What to Expect
For first-time facial clients, the experience is designed to be relaxing and beneficial for your skin. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Consultation: Your esthetician will begin with a consultation to understand your skin concerns, goals, and any specific issues you’d like to address.
- Skin Analysis: Expect a thorough analysis of your skin type and condition. This helps determine the most suitable products and techniques for your facial.
- Double Cleansing: The facial starts with a gentle cleansing to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities from your skin, allowing the esthetician to work on a clean canvas. Then, a second cleanse will be based on your skin type and condition.
- Professional Exfoliation: Depending on your skin type, there may be an exfoliation step to remove dead skin cells and promote a smoother complexion.
- Extractions (if needed): If you have minor congestion, the esthetician may perform light extractions. For deeper congestion, like blackheads or whiteheads, extractions may be added as an add-on to clear your pores.
- Facial Massage: Enjoy a relaxing facial massage to stimulate blood flow, improve circulation, and relieve tension in facial muscles.
- Masque Application: A customized mask is applied to address your specific skincare needs, whether it’s hydration, detoxification, or brightening.
- Serums and Moisturizers: Your esthetician will finish the facial by applying serums and moisturizers suitable for your skin type, leaving your skin nourished and hydrated.
- Product Recommendations: Your esthetician may provide recommendations for at-home skincare based on your skin analysis and concerns.
- Relaxation: Throughout the process, you’re encouraged to relax and enjoy the tranquil environment of the skincare clinic.
Remember to communicate openly with your esthetician, especially if you have any concerns or preferences. Your first facial is an opportunity to not only improve your skin but also to unwind and indulge in a pampering experience.
Pre-Facial Preparation:
- Wear comfy clothes. You will be asked to dress in a robe.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your facial. Hydrated skin responds better to treatments
- Although wearing makeup before the appointment is okay and will be removed by the esthetician, it is best to come with a clean/unwashed face so your skin is properly assessed and ensures a thorough cleansing.
- Avoid shaving or waxing for one week before the facial appointment.
- Stick to your regular skincare routine, but avoid using any AHA/BHAS, retinol, or harsh exfoliants one week before the appointment.
- Avoid booking too close to an event. 1.5-2 weeks before the event is recommended.
- Wait 2-4 weeks after receiving botox, fillers, and laser treatments.
- Prepare a list or take a photo of your current skincare products.
- Share your skincare concerns and skin goals. Fill out the required forms. Notify the esthetician if there are any changes to your health/skin.
- If you plan on working out the day of the appointment, do it before the appointment. Come showered after you work out.
- Stay out of the sun 72 hours before the facial.
- Avoid any caffeinated drinks before the appointment. Relax and put your phone on silent. This time is for you.
Post-Facial Instructions:
- Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate!
- Avoid touching your face. Your skin may purge and small breakouts may occur after the facial. This just means that your skin is healing and clearing out the impurities from underneath the skin and is pushed to the surface.
- Avoid heavy makeup for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid strenuous activities, saunas, and excess heat (hot water) for 48 hours.
- Avoid harsh skin care products for 1 week. You can start using any AHA/BHAS, retinol, or exfoliants after one week.
- Change out your linens and pillowcases.
- Avoid waxing, shaving, or plucking treated areas for 2 weeks.
- Apply sun protection at least 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2-4 hours during the day – cloudy, rain, or shine!
- Follow the treatment plan recommended by your esthetician. Reach out with any updates or concerns.
Facials FAQs
What types of facials are available?
We offer a range of facial treatments designed to treat any facial concern. Whether you want a relaxing facial or a treatment-based one, your esthetician can help you choose the right one for your skin at the time of your appointment.
What is the duration of a facial?
The length of a facial can vary depending on the type and the number of treatments included, but it generally lasts between 45 minutes to 90 minutes.
What should I wear to a facial?
Dress comfy! You’ll usually be asked to remove your upper-body garments and to dress into a robe/wrap.
Can I wear makeup to my facial appointment? Can I wear makeup after my facial?
It’s better to arrive without makeup, but if you wear it, your aesthetician will remove it. It’s advisable to wait a few hours before applying makeup after a facial to allow the skincare products to fully absorb. Your esthetician will provide guidance based on the specific products used.
How often should I get a facial?
It depends on your skin type and concerns. While some people benefit from monthly facials, others may need it less frequently. Consult your aesthetician for a personalized recommendation.
Will there be any downtime?
Some facials, like chemical peels, may require downtime. However, many facials have no downtime, and you can return to your regular activities immediately.
Is it going to hurt?
Most facials are designed to be relaxing and pain-free. However, certain treatments, such as extractions or chemical peels, might cause some discomfort. Your esthetician will communicate with you throughout the process to ensure your comfort.
Can I get a facial if I have sensitive skin or a skin condition?
Yes, but consult with your esthetician beforehand to customize the treatment for your skin type. If you have a medical skin condition, consult your dermatologist first.
What can I expect after my facial?
Your skin may look glowing, hydrated, and fresh. However, depending on the treatment type, you could experience temporary redness, sensitivity, and minor breakouts (aka purging).
Are there any side effects?
Side effects vary depending on the facial but can include redness, irritation, and peeling. These are usually temporary.
Should men get facials too?
Absolutely! Facials are suitable for all genders and can address various skincare concerns, including issues specific to men, such as shaving-related irritation.
Can I exercise after a facial?
It’s best to wait at least 48 hours before exercising, as sweating could affect the newly exfoliated skin.
Can I get a facial if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes! We have a range of treatments and products safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Disclose this information to the esthetician and she will tailor your treatment.