How long after receiving a hyaluronic acid injection (water light needle) can I apply makeup?

Jan 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Lu
Introduction
In general, it is recommended to wait 1 to 3 days before applying makeup after receiving a hyaluronic acid injection (commonly known as a "water light needle"). The principle behind the water light needle involves using micro-needle injection technology to deliver hyaluronic acid and other effective ingredients directly into the dermis layer of the skin, aiming to achieve cosmetic benefits such as hydration, skin rejuvenation, improvement of skin texture, and anti-aging. The typical reference price for a water light needle treatment ranges from 600 to 1200 yuan per session, with noticeable improvements generally seen within 5 to 7 days.

Generally, it is recommended to wait 1-3 days before applying makeup after receiving a hyaluronic acid injection (commonly known as a "water light needle"). The principle behind the water light needle involves using microneedle injection technology to deliver active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid directly into the dermis layer of the skin, aiming to achieve cosmetic benefits such as hydration, improved skin texture, and anti-aging effects. The typical reference price for a water light needle treatment is 600-1200 yuan per session, with visible improvements generally noticeable after 5-7 days. However, this procedure should be performed at a reputable hospital. Detailed explanation is as follows:

If an individual has strong skin recovery ability and strictly follows the doctor's post-treatment care instructions—such as keeping the skin clean, avoiding sun exposure, and avoiding contact with water—then the skin may recover relatively quickly. In such cases, simple makeup application may be considered approximately one day after the injection, once the micro-wounds on the skin surface have largely closed and symptoms such as redness and bruising have significantly subsided.

If an individual has weaker skin recovery ability or improper post-injection care—such as failing to maintain skin cleanliness, getting the skin wet too soon, or exposing it to sun or other irritants—the skin recovery period may be prolonged. In this case, it is recommended to wait approximately three days after the injection, until the surface wounds have completely closed and all symptoms such as redness and bruising have fully subsided, before applying makeup. This will ensure adequate skin recovery and reduce the risk of irritation or infection from cosmetics.

During the recovery period, it is recommended to follow the doctor's advice regarding skincare and sun protection to promote skin healing and enhance the cosmetic results.