Facials are like a 60-minute makeover (without an ugly ‘feature wall’). Whichever combo of steam, scrub, cleanser, peel, or extraction you go for, you’ll be reaping the benefits of good skin in a very short amount of time. But post-salon trip, our skin can go through various phases of ‘problematic’ before settling in to its new-found glow. This is what is (and isn’t) normal after a facial – aside from damn good skin.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Redness
If you’ve just finished up at a deep pore cleansing facial, your skin has been thoroughly ‘extracted’. That means clogged pores, blackheads and rough texture has been tackled for smoother skin all-round. As the esthetician will have squeezed your skin, it’s normal to expect redness (especially if your blackheads were large, and pores properly clogged). Expect a pinky-tinge for around 24-48 hours post-facial.
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2 Rosy glow
During a facial, your esthetician will work to increase the blood circulation in your face (to combat dull and tired skin). A combo of steam and facial massage will get blood flowing to freshen up and nourish your skin – think ‘youthful radiance on tap’ and a vibrant-looking flow. Your skin may be slightly warm to the touch and definitely beaming for a few hours (and hopefully longer) after your salon trip.
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3 Breakouts
It’s a hard fact to deal with, that after a ‘cleansing facial’ spots appear. This is normal – promise – when your esthetician extract your skin, sometimes oil remains beneath the surface. As your pores continue to ‘self-clean’ post-facial, spots can appear. The good news is, once they’ve healed, your pores are cleaner (so easier to swerve future breakouts).
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4 What's not normal
Though there are sure to be some side effects once you’re back from the salon, it’s good to recognise symptoms that aren’t so normal. If your skin is itchy or you notice a rash, you might be allergic to the products used. Discuss any allergies before your treatment begins, but if you notice problems post-treatment, get in touch with the salon for advice.
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FAQs
Is it normal for your skin to be red after a facial?
You can expect redness for around 24-48 hours after a deep pore cleansing facial. Redness happens because the esthetician extracts clogged pores and blackheads, which can leave your skin with a pinky tinge for a day or two.
Why do you get breakouts after a cleansing facial?
Breakouts can appear after a cleansing facial because some oil may remain under the skin during extractions. As your pores continue to clean themselves post-treatment, new spots may show up. Once these have healed, your pores will be cleaner and help lower the chance of future breakouts.
How long does your skin have a glow after a facial?
Your skin usually has a rosy glow for a few hours or longer after a facial. The combination of steam and facial massage improves circulation, leaving your skin looking fresh and vibrant straight after your salon visit.
What are signs your reaction after a facial is not normal?
If your skin is itchy or you notice a rash after a facial, those are not normal side effects. These symptoms can mean an allergic reaction to the products used, so you should contact the salon for advice if you have problems post-treatment.
What should you do before your facial treatment if you have allergies?
If you have any known allergies, tell your esthetician before your facial begins. Discussing allergies ahead of time helps them choose products that are safe for your skin and reduces the risk of a negative reaction during or after the treatment.