We're sure you've heard this before - regular facials combat the toll that stress, the environment, and some of the effects our (bad) daily habits can have on our skin. 

But did you know that your post-facial aftercare plays a huge role in keeping your skin in tip-top condition? To keep your skin looking dewy fresh and glowing well beyond your one-hour pampering sesh, here are some things to do after your facial. 

Day 1 

1. Go easy on your face when washing 

Oftentimes, the serums and deep cleansing of your skin during a facial can disrupt the skin barrier, making it ultrasensitive up to 6 hours after. Go easy when you wash your face after a facial by opting for gentle, hydrating cleansers. 

2. Skip the toner

This might sound preposterous for someone who swears by toners in their skincare routine, but - hear us out. Applying toners after a facial, especially if they are alcohol-based or contain exfoliating ingredients, can cause irritation or dryness. So skip the application for a day or two, and give your skin some time to rest and reset. 

3. Skip the heavy makeup 

It’s important to let your skin breathe for a day or two, because your pores are more open than usual, and thus more susceptible to bacteria. Take a break from makeup and heavy products that might clog your pores. This allows the serums, creams, and masks that were used to work their magic on your skin. 

To avoid post-facial breakouts, ensure that your brushes and applicators have been thoroughly cleaned before applying makeup. You don’t want those gnarly pimples to form and erase all the magic your facial has done on your skin!

Days 2 and 3 

4. Stay away from harsh skincare products 

Products that can turn post-facial radiance into redness include retinols, at-home peels, and cleansers and toners with salicylic acid. Avoid using them in the first 24-48 hours after your facial, as these can be harsh and cause irritation to the skin. 

If you’re unsure of what products to use post-facial, hit your beauty consultant up with your questions. She’ll be able to provide recommendations of what to use on your face, based on your unique skin needs and concerns.

5. Stay out of the sun 

It’s probably best to reschedule that beach date if you had it planned right after your facial. Because your skin has been thoroughly exfoliated during the facial, it’s now more sensitive and vulnerable to the sun’s harmful rays. That’s why sunscreen is always your best friend; the sun - not so much. 

Day 4 and after

On top of the above-mentioned to-do’s and to-don’ts, here are some additional skincare tips to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant in the long run. 

1. Continue your skincare routine twice a day: cleanse, tone, and moisturise. 

Don’t forget the serums, eye creams, and sunscreen too! 

2. Don’t sleep with makeup on. 

Not only can this clog pores and cause breakouts, but sleeping with your makeup on can result in a duller complexion and premature ageing in the long-run. A definite no-no. 

3. Keep yourself hydrated with at least 8 glasses of water per day. 

Pro-tip: Drink your water from a 1-litre bottle, so you can keep track of how much you’re drinking in a day and work towards getting 2 litres in every day.  

4. Eat clean, exercise regularly 

Maintain a healthy and balanced diet with ample fruits and vegetables. Eating the right foods can also boost the production of collagen, which is necessary for the elasticity and health and skin cells. These include citrus fruits like oranges, chicken, fish, and leafy greens like spinach and kale. 

Physical activity plays an important role too, so make sure you incorporate exercise into your daily, or weekly, routine. Even a simple light aerobic exercise, like brisk walking, can do wonders for your overall physical and mental health - and this will show on your skin. 

Skincare doesn’t just stop at a facial. Aftercare is key in maximizing and prolonging the benefits of your facial, and through these tips that we’ve shared, we're certain you'll be saying hello to brighter, clearer, and healthier skin in the long haul.

Our skincare concierge is here for you - anytime, anywhere. Drop a question to us at hello@thefirstrefresh.com and we'll get back to you as soon as possible!