Dermat Shares What To Apply On Face After Facial

Getting a facial is one of the most relaxing ways to rejuvenate the skin, especially after days of heavy makeup, sleepless nights, and festive indulgences during Diwali. It thoroughly cleanses, exfoliates, and revives the face, leaving it fresh and radiant. But what we put on after our facial is just as good as the treatment itself. Post-facial care ensures the glow remains, keeps breakouts at bay, and keeps our skin barrier free from irritation. 

What To Apply On Face After Facial

So, what do you really need to use after your next salon visit?  Dr Kriti Lohia, CEO & Consultant Dermatologist, MBBS, DDVL, DABRM,  Aesthetics Redefined by Cocoona Clinic - Gurgaon, explained it to us. Read ahead to now.

1. Begin with a Light Hydrating Serum

Our skin gets more permeable and sensitive due to steaming and exfoliation after a facial. So, this is the ideal time to use a light, hydrating serum filled with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or panthenol.

"Hydration is the secret after facial. It calms the skin, replenishes moisture, and maximises the treatment effect. Steer clear of active products like retinol, AHAs, or BHAs for a minimum of 48 hours," said Dr Lohia

A hyaluronic acid serum attracts water into the skin, keeping it firm and soft without irritation.

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2. Secure It With a Lightweight Moisturiser

Exfoliation and extraction can temporarily interfere with the skin's barrier function. Aid its recovery with a non-comedogenic moisturiser that locks in moisture without causing pores to clog.

Dr Lohia recommends selecting products containing ceramides, squalane, or glycerin, which are barrier-strengthening and healing. "The aim is to feed, not burden your skin," she said.

If the skin is feeling tight or dry after the facial, try a richer cream at night, but one that contains no fragrance or harsh preservatives.

3. Don't Forget Sunscreen

Going out after the facial without sunscreen is probably the biggest mistakes you can commit. After the treatment, the skin is particularly susceptible to sun damage.

"Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen containing a minimum of SPF 30, even indoors. Sunlight immediately after a facial leads to redness, irritation, or pigmentation,” stressed Dr Lohia.

Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are best since they are mild and act as a physical block without causing any irritation to the skin.

4. Avoid the Makeup for a Day

Though it's tempting to show off thepost-facial radiance with make-up, the skin has to breathe. Putting on foundation or concealer the moment you've had a facial can clog the pores and cause breakouts.

Dr Lohia suggests taking at least 24 hours before applying any make-up products, so that your skin can heal completely. If you really have to venture out, try a tinted moisturiser or a BB cream with SPF.

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5. Avoid Harsh Products and Home Remedies

The skin may feel particularly smooth and clean, but don't take it as a sign that it can cope with harsh treatments. Stay away from scrubs, chemical exfoliants, or home remedies such as lemon juice or turmeric face masks. "They can further irritate recently treated skin. Use mild, dermatologist-recommended products for the next few days instead," she added.

6. Drink Up, Inside and Out

Facials mildly dehydrate the skin, particularly if steaming has been done. Stay well-hydrated and add water-retaining foods such as cucumber, oranges, and watermelon to the diet to get that glow from within.

Bottomline

Post-facial care controls the length of the glow. Adhere to soothing, nourishing, and protective products, and let your skin catch its breath. In the words of Dr Kriti Lohia, "Good post-facial care is like sealing in your glow, the calmer your skin, the longer it shines."