The first days after a facial are when your skin rests. A short break from make-up, heat and strong products, and keeping up your sun protection, is usually all it takes. Below is a simple list of what to do and what to avoid after a facial, with the reason behind each point.
What does your skin look like straight after a facial?
Straight after a professional facial, your skin looks clean, hydrated and a little fresher. You may have mild, temporary redness, especially if blackheads were removed; it usually settles quickly. Our post on what happens during a professional facial explains each step of the session.
On sensitive skin, a brief pink flush or a slight feeling of warmth is also normal. Because every facial follows a personalised protocol, aftercare differs a little from person to person too; at the end of your session we check how your skin is doing and talk you through what suits you at home.
What should you do in the first 24 hours after a facial?
The rule for the first day is simple: leave your skin in peace and focus on protecting it. These small habits make that easier.
- Wash your face gently: in the evening, use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser without rubbing, then pat your face dry with a towel.
- Do not skip moisturiser: apply a simple moisturiser that your skin is already used to. This is not the best day to try a new product.
- Wear sunscreen: if you are going out during the day, put on your sunscreen. We recommend keeping this up in the days after your facial.
- Drink plenty of water: drinking enough water during the day helps you feel more comfortable.
- Change your pillowcase: a fresh pillowcase means your skin rests on a clean surface all night.
What should you avoid after a facial?
Most of what to avoid after a facial comes down to things that heat your skin, could irritate it or might clog your pores again. These suggestions are there to keep your skin comfortable afterwards.
Skip make-up for the rest of the day
After a facial your pores are clean and your skin needs to rest, so we recommend leaving make-up off for the rest of the day. You can go back to make-up the next day, ideally starting with light products.
Stay away from saunas, hammams and intense heat
For the first 24-48 hours, it is best to stay away from saunas, hammams, steam rooms and very hot showers. Your skin is sensitive after a facial, and intense heat can make it even redder.
Take a day off intense exercise
A hard workout can be tough on your skin because of the heavy sweating and friction that come with it. A gentle walk on the day of your facial is fine; it is more comfortable to leave intense exercise until the next day.
Take a short break from retinol and acids
Products containing retinol, or acids such as AHA or BHA, can make the skin more sensitive. We recommend a short break from them after your facial; at the end of your session, we will look at your skin and tell you when you can start again.
Keep your hands off your face, and do not squeeze
Touching your face during the day can carry dirt and bacteria from your hands to your skin. If you notice a small bump in the days after your facial, do not try to squeeze it; leave it alone, and if it does not settle, send us a message.
Leave exfoliation and waxing until later
Do not exfoliate at home, wax your face or do anything else intensive straight after a facial; that way you spare your skin any unnecessary strain. We will tell you at the end of your session how long to wait.
When can you wear make-up after a facial?
You can usually go back to wearing make-up the next day. We recommend going without on the day of your facial and, if you can, starting with light products the day after.
Clean make-up brushes and sponges matter too. Using a clean brush the first time you put make-up on after a facial helps your skin stay clean.
When should you get in touch with us after a facial?
If you notice any of the following, please send us a message; mild redness and a pink flush, on the other hand, usually settle quickly. Where needed, we will recommend checking with your doctor:
- Redness that lasts longer than a day, or gets worse
- Noticeable itching, burning or swelling
- Unexpected irritation on your skin
We will go through anything like this with you and adapt your next facial, and how often you have one, to your skin.
When should you book a facial before a special occasion?
Before an important day such as a party, a wedding or a photo shoot, we recommend booking your facial about a week ahead. That way any mild redness has time to settle. Our beauty timeline for special occasions explains how to fit your other appointments around it.
Frequently asked questions
When can I wash my face after a facial?
You can wash your face the same evening, with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, without rubbing. We recommend avoiding stiff brushes, exfoliating mitts and very hot water.
Can I go out in the sun after a facial?
Yes, you can; we just recommend wearing sunscreen and not staying in direct sun for long. In the days after your facial, it is a good idea to wear sunscreen every day.
Can I exercise after a facial?
Yes, a gentle walk is fine. We recommend leaving intense exercise that makes you sweat a lot until the next day.
How long does the redness last?
Mild redness usually settles quickly. If it lasts longer than a day or gets worse, send us a message.
A care plan for your skin
The days after your facial matter as much as the session itself. Your sessions are carried out by our expert team of qualified practitioners, who explain each step and look after your comfort throughout. Our Professional Skin Care page covers the steps of a professional facial at our salon in Nişantaşı, Istanbul, and what to keep in mind afterwards. If anything is on your mind in the days after your session, you are welcome to message us.
