things like incision scars, bruising, discoloration, or swelling.

It takes time, but that doesn't mean you have to hide in your house while it all goes away. It could take months, after all, for your appearance to reflect your cosmetic surgery's purpose.

The Three C's

Camouflage makeup can serve many purposes, depending on your personal situation.

Contour to hide the swelling
Concealing bruises and lines from incisions
Color correction to tone down skin that appears red (such as after a chemical peel) or yellow (from that bruise that's healing)

Tips for Using Makeup to Conceal Bruises and Scars

Take inventory at home. You may have makeup at home already that can be part of your camouflaging routine, such as liquid foundation or loose powder.
Timing is everything. Don't start too soon after surgery because camouflage cosmetics can cause problems if applied too soon. Your doctor can instruct you on what type of cosmetics to use and when you can start applying them. For instance, if you have incisions, you will have to wait until your stitches are removed and the wound heals before you can start using this makeup.
Watch the ingredients. There are special cosmetics that are thicker than everyday makeup, which can be used under your regular foundation if foundation is part of your basic beauty routine. If you are choosing the makeup yourself, make sure it is fragrance free and hypoallergenic.
Cleanse carefully. Every night, be sure to properly cleanse your face, removing all traces of any makeup. Certain camouflage cosmetics may require different types of cleansers for proper removal. Make sure you understand exactly what will be required to remove it all. Proper makeup removal should be part of your basic routine everyday anyway, but it's especially important if you're using heavier camouflage makeup.