A good facial feels like a reset button for your skin. But the magic happens after you leave the spa. With the right aftercare, you can calm redness, sidestep breakouts, and stretch that just-got-a-facial glow for days. Here’s what to do after a facial to keep your skin happy once you’ve slipped out of the treatment room.
After Facial Care Tips for Every Skin Type
Post-facial skin is sensitive and needs a little extra TLC. Keep your skincare routine minimal for at least 24 to 48 hours. Focus on hydration, soothing products, and avoiding anything too active or exfoliating.
Should You Wash Your Face After a Facial?
Yes—but carefully. Over-zealous scrubbing and harsh cleansers can leave skin that's already undergone exfoliation and extraction feeling irritated. During your facial, your esthetician has already performed the deep cleansing and exfoliation you might otherwise do weekly or monthly, so give your face a break from vigorous scrubbing for at least 48 hours after your session.
What to Use When Washing Your Face After a Facial
Choose gentle, non-comedogenic cream or foam cleansing agents. Use your fingertips, not a sponge or washcloth that could contain trapped bacteria and feel too harsh for sensitive post-facial skin. Wash with lukewarm water. Skip the toner for the first few washes, many astringent toners can sting or strip your freshly treated skin.
Will My Face Be Red After a Facial?
It’s common to notice redness after a facial, especially if your treatment included extractions or chemical exfoliation. This mild flushing usually fades within a few hours. To calm redness, apply a cold compress or use a soothing serum with aloe, green tea, or niacinamide. Avoid makeup and harsh exfoliants until your skin has fully settled.
Post-Facial Extraction Care
Extractions are sometimes necessary for clearer skin in the long run, but they leave your skin vulnerable. Your aesthetician will apply soothing and protective products to minimize post-facial breakouts, but avoid using non-sterile makeup applicators or touching your skin too often.
Skip the Steam Room After Your Facial
Depending on the kind of facial you choose, you may have already had steaming or heat treatment for your skin. Under an experienced esthetician's care, steaming lasts long enough to stimulate circulation and open pores, but too much of it can lead to broken capillaries and sensitivity. Avoid hot yoga, steamy showers, or saunas for 24–48 hours.
Should You Change Your Sunscreen After a Facial?
Yes. Some chemical sunscreens can feel irritating after a facial. We recommend switching to a physical sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—like EltaMD UV Physical—for better protection and comfort. Be extra diligent about sun protection for at least a week, especially if your facial included exfoliation.
Your Skincare Routine After a Facial
Less is more. Stick to a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Avoid retinoids, exfoliants, and active treatments for 3–5 days unless advised otherwise by your esthetician. Skin needs time to heal and restore its barrier.
How Soon Can You Wear Makeup After a Facial?
Ideally, wait at least 24 hours—especially if your facial included extractions or peels. Let your skin breathe and recover fully to get the most out of your treatment.
Building a Post-Facial Skincare Schedule
The key to getting your best skin possible from professional skin care is setting a schedule. Skin loves routine, so work with your aesthetician to develop a post-facial regimen that leaves your skin healthy and happy.
Looking for more expert advice? Book your next facial at Bella Santé and ask your esthetician to help you build a personalized aftercare routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a facial?
Avoid harsh products, wash your face gently, and use a physical sunscreen. Let your skin breathe and avoid makeup or sun for at least 24 hours.
Is it normal to have redness after a facial?
Yes, redness is normal, especially after extractions or exfoliation. Soothe with cold compresses or calming serums and avoid touching your skin.
Should I wash my face after a facial?
Yes, but wait 24–48 hours and use only a gentle cleanser with lukewarm water. Avoid toner, scrubs, or anything with strong actives.
What products should I avoid after a facial?
Skip retinoids, exfoliants, and heavy makeup. Use gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Avoid steam rooms or hot showers for 24–48 hours.
When can I wear makeup after a facial?
Ideally, wait at least 24 hours—especially after extractions or peels. Letting your skin breathe helps maximize the benefits of your treatment.
