How Often Should You Book a Facial?

You only need to book some types of cosmetic treatments once to enjoy their full benefits. Others need to be repeated on a fairly consistent basis, as the results they provide wear off with time. One example of a treatment that needs to be repeated is a facial. But as with any type of skin treatment, it is possible to get too much of a good thing.

Here’s how often you should be booking your facials to get the most benefit out of them.

What’s Your Skin Type?

In large part, how frequently you schedule a facial depends on your skin type. People with “normal” or “dry” skin can usually get the most from a once-a-month facial.

If you have oily skin or your skin is prone to breakouts and acne, you might be better off scheduling a facial more frequently. Often, it’s recommended that people who are experiencing regular breakouts schedule a weekly or bi-weekly facial. You can reduce the frequency as your skin clears up.

If you have a particularly busy schedule, committing to monthly facials might seem particularly challenging. If that’s the case, you might consider booking a facial every other month or once a season. Your dermatologist can evaluate your skin and give you an idea of the frequency that will give you the best results.

Do You Have an Event Coming Up?

A word of warning when you are booking your facial. Take a look at your social calendar before you schedule anything.

Although facials can make your skin look and feel better, they initially might make you look a bit worse. It’s common for people to have some redness of the skin after facials. That redness might fade within a few hours or it might persist for a day or two. For that reason, it’s a good idea not to schedule your facials the day of or even the day before a big event.

How to Prepare for Your Facial

What should you do to get ready for a facial? For a few days before, avoid using any sort of scrubs or exfoliating products on your face. One of the goals of a facial is to exfoliate your skin. Over-exfoliating in the days leading up to it can make you more prone to irritation.

It’s also a good idea to avoid sun exposure for a few days or a week before your facial. Wear sunscreen daily and limit the amount of time you spend in the sun.

If you are a man with facial hair, it’s a good idea to shave the day of your facial. Stubble can get in the way during the procedure.

It’s a good idea to bring along a list of any medications you’re taking, so that your doctor knows what they are. Some medicines can make skin more sensitive to certain products.

How to Choose the Right Facial for Your Skin

Different types of facials target different skin concerns. In some cases, such as the Hydrafacial, you can choose to add “boosters” to the procedure, based on your specific skin issues. For example, you can add a Growth Factor booster to help minimize the appearance of fine lines or a Britenol booster to help even out your skin tone.

Caring for Your Skin After a Facial

No significant recovery is needed after your facial, so you can jump back into your regular cosmetic or skin care habits right away. For example, you can apply makeup right after treatment if you want. It’s often recommended that you schedule your facial for the end of the day, so that you can go home and give your skin a chance to breathe and enjoy the results of the treatment before you wear makeup again.

If you’re ready to book your first facial or want to get in the habit of scheduling regular facials, your dermatologist can help you get into a routine and can recommend the right boosters options for you. Dr. Diane Walder is a leading dermatologist in the US. She offers Hydrafacials and medical-grade facials performed by specialists at her practice in Miami. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Walder or one of her associates, call 305-866-2177 today.