What Not to Do After a Facial : Essential Post-Facial Skincare Tips

We get it—sticking to your workout routine is important. But after a facial, it's best to take a break from intense exercise for at least 24 hours. Why? Because sweating excessively can irritate freshly exfoliated skin and lead to clogged pores. Excess sweat mixes with bacteria on your skin, increasing the risk of breakouts, redness, and irritation. If you absolutely must work out, opt for a light, non-sweaty activity like yoga or a walk, and remember to cleanse your face gently afterward.

Your skin is at its cleanest post-facial, and piling on makeup can clog your pores and trigger breakouts. Since facials often involve deep cleansing, steaming, and exfoliation, your pores are more open than usual, making them more susceptible to bacteria. If you need a little coverage, opt for a lightweight product like the Lakmé 9 to 5 Complexion Care Face Cream – Bronze—a CC cream that evens out your skin tone while allowing it to breathe. Also, ensure that your makeup brushes and sponges are clean before using them to prevent introducing bacteria to your freshly treated skin.

Your facial likely included professional exfoliation, so there's no need to scrub your face again for at least 3-5 days. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin's natural moisture barrier, causing irritation, redness, and dryness. Instead of a harsh scrub, opt for a gentle cleanser like the Refreshing Face Wash with Pro-Vit B5 + Vit E, which cleanses without disrupting your skin's balance.

While you might be tempted to follow up your facial with DIY masks or active ingredients like retinol, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid, it's best to avoid them for a few days. These ingredients can be too harsh on sensitized skin and may lead to redness, peeling, or irritation. Stick to hydrating and soothing skincare instead. A great post-facial pick is the GlassBright UltraLight Crème, which deeply hydrates while enhancing your glow.

Your skin is more vulnerable post-facial, and picking at it can lead to breakouts, inflammation, or scarring. Even if you notice a minor blemish, resist the urge to touch it. Facials often bring impurities to the surface, which will clear up naturally—just be patient!

While steam is an essential part of most facials, exposing your skin to additional heat right after your treatment can lead to excessive redness and irritation. Hot water can strip away essential oils, making your skin dry and more sensitive. Opt for lukewarm water when washing your face and avoid direct hot water contact for at least 24-48 hours after your facial.

Your skin is more sensitive to UV damage post-facial, so direct sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, irritation, and redness. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen like Lakmé Sun Expert Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 before stepping out, even if it's cloudy. If possible, avoid prolonged sun exposure for at least 48 hours to protect your skin and allow it to heal.

Hair removal methods like waxing, threading, or shaving can cause extra irritation when done too soon after a facial. Since facials involve exfoliation, waxing on freshly treated skin can lead to burns, redness, and even breakouts. Wait at least 5-7 days before scheduling any hair removal treatments. A facial is a fantastic way to rejuvenate your skin, but how you care for your skin afterward determines how long that glow lasts. Avoiding these post-facial mistakes will ensure that you get the maximum benefits from your treatment.

After a facial, your skin is in a delicate state, and how you care for it can make a significant difference in the results you see. To ensure your skin stays radiant, healthy, and glowing for the long haul, follow these essential post-facial tips:

Moisturizing is key to replenishing your skin's hydration levels after a facial. Choose a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer that's suitable for your skin type. This will help lock in moisture and prevent dryness, keeping your skin soft and smooth. Look for products with calming ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to further soothe your skin.

Hydration is essential for maintaining your skin's natural glow. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps flush out toxins and supports your skin's healing process. It also helps keep your skin plump and dewy, promoting long-lasting radiance. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

One of the most important steps in your post-facial care routine is applying sunscreen. Your skin is more sensitive to the sun's harmful UV rays after a facial, which can lead to pigmentation and irritation. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even if you're indoors. Reapply throughout the day if you're out in the sun to protect your skin and preserve its glow.

After a facial, avoid using harsh skincare products that can irritate or strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers, exfoliants, and serums that are gentle and non-drying. This will help maintain the balance of your skin while preventing inflammation or breakouts. Avoid products containing active ingredients like retinol or acids for a few days, as they can cause irritation. By following these simple steps, you can enhance and prolong the benefits of your facial, ensuring your skin remains glowing and healthy long after your treatment.

1. No gym or sweating for 24 hours
2. Avoid heavy makeup for a couple of days
3. Skip harsh scrubs, retinol, and strong acids
4. Keep your hands off your face
5. Stay away from hot showers & steam rooms
6. Use SPF religiously to prevent damage
7. Hold off on waxing or shaving for at least a week

Follow these skincare commandments, and your post-facial glow will last much longer!

To maintain the results of your facial, focus on staying hydrated, applying a gentle moisturizer, and using sunscreen daily. Stick to mild skincare products for a few days after the treatment and avoid direct sun exposure. These simple steps will help your skin retain its glow and avoid irritation or breakouts.

Yes, you can wash your face after a facial, but it's important to wait at least 6–12 hours before doing so. Use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser to avoid irritating your skin. This gives your skin enough time to absorb the beneficial products applied during the facial.

Wearing makeup immediately after a facial can clog your pores and interfere with the skin's healing process. Your skin is more sensitive after a facial, and makeup can potentially cause irritation or breakouts. It's best to wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup to allow your skin to breathe and absorb the benefits of the facial.

You can go outside after a facial, but it's important to avoid direct sun exposure for at least 24 to 48 hours. Your skin is more vulnerable to UV rays after a facial, which can lead to irritation or pigmentation. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before going outdoors.