Maximize Your Facial Experience: Expert Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes
Facials are a luxurious way to rejuvenate your skin while providing a moment of well-deserved self-care. They can help address various skincare concerns, from blemishes to uneven skin tone. However, to optimize the results of your facial, it is essential to be mindful of certain practices before, during, and after your treatment. We gathered insights from three expert estheticians to highlight the common habits you should avoid for a more effective facial treatment.
1. Hair Preparation: Avoid Fresh Styles Before Your Facial
According to Daisy Severino, an esthetician and owner of Seda Skin Studio, arriving with freshly styled hair may interfere with the treatment process. “If you’re concerned about preserving your hairstyle, it might hinder my ability to effectively treat your skin,” she explains. To prevent any complications, consider arriving with hair that was styled a day or two prior.
2. Steering Clear of Active Ingredients Before Your Appointment
Severino also advises against using products with active ingredients, such as vitamin C, glycolic acid, or retinol, for about three days preceding your facial. “The presence of these actives can restrict the techniques and products I can use during your treatment, affecting the overall results,” she notes.
3. Patience with Product Purchases
While browsing skincare products before your session might be tempting, Samantha Susca, the lead esthetician at Casa Cipriani, recommends saving your purchases for after the facial. “It’s essential to wait until after your appointment to buy products,” she suggests. Your esthetician’s recommendations will be tailored specifically to your skin needs.
4. Proceeding with Caution on Online Purchases
Be wary of buying skincare products from unverified online sources. “Not everything sold online is legitimate,” Susca warns. “Using expired products can lead to irritation. It’s best to purchase recommended items directly from the professional treating your skin to ensure quality and safety.”
5. Engage with Your Esthetician
Engagement during your treatment is key. Susca mentions that many clients wait until after their session to ask questions about their skincare, which limits the chance to receive personalized advice. “Utilize the time you have with your esthetician to ask questions,” she advises, highlighting the importance of clear communication.
6. Avoid Home Extractions and Dermaplaning
While self-care at home is encouraged, Susca cautions against performing extractions or dermaplaning yourself. “These procedures should be executed by a professional to avoid damaging your skin,” she states. “Using improper tools can lead to permanent damage.”
7. Consistency is Key in Your Skincare Routine
Severino emphasizes that sporadic appointments without a consistent at-home skincare regimen will hinder results. “Each session may feel like starting over without regular maintenance,” she points out. Adopting a dedicated routine will help build on progress achieved during your facial treatments.
8. Reconsider Sauna and Steam Room Use Post-Facial
Using the sauna or steam room directly after a facial may counteract its benefits. “Applying beneficial products and then sweating them out can negate their effects,” explains Severino. It is advisable to either utilize the sauna before your treatment or skip it altogether afterward.
9. Manage Expectations for Results
First-time clients often look for immediate brightening results. JoAnne Valentine, an esthetician at Reset Skin and Wellness, advises patience. “Expecting instant results from one treatment, especially if it’s your first, is unrealistic,” she remarks. Repairing years of skin damage requires time and consistent care.
10. Allow Time for Products to Work
Lastly, Valentine stresses the importance of giving new skincare products a chance to take effect. “Switching products too soon can prevent you from seeing the desired results,” she advises. It typically takes several weeks to fully assess a product’s efficiency.
11. Report Any Skin Reactions Promptly
If you experience a skin reaction following your treatment, Severino urges clients to communicate immediately. “Don’t hesitate to contact me; addressing issues promptly can help prevent complications. Open communication allows me to assist effectively,” she states.
By being aware of these common pitfalls, clients can greatly enhance their facial experience, leading to healthier, more radiant skin.