How to prepare for your first facial

A good facial leaves your skin feeling clean, calm and glowing. What many people don’t realise is that a little preparation before your appointment, and some simple aftercare afterwards, can make a real difference to the results. Whether it’s your first facial or you just want to get more from your next one, here’s how to prepare, what happens on the day and how to look after your skin afterwards.

Choosing the right facial

There’s no single facial that suits everyone. Most treatments are tailored to your skin on the day, but it helps to know the main options.

• Deep-cleansing facials focus on congestion, blocked pores and excess oil. They’re a good choice if your skin feels clogged or breaks out easily.
• Hydrating facials put moisture back into tight, dry or dull skin, and are especially popular in winter.
• Brightening facials use gentle exfoliation to help tired skin look fresher and more even.
• Skin peels are a more targeted option for texture and dullness. Find out more on our skin peels page.

If you’re not sure, tell us how your skin feels and what you’d like to improve, and we’ll recommend a suitable option.

A week before

Start thinking about your skin a few days ahead.

• Pause strong actives. Stop using retinoids, exfoliating acids and scrubs for two to three days before your facial, unless a professional has advised otherwise. These products can make your skin more sensitive to exfoliation and extractions.
• Avoid waxing, threading or laser on the face for a few days beforehand. Freshly treated skin can react to facial products.
• Protect your skin from the sun. Sunburnt or very irritated skin may mean some treatments can’t go ahead on the day.
• Don’t try new products. If something you’ve just started causes a reaction, it’s better to know before your appointment.

The day before

Keep your routine simple: a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser and SPF in the morning. Drink plenty of water, and try to get a good night’s sleep. Your skin will thank you.

On the day

You don’t need to arrive with a clean face. Removing make-up is the first step of any facial. It is helpful, though, to bring a list of the skincare products you use, or a photo of them on your phone. It helps your therapist understand your routine and suggest any changes.

During the consultation, mention:

• Any allergies or sensitivities, including to fragrance or nuts
• Recent treatments such as peels, injectables or laser
• Medication that affects your skin
• Whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• What you’d most like to improve

What happens during a facial

Most facials follow a similar pattern. Your therapist will cleanse your skin, often twice, then look closely at it under good light. Next comes exfoliation to lift away dead skin cells, followed by steam or warm towels to soften the skin. Extractions, if needed, clear blocked pores. A mask suited to your skin type follows, often while your hands, neck and shoulders are massaged. The treatment finishes with serums, moisturiser and SPF.

It’s a relaxing experience, and many people find themselves dozing off.

Straight afterwards

Your skin may look a little pink, especially after extractions or exfoliation. This usually settles within a few hours. Some people see a fresh glow straight away; for others the best results show a day or two later.

Aftercare for the next few days

• Let your skin breathe. Skip make-up for the rest of the day if you can.
• Keep it simple. Use a gentle cleanser and moisturiser, and wear SPF 30 or higher every day.
• Avoid exfoliants and actives for a few days, and don’t use scrubs.
• Skip saunas, steam rooms and hard workouts for 24 hours, as heat and sweat can irritate freshly treated skin.
• Hands off. Try not to touch or pick at your skin.

How often should I have a facial?

Many people book every four to six weeks, which roughly matches the skin’s natural renewal cycle. Regular treatments, combined with a good daily routine, tend to give the best results over time.

Ready to book?

Send us a WhatsApp message with a little about your skin and the days that suit you. We’ll reply with availability, prices and a recommendation.