How to Prepare for a Facial for the Best Results
A professional facial is one of the best investments you can make for your skin. Whether you're coming in for deep pore cleansing, hydration, acne treatment, or anti-aging care, a little preparation can help you get the most out of your appointment.
At authentic skin, every facial is customized to your skin's unique needs. By following a few simple steps before your visit, you'll help ensure your skin is ready to receive the full benefits of your treatment.
1. Keep Your Skincare Routine Gentle
In the days leading up to your facial, avoid introducing new skincare products. If you've recently started using strong active ingredients, your skin may be more sensitive than usual.
To help prevent irritation, pause the following for 2–3 days before your appointment unless your esthetician has advised otherwise:
Retinol or prescription retinoids
Strong exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA)
Physical scrubs
Benzoyl peroxide (if it causes dryness or irritation)
Keeping your routine simple allows your skin to arrive calm and balanced.
2. Stay Hydrated
Healthy, hydrated skin responds better to professional treatments. Drinking plenty of water before your appointment supports your skin's natural function and can enhance your overall results.
Hydration starts from within, so aim to drink water consistently—not just on the day of your facial.
3. Protect Your Skin From the Sun
If you've recently experienced a sunburn or excessive sun exposure, let your esthetician know before your appointment. Sunburned skin is already inflamed and may not tolerate certain treatments.
Daily sunscreen helps protect your skin and keeps it in its healthiest condition before and after your facial.
4. Avoid Waxing or Aggressive Hair Removal
If you're planning facial waxing, threading, or other hair removal treatments, try not to schedule them immediately before your facial. Freshly waxed skin is more delicate and may become irritated during treatment.
If you have questions about timing, we're happy to recommend the best schedule.
5. Arrive With Clean Skin (If Possible)
There's no need to scrub your face before your appointment—we'll thoroughly cleanse your skin as part of your facial. However, arriving with minimal makeup can make the consultation and skin analysis a little easier.
Don't worry if you're coming from work. We always begin with a professional cleanse.
6. Share Your Skin Concerns
The consultation is one of the most important parts of your appointment.
Let your esthetician know about:
Changes in your skin
Allergies or sensitivities
Current skincare products
Prescription medications
Recent cosmetic procedures
Your skincare goals
The more we know, the better we can personalize your treatment.
7. Don't Plan Important Events Immediately After
While many clients leave with a healthy glow, deep extractions or advanced treatments can cause temporary redness that usually fades within a few hours.
If you have a wedding, photoshoot, or other special event, it's usually best to schedule your facial several days beforehand so your skin has time to look its absolute best.
What to Expect During Your Facial
Every facial at authentic skin begins with a professional skin analysis. Rather than following the same routine for every client, we evaluate your skin's condition on the day of your appointment and customize your treatment accordingly.
Depending on your skin's needs, your facial may include:
Deep cleansing
Gentle exfoliation
Meticulous extractions
Hydrating or calming masks
Facial massage
LED light therapy
Microcurrent or other advanced modalities
Personalized finishing products
No two facials are exactly alike because no two clients have the same skin.
After Your Facial
Your skin continues to benefit from your treatment long after you leave.
For the first 24–48 hours, we generally recommend:
Wearing sunscreen every day
Avoiding excessive heat, saunas, and steam rooms
Skipping harsh exfoliants and retinol
Keeping your skin well moisturized
Following the personalized home care recommendations provided during your visit
These simple steps help maintain your results and support healthy skin.
Personalized Care Makes the Difference
Preparing for a facial doesn't have to be complicated. Small steps before your appointment can help your skin respond even better to professional treatment.
At authentic skin in Chicago, we believe every facial should be tailored to the individual—not just the skin type. Our goal is to understand your skin, address your concerns, and create a treatment plan that delivers healthy, long-lasting results.
Whether you're scheduling your very first facial or maintaining your skin year-round, we're here to help you achieve your healthiest, most radiant skin.