Facial Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts for the Best Spa Experience

Facials are a luxurious and beneficial way to care for your skin, offering deep cleansing, hydration, and relaxation. Whether you’re a spa regular or a first-timer, following proper facial etiquette ensures you get the most out of your treatment while also respecting your esthetician’s time and expertise.

Here’s everything you need to know about what to do and what to avoid before, during, and after your facial.

Before Your Facial: The Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO: Arrive With a Clean Face (If Possible)

While your esthetician will cleanse your skin at the beginning of the treatment, arriving with minimal or no makeup can help them assess your skin better. This is especially important if you wear heavy foundation or waterproof mascara, which can take longer to remove.

✅ DO: Know Your Skin Concerns

Take note of any specific skin issues you’d like to address, such as dryness, acne, sensitivity, or hyperpigmentation. Communicating these concerns beforehand helps your esthetician customize the treatment to your needs.

✅ DO: Hydrate and Eat Lightly

Drinking water before your facial helps keep your skin hydrated from within. Also, eat a light meal to avoid feeling too full or uncomfortable during the treatment.

❌ DON’T: Exfoliate Right Before Your Appointment

Over-exfoliating can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation. Since most facials include some form of exfoliation, it’s best to skip any scrubs, peels, or strong exfoliating treatments at home for at least 48 hours before your facial.

❌ DON’T: Get a Facial Right After Waxing or Laser Treatments

Waxing, threading, or laser hair removal can leave your skin irritated and sensitive. Avoid getting a facial at least 48 hours after these treatments to prevent excessive redness and discomfort.

❌ DON’T: Sunbathe or Use Tanning Beds

Sun exposure can make your skin more sensitive and prone to damage. Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds at least a few days before your facial to prevent post-treatment irritation.

During Your Facial: Proper Spa Etiquette

✅ DO: Communicate With Your Esthetician

Let your esthetician know about any skin sensitivities, allergies, or discomfort during the treatment. If a product feels too strong or if extractions become too painful, don’t hesitate to speak up.

✅ DO: Relax and Enjoy the Experience

Facials are designed to be both effective and relaxing. Try to unwind, breathe deeply, and trust your esthetician to take care of your skin.

❌ DON’T: Talk Excessively (Unless Necessary)

While small talk is fine, facials are meant to be relaxing, and too much conversation can disrupt the experience. If your esthetician initiates a conversation, feel free to chat, but don’t feel pressured to fill the silence.

❌ DON’T: Touch Your Face

Your esthetician’s hands are clean, and they are using sanitized tools. Keep your hands off your face to avoid transferring bacteria or disrupting the treatment.

After Your Facial: Post-Treatment Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO: Follow Your Esthetician’s Aftercare Advice

Your esthetician will recommend specific products and skincare tips based on your treatment. Follow their guidance to maintain your results and avoid irritation.

✅ DO: Wear Sunscreen

After a facial, your skin is more sensitive to the sun. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from damage and hyperpigmentation.

✅ DO: Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and keeps your skin looking plump and radiant post-facial.

❌ DON’T: Apply Heavy Makeup Immediately After

Give your skin time to breathe and absorb all the benefits of the facial. If possible, wait at least 24 hours before applying foundation or heavy makeup.

❌ DON’T: Pick at Your Skin

If you had extractions, your skin might have some redness or small blemishes healing. Avoid touching, picking, or popping anything to prevent scarring or infection.

❌ DON’T: Use Harsh Skincare Products

Skip strong exfoliants, retinoids, or acids for at least 48 hours post-facial. Your skin needs time to recover and may be more sensitive than usual.

Final Thoughts

Facials are a great way to rejuvenate your skin, but how you prepare and care for your skin before and after the treatment makes all the difference. By following these simple facial etiquette tips, you’ll ensure a smoother experience, better results, and healthier skin.

Ready to book your next facial? Follow these do’s and don’ts, and you’ll walk out glowing and refreshed!