After a facial, the skin is often delicate and especially vulnerable to damage. Many of the best tips for facial aftercare focus on avoiding situations and products that could irritate the fresh, sensitive skin. Facial aftercare generally calls for avoiding cosmetic products or procedures and exposure to harsh weather conditions such as strong wind or sun. Additional tips for facial aftercare focus on holistic approaches such as drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy diet, which encourage the body’s natural healing abilities.
Avoiding makeup after a facial is an important part of aftercare because cosmetics can cause skin irritation and inflammation. The time frame varies according to the sensitivity of individuals’ skin, but it is generally recommended to avoid cosmetics for eight to 24 hours after having a facial. People who absolutely must wear makeup should avoid heavy foundations and stick to gentle mineral makeup and mascara during the healing period. If the skin needs moisturizing or cleansing, the spa technician can often provide or recommend gentle, non-comedogenic products that are less likely to cause irritation. Products that are scented, artificially colored, or abrasive are not good choices for facial aftercare.
Professional cosmetic procedures such as additional facials, laser hair removal, waxing, or micro-dermabrasion must be avoided for several days after a facial. While spas often recommend that clients schedule subsequent appointments after a procedure, most people should not have facials more than once a month. Typically, the skin is far too sensitive to endure sequential cosmetic procedures without incurring irritation or lasting damage.
Extreme weather conditions can aggravate post-procedure skin, so avoiding biting winds and direct sunlight are important elements of facial aftercare. Sunbathing in natural light or a tanning bed should be avoided for 24–48 hours after having a facial. The heat from a steam room or sauna can also cause inflammation. Swimming is not recommended, particularly in public or chlorinated pools. In cold weather, outdoor activities such as skiing should be avoiding in the first 24–48 hours to reduce exposure to extreme cold and wind.
Facial aftercare is primarily concerned with purification and healing, so many spas recommend holistic approaches. Drinking lots of water is important because adequate hydration is essential for skin cell regeneration. A healthy diet based on whole grains, multicolored fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats will be rich in the vitamins and antioxidants that help the body speed healing. Furthermore, getting approximately eight hours a night of sound sleep and engaging in daily exercise both reduce stress encourage renewal.