Getting a HydraFacial will leave your skin feeling smooth and deeply hydrated, but having a plan in place for aftercare is just as important as the treatment. Taking a few easy steps during the days right after your procedure will help you protect your results, keep that glowing look longer, and avoid irritation. We’ll go over some effective tips for HydraFacial aftercare to ensure your skin looks radiant.
What Does a HydraFacial Do?
A HydraFacial is a non-invasive skincare treatment that uses a specialized wand with vortex-like tips to remove dead skin cells and cleanse your pores. After it exfoliates your skin, it loosens any gunk out of your pores with a mild acid peel. The next step is a very gentle vacuum-assisted extraction to clear your pores, and you finish with a skin-hydrating serum infusion.
You can often go back to your routine immediately with no downtime, with the exception of avoiding a few key things for a few days after your HydraFacial. If you have more sensitive skin, you may notice mild redness that fades within a few hours.
1. Avoid Makeup for 24 Hours Post-Treatment
Hold off on applying any makeup for at least 24 hours post-treatment to give your skin a chance to recover. The HydraFacial treatment opens your pores and strips away impurities, and this leaves your skin more receptive to makeup products.
Applying it too soon can clog your open pores, causing breakouts or irritation, and you want to let your skin breathe naturally so the HydraFacial results can settle in. After a day, you can gently reintroduce thin layers of makeup if you want.
2. Skip Applying Any Exfoliating Products
Avoid using any exfoliating products like peels, scrubs, or acids. Since you just had a deep cleansing on your skin, adding more exfoliation may cause irritation, and your skin needs time to adjust and build the natural barrier back up. Ideally, you’ll wait at least 24 hours before going back to your regular exfoliating routine to help preserve the HydraFacial results.
3. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Shielding your skin from the sun is essential after a treatment because it’s more vulnerable to UV rays, so you’ll apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and avoid sun exposure for at least 48 hours.
Doing so helps prevent sunburn and protects your skin from damage that may bring on premature aging. If you’re outside for a few hours, periodically reapply the sunscreen to ensure you have consistent protection, and consider wearing a hat or staying in shady spots to get an extra layer of defense.
4. Hold Off on Physical Activity
Wait at least 24 hours before doing any intense physical activity. because sweat may make your freshly treated skin irritated, causing breakouts or redness. Giving your skin a short break will help it recover better while keeping you comfortable.
Light activity is fine, but don’t do anything that will cause heavy sweating or overheating. Once the first couple of days pass, you can ease back into your routine, feeling confident that your skin is protected and calm.
5. Make Sure You Hydrate Inside and Out
Keeping your skin hydrated will help you enjoy the best HydraFacial results, and drinking plenty of water will help keep your skin’s elasticity so it looks refreshed and plump. Pair this with a light layer of nourishing moisturizer to support your skin’s natural skin barrier once or twice a day, usually morning and evening.
6. Avoid Using Hot Water
Stick to using lukewarm water when you wash your face to prevent irritation and dryness because hot water will strip your skin of essential oils, and this may make it feel uncomfortable and tight. Lukewarm water is gentle and won’t impact your skin’s moisture balance, helping keep it hydrated and soft. Additionally, when you dry your face, gently pat it with a soft towel instead of rubbing it to reduce unnecessary friction.
7. Stick to Gentle Cleansers After Treatment
Use hydrating, gentle skincare products and cleansers to keep your skin calm and balanced for at least a day after your treatment. Since your skin will be more sensitive, avoid any cleaners that might strip away the moisture.
Use a non-irritating, mild formula that cleanses your skin without drying it out and is designed to lock in hydration. Doing so will help you keep the fresh, smooth feel from the HydraFacial and preserve its results.
8. Resist the Urge to Pick at Your Skin
Don’t scratch, pick, or mess with your skin after your treatment, and it’s also important to avoid tweezing, waxing, threading, or any beauty treatments like this for at least 48 hours after the HydraFacial.
Your skin is in a delicate state, and it needs time to heal without adding more stress. Touching or picking at it will introduce bacteria, and this increases the chances of breakouts. Removing hair can be too harsh and may leave your skin inflamed and red.
9. Avoid Chlorinated Pools for a Few Days
Don’t swim in chlorinated water for at least 48 hours after your HydraFacial. Chlorine is a strong chemical that produces a drying effect, and it may irritate your freshly treated skin. If you decide to swim, put on a thin layer of fragrance-free, gentle moisturizer beforehand to protect your skin from the chlorine.
10. Schedule Regular HydraFacials
Scheduling regular HydraFacial appointments will help you maintain smooth, glowing skin. Consistent sessions give your skin a boost each time you have them, helping with the texture and appearance. Depending on your goals and skin type, scheduling a session every four to six weeks will give you optimal results.
Regular treatments will also help address concerns like fine lines, dullness, or an uneven skin tone, ensuring your skin looks its best. Remember that each situation is unique, and your doctor will recommend scheduling consistencies that match your wants and skin type or tone.
Get Glowing Skin with Simple HydraFacial Aftercare Tips from Capizzi, MD
HydraFacial aftercare is key to getting long-lasting results. With a few mindful steps, you’ll help keep your skin hydrated, balanced, and clear so it glows. If you’re thinking about enhancing your skincare routine or have questions about the best approach for your skin, contact us to schedule a consultation. At Capizzi, MD, we have an expert team ready to address any concerns and help you decide if a HydraFacial treatment is right for you and your skin type.