What is edema?

Edema refers specifically to swelling that occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the body's tissues. This can happen for various reasons, including injury, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions that affect fluid balance. The presence of excess fluid leads to a noticeable increase in the size of the affected area, which characterizes edema.

In the context of facial treatments, understanding edema is crucial, as it can occur post-facial treatments or procedures when the skin may temporarily retain fluid. This swelling can be a natural response to irritation or trauma, and recognizing this can help practitioners manage client expectations and post-care effectively.

While redness from inflammation, a painful rash, and skin infections are all significant dermatological concerns, they do not define the specific condition of edema, which is strictly related to fluid retention and swelling.