The Do’s and Don’ts of Facial Aftercare: Expert Advice for Radiant Results

Written by: Erin Sevigny

Have you just indulged in a luxurious facial but need some facial aftercare advice? Your skin is probably feeling rejuvenated, glowing, and simply fabulous – and you want to keep it that way.

The work doesn’t end when you leave the spa or salon! You’ll need to know proper facial aftercare to maintain that radiant complexion and ensure your skin continues to look its best.

After all, you probably took some time to ensure your skin was prepared for a facial, so why not continue the care before your next facial? Let’s explore the dos and don’ts of after facial care so you can get stunning and long-lasting results to prolong the gorgeous skin you desire.

The Importance of Post-Facial Care

Everyone needs a great facial aftercare routine to maintain the results of the relaxing treatment you just received. Proper facial aftercare can help prevent breakouts, maintain hydration levels, and prolong the benefits of the treatment. Neglecting your post-facial care can lead to skin irritation, breakouts, and even damage, undoing the benefits of your facial.

Facial Aftercare Do’s

Proper aftercare is crucial to maintain the results of your facial and keep your skin healthy and radiant. Following these steps for what to do after a facial will help you achieve long-lasting benefits and avoid common post-facial issues to extend your glow.

Apply Sunscreen Daily

Sunscreen is crucial after a facial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can lead to premature aging and skin damage. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply it every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors. Sunscreen protects your skin and helps maintain the results of your facial by preventing sun damage.

Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine

You might wonder, “Should you wash your face after a facial?” It’s best not to do it immediately, but when you need to, use gentle skincare products that won’t irritate your skin. Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants, and instead, opt for mild cleansers and moisturizers that are suitable for your skin type. A gentle skincare routine will help maintain the balance of your skin and prevent post-facial breakouts or irritation.

Use Esthetician-Recommended Products

Your skincare professional knows your skin best and can recommend products that will complement your facial aftercare routine. Use the products recommended by your esthetician, as they’re specifically chosen to address your skin’s needs and enhance the effects of your facial treatment.

Stay Hydrated

After a facial drink plenty of water to maintain skin hydration and a healthy lifestyle. Your face after a facial may be a little more sensitive and prone to dryness, so staying hydrated can help keep your skin moisturized and promote a healthy complexion. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

Moisturize Regularly

Using a good face lotion is essential since your skin can be more sensitive and prone to dryness after a facial. Regularly moisturizing helps maintain hydration levels and keeps your skin soft and supple. Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type and apply it gently to your face and neck, morning and night. That will lock in moisture and maintain the results of your facial.

Sleep on a Clean Pillowcase

Let Skin Rest and Breathe

Give your skin a break after a facial by avoiding heavy makeup and skincare products for the first 24 hours. Let your skin breathe and recover naturally. This downtime allows your skin to absorb the benefits of the facial treatment without interference from external products.

Pat Face Dry with Clean Towel

After cleansing your face, pat it dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing your skin, as it can cause irritation and damage. Instead, gently patting will help maintain your skin’s integrity and prevent unnecessary friction.

Wait Before Applying Makeup

Give your skin a little time to recover after a facial before applying makeup. Waiting at least 24 hours allows your skin to fully absorb the products used and reduces the risk of irritation or clogged pores. When you apply makeup, use clean brushes or sponges and avoid heavy or pore-clogging products.

Keep Hands Off Face

Avoid touching your face unnecessarily, as this can transfer dirt, oils, and bacteria from your hands to your skin. Touching your face can also irritate sensitive post-facial skin and lead to breakouts. Keep your hands clean, and resist the urge to touch or pick at your skin. 

Facial Aftercare Don’ts

Now that we discussed the dos’, let’s review the don’ts of facial aftercare. After a facial, it’s important to avoid certain practices that could potentially harm your skin or compromise the results of your treatment. That way, you can ensure that your skin remains healthy, radiant, and free from irritation. 

Don’t Use Exfoliating Products for 72 Hours

Your skin will likely be more sensitive after a facial, especially if it involves exfoliation. Avoid using harsh exfoliants, scrubs, or peels for at least 72 hours after your treatment. Using these products too soon can irritate your skin and undo the benefits of your facial.

Avoid Direct Sunlight and Tanning Beds

Direct sunlight and tanning beds can damage skin, especially after a facial. UV rays can cause sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. That’s why protecting your skin is crucial. Stay out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning beds for at least a few days after your facial.

If you must be outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. 

Don’t Pick at Skin or Pop Pimples

Picking at your skin or popping pimples can lead to scarring, infection, and further breakouts. After a facial, your skin may be more prone to irritation, so it’s essential to resist the urge to pick at any blemishes.

Instead, let your skin heal naturally and consider using spot treatments recommended by your esthetician.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Alcohol-Based Products

Harsh chemicals and alcohol-based products can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation, especially after a facial. Avoid using products that contain these ingredients, as they can disrupt the balance of your skin and lead to dryness or inflammation. Opt for gentle, hydrating products suitable for your skin type to maintain the results of your facial. 

Don’t Take Hot Showers

Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause dryness, especially after a facial. Avoid taking hot showers or baths and opt for lukewarm water instead. That helps maintain the moisture balance of your skin and prevents irritation. 

Avoid Heavy Makeup Immediately After

After a facial, your skin needs time to breathe and recover. Avoid applying heavy makeup for at least 24 hours, as it can clog pores and interfere with healing. opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic makeup if you need to wear any.

Don’t Perform At-Home Facial Treatments

While it’s tempting to continue the pampering at home, avoid performing any at-home facial treatments immediately after a professional facial. Your skin is delicate and may be more sensitive to harsh ingredients or techniques.

Avoid Swimming in Chlorinated Pools

Chlorine in swimming pools can irritate your skin, especially after a facial. Avoid swimming in chlorinated pools for at least 24-48 hours to prevent irritation and dryness. If you do swim, make sure to rinse off thoroughly afterward and apply a moisturizer.

Don’t Use Retinol or Vitamin C Products for a Few Days

Retinol and vitamin C are potent ingredients that can be too harsh for skin that has just undergone a facial. Avoid using products containing these ingredients for a few days after your facial to prevent irritation and allow your skin to heal properly.

Avoid Strenuous Exercise for 24 Hours

After a facial, it’s best to avoid strenuous excercise for at least 24 hours. Excessive sweating can irritate your skin and potentially lead to breakouts. Instead, opt for light exercise or activities that won’t cause you to sweat excessively.

Schedule a Facial at Franklin Skin Studio

Now that you know the dos and don’ts of facial aftercare, you have all the aftercare advice for facials to ensure your skin stays radiant and healthy! If you want to experience the benefits of a professional facial, book an appointment at Franklin Skin Studio. Our facials aren’t just about pampering but giving your skin the care it deserves.

We offer services for facials in Brentwood and facials in Franklin with a wide range of skin care treatments to suit your needs. From hydrating facials to deep-cleansing treatments, rejuvenate and refresh your skin today!

To speak to a Franklin Skin Studio skin care specialist, book an appointment for a facial, or find out about the kind of facial that would be right for you, give us a call at 615-509-4730 today.