After a facial, when your skin feels heavenly and youthful, you might feel like you can take on the whole world. The smarter move, however, is to research what you should and should not do (which is why you’re here, right?). Although you feel like a new person, your skin still needs time to heal from your facial treatment. As such, it is important to pay special attention to your skin post-facial treatment.
Follow Post-Treatment Instructions
Before leaving your appointment, be sure to listen to your esthetician; they will have post-treatment instructions for you to follow. These instructions may include avoiding certain skincare products or activities, using specific products or medications, and following a particular skincare routine. It’s crucial to follow these instructions carefully to ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications. And if there is anything you do not understand, be sure to ask! It is always better to clarify any concerns before you leave the office.
Do Not Pick Your Skin
For most people, pinching, popping, and peeling your skin is a temptation. Most skincare specialists will tell you that picking at your skin is never a wise move, since doing so can drive infection deeper into your skin, causing more problems. After a facial, such as a chemical peel, you do not want to touch your skin. Let the healing process move at its own pace. Your skin will look beautiful without your intervention.
Protect Your Skin From the Sun
As you are well aware, the sun is not always your friend—especially after a facial treatment. Chemical peels and facial masks can leave your skin far more sensitive to UV rays than usual. Leaving your skin exposed to sunlight may lead to damage and even impact the healing process. When that happens, you have an increased risk of hyperpigmentation and scarring.
For at least 3 days after your facial, stay out of direct sun exposure and use at least SPF 30. Afterwards, continue using sunscreen. Reapply it every 2 hours if you are going for a swim.
Avoid Sweaty Activities
Make sure you visit the gym before your facial treatment, because you are not going to be able to do it immediately afterwards. Increased body temperature can irritate your skin, as can sweat. Furthermore, your healing process may be delayed. As such, skincare specialists recommended avoiding strenuous activities and exercise for at least 24 to 48 hours after a facial treatment.
If you are adamant about visiting the gym, try a less intense workout. Avoid wiping your face or any inverted positions that may cause heat to rush towards your face, such as downward facing dog in yoga.
Use Gentle Skincare Products
Some facial treatments, such as exfoliation and chemical peels, can leave your skin looking a little red and raw. You may be tempted to put on some makeup to cover some of the discoloration. Skip it. After a facial, your pores are completely clean and open, meaning that they are more susceptible. Serums, creams, and other forms of makeup can introduce bacteria and other irritants.
Additionally, skip any alcohol-based or astringent ingredients. They will cause your face to burn and become even more irritated.
Instead, use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen that are specifically designed for sensitive or post-treatment skin. If you don’t have any, ask your esthetician for their product recommendations.
Stay Away From Acne Products and At-Home Facial Treatments
Post-facial care is all about rest. You do not want to overdo it, particularly when it comes to at-home skincare. For a couple of days, it is important that you lay your normal skincare routine to rest. Avoid any at-home peels, toners, salicylic acid, and retinol. Remember, over-exfoliating your skin makes it more likely that it will heal poorly.
You should also avoid face masks. Many masks have ingredients for exfoliating, brightening, and treating acne that can make your post-facial skin extremely sensitive. It’s a recipe for more redness. The only exception are face masks made from hyaluronic acid and other moisturizing ingredients.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin hydrated and promote healing. Water helps flush toxins out of your body and keeps your skin plump and supple. Avoid dehydrating drinks like caffeine or alcohol.
Stay Well Rested
Although facial treatments can leave you feeling relaxed, your skin will still need time to recover. Try to get plenty of sleep and avoid stressful situations that could delay the healing process. Stress can increase inflammation and cortisol levels, which can impair the healing process and cause breakouts or other skin issues.
Treat Yourself to a Facial—You’ll Love It
Facial treatments are an excellent way to nourish your skin and diminish the appearance of blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles. However, the aftercare is one of the most important parts. By following the tips in this article, you can boost your recovery and get smoother, more radiant skin.
Treat yourself to a facial today. Call DrSkin Med Spa to schedule a consultation or another appointment. Our amazing team is here to provide you with expert advice and personalized treatment options to help you get gorgeous skin you love.
