May 28, 2026 · 4 min read
At-Home Prep and Aftercare: Get More from Every Facial
What you do in the week before and the 72 hours after your facial determines half your result. Here's the exact routine.
By Sarah Thompson · Licensed Medical Esthetician · 14 years
Five days before
Stop all retinoids, AHA/BHA serums, physical scrubs and exfoliating wipes. Continue sunscreen daily. Hydrate aggressively.
Day of
Arrive with bare skin where possible. Skip the workout sauna. Bring a list of any new prescription medications - they affect what's safe.
First 72 hours after
No retinoids, acids, or exfoliants. Double-cleanse gently each evening, layer hyaluronic acid and barrier ceramides, and double down on SPF 30+ every morning. Skip the sauna and hot yoga for 24 hours.
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