墨白 It is widely known that one’s face should not come into contact with water after receiving Potenza treatment, but exactly how long one needs to wait remains a question that many people are unsure about. Some say it’s 48 hours, while others claim it’s 3 days. Which version is correct? This article clarifies the appropriate timing for washing the face and the complete care routine after Potenza treatment, helping you avoid any unnecessary delays in your recovery process.
Why can’t you wash your face immediately after the Potenza treatment?
Potenza is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that combines RF energy. Gold-plated microneedles are inserted into the dermis to release RF heat, which stimulates the regeneration of Collagen and helps improve Pores, fine lines, acne scars, and skin laxity.
After the procedure, the skin surface will have numerous tiny punctures, and the skin’s barrier function is temporarily compromised. During this period, if substances such as tap water, facial cleansers, or cosmetics come into contact with these wounds, on one hand, bacteria may be introduced, leading to infection; on the other hand, irritating ingredients may exacerbate the inflammatory response, thus prolonging the recovery time.
How soon after receiving Potenza can one wash their face?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question; it depends on the level of treatment intensity and the individual’s skin condition.
Regular energy (mild treatment)
Within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure, avoid direct contact of untreated water with your face. If the redness has subsided and there are no visible wounds or scabs after 48 hours, you can gently clean your face with plain water, but avoid rubbing it vigorously. Do not use a facial scrubber or exfoliating products.
Medium to high intensity (deep treatment)
If you have undergone deep or high-intensity treatments, it is recommended to wait for at least 72 hours (3 days) before washing your face. During this period, you can gently wipe your face with a gauze soaked in sterile saline solution as an alternative to regular face washing.
The correct way to wash your face for the first time
- Use warm water that is close to body temperature; avoid using cold or hot water.
- The technique is gentle, using pressure rather than rubbing.
- Choose a facial cleanser with a mild, soap-free formula – amino acid-based cleansers are particularly suitable.
- Do not rub it dry vigorously with a towel; instead, use clean paper towels to gently press and absorb the excess moisture.
- Immediately apply moisturizer after washing your face, using a medical beauty repair mask or a hydrating essence.
Recovery schedule 7 days after Potenza treatment
Immediately after the procedure ∼ within 24 hours
Immediately after the procedure, you may experience heat in the face, mild redness, and a sense of swelling; the burning sensation usually subsides within 3 to 5 hours. During this period:
- Use the clinic’s repair patches or cold compresses to reduce the sensation of heat.
- It can be applied with growth factors or the restorative serums prescribed by the clinic.
- Under no circumstances should you wear makeup or use regular skincare products.
- Keep your face dry, and gently pat it with a clean tissue whenever you sweat.
On the 2nd to 3rd day
Most of the redness and swelling have significantly subsided, but some individuals may experience mild peeling or small scabs.
- Continue using medical-grade masks for repair; apply 1 to 2 sheets per day.
- Do not try to forcibly remove the scab; let it fall off on its own.
- For outdoor activities, it’s essential to take physical measures to protect yourself from the sun—wear a hat and use an umbrella.
- Functional skincare products (whitening, acids, exfoliants) should be put on hold for now.
Days 4 to 7
My appearance has largely returned to normal, and I can now wash my face as usual. However, when it comes to skincare routines, I still need to be cautious.
- Physical sun protection with an SPF of at least 30 is essential.
- You can use basic hydrating products and serums, but avoid ingredients like retinol, fruit acids, and salicylic acid.
- Do not squeeze minor pimples or closed comedones; they are part of the body’s detoxification process and will usually disappear on their own within 1 to 2 weeks.
Weeks 2 to 4
The skin barrier has largely recovered, and you can gradually resume your regular skincare routine. It is recommended to continue avoiding products containing high concentrations of active ingredients for the first 15 days. It is only after one month that you will begin to see the most noticeable effects of the Potenza treatment – the production of Collagen takes some time, and there is no need to rush.
Several common mistakes that are easily made after the procedure
- Applying makeup too early: It is absolutely forbidden to retouch makeup on the second day after the procedure. Powdered pigments can easily clog the unsealed needle holes, leading to pigmentation or infection.
- Washing your face with hot water can cause the capillaries to dilate, which may exacerbate redness and hinder the repair of the skin’s barrier.
- Start exercising immediately: Sweating can cause sweat to enter the incision sites, increasing the risk of infection. Avoid strenuous exercise for 3 to 5 days after the procedure.
- Ignoring sun protection: After the procedure, the skin becomes particularly sensitive to ultraviolet rays, and without proper protection, pigmentation is likely to occur.
- Removing scabs on your own: Trying to remove unshed scabs can lead to scarring; it’s better to let them shed naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for the face to become itchy after Potenza treatment?
It is a normal part of the recovery process to experience mild itching within 24 to 72 hours after the procedure; try to resist the urge to scratch. However, if the itching becomes severe or is accompanied by noticeable redness, it is best to consult the doctor who performed the treatment to determine whether any anti-allergic measures are necessary.
Can I apply a facial mask after receiving Potenza treatment?
Sure, but only medical repair masks with the “medical device” designation can be used. Essential oils, alcohol, and fragrances found in regular facial masks can easily irritate the skin when they enter these tiny pores. Common medical repair masks such as Fuerjia and Kefume are suitable for use after procedures.
How often should Potenza be used?
It is recommended to wait 4 to 6 weeks between each treatment, as the skin needs sufficient time to complete a full cycle of collagen production. A typical treatment course consists of 3 to 5 sessions; too frequent treatments can cause excessive damage to the skin.
How much does it cost to undergo Potenza treatment in South Korea?
In South Korea, the cost of a full-face Potenza treatment at a Dermatology clinic starts from approximately 200,000 to 500,000 Korean won (equivalent to around NT$4,800 to NT$12,000). The fee varies significantly depending on the quality of the clinic and the intensity of the treatment; combined with other therapeutic devices, the total cost for such comprehensive treatments is even higher.
