What To Do After a Facial: Your Post-Care Guide
Professional skincare treatments can strengthen your moisture barrier, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and help restore a glowing, healthy complexion. To maximize your results and protect your post-treatment skin from sun damage, clogged pores, and other adverse effects, it’s essential to practice proper aftercare. This guide covers what to do after a facial so you know exactly how to care for your skin after treatment.
What to do immediately after your facial treatment
Facial aftercare begins the moment your facial appointment ends. Here’s what to do to nourish your skin immediately after custom facial treatments:
Stay hydrated
Many facials include a revitalizing massage and intense moisture infusions, but maintaining that plump, dewy glow requires hydration from the inside out. Drink plenty of water to flush toxins from your system, support your body’s natural healing process, and prevent excessively dry skin on your face.
Use moisturizers
A nourishing moisturizer is another key element of facial aftercare. Choose a soothing, fragrance-free cream rich in hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
Skip the makeup
After a facial, you may have sensitive skin and open pores for several days, so it’s important to let your skin breathe. Comedogenic makeup products will need to wait, especially after a chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or an acne extraction.
Don’t touch your face
Our bodies are home to a diverse range of beneficial and harmful microorganisms, and the bacteria on your hands can easily enter open pores and micro-injuries in your skin following a facial treatment. Keep your hands off your face to prevent breakouts and infections.
Follow your provider’s instructions
Your esthetician will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you navigate post-facial skincare with confidence. Be sure to follow their guidelines and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about what to do after a facial.
Read more: Your Hydrafacial Guide: Uses, Benefits, and What To Expect
What to do after a facial in the following days
As the immediate glow fades, treat your post-facial skin with a little extra care to help preserve it. Here are some tips:
Cleanse gently
Starting the day after your facial treatment, wash your face with cool water and a mild cleanser that won’t strip your skin of natural oil and moisture. If you’re unsure about which product to use, your esthetician can offer personalized suggestions tailored to your skin.
Avoid harsh exfoliants
You may notice flaky, dead skin cells as your body purges older layers and replaces them with more youthful cells. Never pick at peeling skin or use harsh scrubs to accelerate the process. Instead, wait at least three to five days to introduce a mild chemical exfoliant.
Use sun protection
When it comes to what to do after a facial, sun protection is at the top of the list. Since many facials encourage exfoliation and cellular regeneration, your skin will be particularly susceptible to sun exposure. UV rays can damage your skin even if you stay indoors all day, so apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF every day to protect your skin and prevent burns and hyperpigmentation.
Avoid heat and sweating
Saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and intense exercise are generally off-limits in the days after a facial treatment because sweat can carry bacteria, and heat can intensify inflammation. To avoid prolonged redness, irritation, and damaged skin, keep your body cool during recovery.
Wait before undergoing additional treatments
Cosmetic treatments can be addictive. Once you see improvements, the desire to replicate the effects is only natural. However, it’s best to wait at least a couple of weeks before undergoing additional skincare treatments like chemical peels, laser hair removal, and other aggressive services. Remember, your skin may continue to heal even after redness and sensitivity have subsided.
Related: What To Expect After Your First Laser Hair Removal Session
What to do after a facial for the long term
Proper aftercare doesn’t end when the initial redness and sensitivity subside. Here’s what to do after a facial to offer long-term protection for your skin:
Use hydrating products
Even with regular facial treatments, you may not achieve your desired results if your daily skincare routine is working against you. Opt for nourishing products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to lock in moisture. You can also treat yourself to a hydrating mask to maximize hydration.
Exfoliate regularly
Although harsh scrubs and potent chemical exfoliants are off-limits during the healing process, gentle exfoliation is a key component of regular skincare. Low concentrations of AHAs and BHAs, one to three times a week, can help you shed dead skin cells and maintain an even tone and texture.
Schedule regular facials
While you may see some improvement after a single facial treatment, most facial services deliver gradual effects after several sessions. Depending on the facial, you may complete an initial treatment series followed by occasional maintenance appointments. Or, you might schedule a soothing HydraFacial every six weeks to keep your skin bouncy and hydrated.
Related: Your Guide to the Benefits of a Dermaplaning Facial
Make hydrating facials part of your skincare routine at Silken Aesthetics!
Ready to transform your skin? The team at Silken Aesthetics is here to help. Book a consultation today to discover how we can help you achieve the best skin of your life!