Are you thinking about getting your first facial? It’s normal to feel a bit nervous. Even though a facial may seem daunting, the process doesn’t have to be! 

Are you thinking about getting your first facial? It’s normal to feel a bit nervous. Even though a facial may seem daunting, the process doesn’t have to be! 
 
WHY SHOULD IGET A FACIAL?
We all have that one lucky friend who, having never had a facial in her life, has flawless-looking skin. And while facials are not a mandatory skincare ritual for everyone, they can certainly help improve the look and feel of your skin, especially if it’s congested. 
Most facials typically start with thorough cleansing and steaming, and end with extractions performed by a licensed professional. There are additional facial procedures out there that go beyond the routine cleansing, steaming, and extractions. These include chemical peels, laser facials, light facials, and more. If this is your first facial, we recommend sticking to the basics to see how your skin reacts. All going well you could talk to your dermatologist about what type of treatment is right for you and your skin.
WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?  
Once you get the green light from your dermatologist, you’re ready to get started. If you’re feeling apprehensive, that’s normal. After all, just the words “chemical peel” sound daunting. But you will be relieved to know that the process is not as extreme as you may imagine. Let’s break it down, starting with why it’s called “chemical” to begin with. 
Physical exfoliation is when a tool is used to remove build-up, while chemical exfoliation is a way for the build-up to be dissolved. Think of your beady scrubs and grains as your physical exfoliators, and your skin acids as your chemical exfoliators. A chemical peel is a form of exfoliation where the surface skin is broken down to allow products to work better, oxygen to flow thoroughly through pores, and address ageing and/or pigment concerns.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A FACIAL?
There’s not much you need to do to prepare for a facial, but there are a few products you should consider setting aside until after you meet with your dermatologist. It is important not to use retinol or any other product that dries out your skin. These products can make your skin more sensitive to facials. If you are using a retinol or a product formulated with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, take a break from them in your routine as your facial approaches. This can help reduce any unwanted sensitivity and ensure your facial is as comfortable as possible. 
WHO IS THE RIGHT CANDIDATE FOR A FACIAL?
Contrary to popular belief, facials aren’t exclusive to acne-prone or mature skin types. Everyone should take the time to remove pore-clogging skin impurities, regardless of age or skin type. Just be sure to talk to your dermatologist first to see what’s right for you. 
WHAT DO I DO AFTER A FACIAL?
After your first facial, there are a few do’s and don’ts to follow. First things first, allow your skin to breathe and soak in any products applied during the service. Avoid wearing makeup for at least one day after your facial. If your skin appears irritated, cool it down with a hydrating mist. 
Another important post-facial step is to stay out of direct sunlight and wear a high factor SPF and a hat before heading outdoors. Whether you received a chemical peel or not, facials can make your skin sensitive to sunlight. The last thing you want after your skin-enhancing facial is to cause damage. 
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET A FACIAL?
Typically, getting a facial once a month is ideal but speak to your therapist about your skin and go from there.
Written by Laura Doyle staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.lovelifeandlittleones.com.