Posted: March 16, 2021
LASIK recovery is generally a quick and simple process. Even so, patients tend to have questions about resuming their daily routines after undergoing blade-free, all-laser LASIK.
Rest assured that the experienced laser vision correction surgeons at Griffin & Reed Eye Care will give you a detailed post-operative care plan to follow. They will also take the time to answer any specific questions that you may have about the recovery period. In the meantime, keep reading for the answer to a frequently asked question, “When can I wash my face after LASIK?”
A Guide to Post-LASIK Facial Cleansing
Generally speaking, you should wait at least 24 hours after LASIK before washing your face. This is the same guideline that we give our patients for showering. As with showering, you need to avoid getting soap and water in your eyes for a minimum of several days.
The risks involved with getting water or soap in your eyes during the recovery period include:
- Infection
- Burning
- Irritation
- Exacerbated dry eye issues
- Potential harm to the corneal flap
It’s a good idea to take your time applying face wash. Carefully and gently rinse your cleanser away without splashing water. Consider avoiding your forehead entirely, as the soap is more likely to trickle down from that area. When it comes time to dry your face, gently pat your skin with a towel and avoid your eyes.
Many people safely wash their faces during the LASIK healing process using the simple tips above. Yet some patients still worry about accidentally getting liquids in their eyes during their skincare routine.
This concern is completely understandable. Thankfully, there are a few facial cleansing methods that minimize the risk of getting anything in your eyes.
One soap- and water-free cleansing method consists of pouring a facial toner onto a cotton pad and sweeping it over dry skin. This technique gives you complete control over the process. Alternatively, you can wipe your face with a damp washcloth to remove excess dirt and oil. With either method, remember to steer clear of your eye area.
Resuming Your Skincare Routine
Your skincare routine might extend beyond a simple cleanse. Like many of our patients, you may be wondering when you can apply lotions, creams, face masks, and other products.
Our eye surgeons will discuss this consideration with you when they provide post-treatment recommendations. Generally, patients are told to avoid applying any facial products for at least a week after LASIK. Our team may tell you that you don't have to wait the full week, but refrain from putting anything close to your eye area — just to be safe.
Schedule Your Complimentary LASIK Consultation
Life doesn’t have to slow down for LASIK recovery. If you have any questions about what to expect after laser eye surgery, please get in touch. You can arrange a complimentary LASIK consultation by calling 916-485-2020 today.
At Griffin & Reed Eye Care, we have two locations in Sacramento and Roseville for the convenience of our Northern California patients. We proudly offer 20/20 Vision From Your LASIK Surgery Or Your Money Back to qualified patients.
