Pre-Facial and Post-Facial Care: Dos and Don'ts for the Best Results

Professional facials are a great way to refresh and rejuvenate your appearance. However, many people don't know how to prepare for a facial or are unsure what to do afterward. Proper preparation and following facial aftercare tips allow you to maximize your benefits and maintain your new results for as long as possible. 

 At NuMe Aesthetics in Seattle, WA, we guide patients through each step of the process so they know what to expect. Book an appointment today to learn how facials can transform your skin texture and tone. 

What is a facial? 

So, what is a facial? A facial is a treatment that improves the health and appearance of your skin. Treatments typically include cleansing, exfoliation, extractions if needed, masks, serums, and moisturizers. Professional facials use medical grade skincare products that penetrate deeper and work more effectively than over-the-counter options. 

How to prepare for a facial 

Proper preparation starts 24 – 48 hours before your appointment:  

• Avoid harsh treatments: Skip retinoids, chemical peels, or other aggressive products for at least 48 hours before your facial. These can make your skin overly sensitive. 
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water in the time leading up to your treatment. Hydrated skin responds better and heals faster. 
• Skip the heavy makeup: Arrive with a clean face or minimal makeup. You'll need to remove it anyway, and starting fresh saves time. 

Facial aftercare tips: First 24 hours 

The immediate hours after your facial are crucial:  

• Keep it simple: Use only gentle, hydrating products. Avoid active ingredients like retinol, acids, or vitamin C for at least 24 hours. 
• Don't touch your face: Resist the urge to pick at any extractions or touch your skin. This can introduce bacteria to the area and cause breakouts. 
• Avoid heat: Skip hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and intense workouts that cause heavy sweating. 

Post-facial care: Days 2 – 7 

Continue protecting your investment with these aftercare tips:  

• Use SPF daily: Your skin may be more sensitive to sun damage. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning before going outside. 
• Stick with gentle products: Gradually reintroduce active ingredients after 48 hours, but monitor how your skin responds. 
• Follow recommendations: Our team members at NuMe Aesthetics in Seattle, WA may suggest specific medical grade skincare products to extend your results. 

What to avoid after your facial 

Certain activities can compromise your results:  

• Waxing or using harsh hair removal methods for 48 hours 
• Getting additional facial treatments without proper spacing 
• Using harsh scrubs or exfoliants 
• Applying fragranced or irritating products 

Maintaining your new skin texture and tone 

A single facial provides immediate benefits, but consistent care can maintain your outcomes. Schedule regular facials based on your skin type and concerns, typically every 4 – 6 weeks. Between appointments, use medical grade skincare products recommended by our team to support healthy skin texture and tone. 

At NuMe Aesthetics, we can recommend skincare routines that work with your professional treatments for lasting results. 

Get glowing skin with a facial 

Understanding how to prepare for a facial and following proper facial aftercare tips ensures you can get the most from your treatment. At NuMe Aesthetics in Seattle, WA, we're proud to offer this option to patients. Whether you're asking "What is a facial?" or want treatment recommendations, our team is here to help. Call now for an appointment and experience the difference professional care makes.