8 Common Mistakes to Avoid After Getting a Facial

Facials are a fantastic way to rejuvenate your skin, providing deep cleansing, exfoliation, hydration, and a boost of essential nutrients. However, the benefits of a facial can be easily undermined if proper post-treatment care isn’t followed. Here are some common mistakes to avoid after getting a facial to ensure you maximize the benefits of your treatment.

1. Touching Your Face

Why It’s a Mistake: Your hands can transfer dirt, oil, and bacteria to your freshly treated skin, potentially causing irritation or breakouts.

What to Do Instead: Keep your hands away from your face to maintain the cleanliness and health of your skin. If you must touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.

2. Using Harsh Skincare Products

Why It’s a Mistake: Post-facial, your skin can be more sensitive. Using products with strong active ingredients like retinoids, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid can cause irritation.

What to Do Instead: Stick to gentle, hydrating, and soothing products recommended by your esthetician for at least 48 hours after your facial. Look for products with calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and hyaluronic acid.

3. Skipping Sunscreen

Why It’s a Mistake: After a facial, your skin may be more vulnerable to UV damage, especially if exfoliation or extractions were part of the treatment.

What to Do Instead: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before stepping out. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors for extended periods.

4. Picking at Your Skin

Why It’s a Mistake: Picking at your skin can lead to irritation, scarring, and infection, undoing the benefits of your facial.

What to Do Instead: Resist the urge to pick at any blemishes or spots. If you have concerns about breakouts or other issues, consult your esthetician for advice..

5. Exposing Your Skin to Heat

Why It’s a Mistake: Hot showers, steam rooms, saunas, and direct sun exposure can exacerbate sensitivity and cause redness.

What to Do Instead: Avoid hot environments and opt for lukewarm water when washing your face. Keep your skin cool and hydrated.

6. Applying Makeup Too Soon

Why It’s a Mistake: Applying makeup right after a facial can clog your pores and interfere with your skin’s natural healing process.

What to Do Instead: Give your skin time to breathe and absorb the benefits of the facial. If possible, wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup. If you need to wear makeup, opt for non-comedogenic and mineral-based products.

7. Not Staying Hydrated

Why It’s a Mistake: Dehydration can counteract the hydrating effects of your facial, leading to dull and dry skin.

What to Do Instead: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Incorporate hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables into your diet as well.

8. Failing to Follow Up with Regular Skincare

Why It’s a Mistake: A single facial can provide immediate benefits, but maintaining those benefits requires consistent skincare.

What to Do Instead: Develop a regular skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin. Schedule follow-up facials as recommended by your esthetician to keep your skin in top condition.

Wrapping Up

Post-facial care is crucial to maximizing the benefits of your treatment and maintaining healthy, glowing skin. By avoiding these common mistakes and following your esthetician’s advice, you can ensure that your skin looks and feels its best. Remember, the key to long-lasting results is consistency and proper care. So, pamper your skin and enjoy the radiant results of your facial treatment!