Five Things You Should Never Do After A Facial

EXFOLIATION? YOUR FACE SAYS NO.

“If Vitamin A or BHAs were used, then I would advise waiting five days before exfoliating. For milder facials using lactic acid or enzymes then you should be fine to exfoliate after only two-three days. I usually advise on exfoliating in the evening as this is the best time to apply active ingredients.”. Crystal Patel, Managing Director at Clinica Laseshared that it’s important to take note of what you’re having done, but more importantly, it’s vital to allow your skin the chance to recover.

PICKING AT YOUR SKIN WILL ONLY MAKE THINGS WORSE.

Whilst it might be tempting to start picking at imperfections following a facial, your skin will be super sensitive – so don’t! Try to leave your face alone, at least for 24 hours.

“Often a facial will result in grazes and mini-scabs, especially if it is acid based and pimples are present. Picking at this will expose unhealed skin underneath which can lead to discolouration and even infection.”, Crystal warns.

NEVER WAX OR LASER REMOVE HAIR. EVER.

The amount of time you wait to remove hair both pre and post facial will depend on the type and strength of your facial treatment. However, as a general rule of thumb, seven days either side of a facial treatment is what’s generally recommended – just to be safe.

THE MAKEUP YOU USE MATTERS.

The makeup you choose to wear following a procedure is as important as your skincare. “Cosmetic products often contain high amounts of chemicals and when the skin’s barrier has been compromised it is important to use preparations that are not going to cause aggravation. I prefer the Colorescience range as it is a high concentration mineral based make-up and safe to use after almost all procedures.”

DON’T FORGET SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen is always a must. In fact, be wary of a facialist who doesn’t apply sunscreen directly after your facial. Crystal tells us “a facial will usually remove the top layers of skin leaving new skin exposed that will be sensitive and more susceptible to UV damage for a few days’ post-treatment. This is of particular relevance in Australia where the UV is extremely strong and the rate of skin cancer is high. I prefer to use a chemical free (physical) sunscreen after a facial treatment for two reasons: 1) you are protected as soon as it has been applied and 2) I don’t like to introduce chemicals onto the skin as they often lead to adverse reactions.” Amen to that.