HydraFacial Aftercare Instructions

Before your first HydraFacial

• Tell me about any recent injectables (such as filler or neuromodulators), medications, allergies, or skin conditions.
• Tell me before treatment if you have any of the following, as your treatment may need to be adjusted, delayed, or avoided: an active acne flare, open sores, sunburn, eczema, a rosacea flare, or any active skin infection in the treatment area; an active or recent cold sore outbreak; a history of keloids or raised (hypertrophic) scars; recent use of oral isotretinoin (for example, Accutane); known allergies to skincare ingredients; pregnancy or breastfeeding (some add-on serums may be avoided); a bleeding disorder or use of blood-thinning medication; or an autoimmune or inflammatory skin condition.

Two to four weeks before

• Protect your skin from the sun. Avoid tanning beds and excessive sun exposure, and wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every day. Sunburned or freshly tanned skin should not be treated. If you have a darker skin tone, sun protection is especially important, because it lowers the chance of dark spots or uneven pigmentation after treatment.
• Keep up a gentle skincare routine. A mild cleanser and a good moisturizer help prepare your skin. If I have recommended ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, or a lightening agent for your skin type, continue using them as directed.

Five to seven days before

• Stop strong exfoliating products. Pause retinoids and retinol (such as tretinoin or adapalene), glycolic or salicylic acid products, benzoyl peroxide, and any at-home peels or scrubs. These can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.
• Avoid other facial procedures. Do not schedule chemical peels, laser treatments, microdermabrasion, or waxing on the treatment area in the days leading up to your HydraFacial.

Two to three days before

• Limit blood-thinning substances if medically safe for you. Alcohol, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) can increase sensitivity and minor bruising from suction. Do not stop any prescribed medication — including prescribed aspirin or blood thinners — without checking with the doctor who prescribed it.
• If you are prone to cold sores (herpes) around the mouth, tell me in advance. You may need a preventive medication before treatment.

The day of your treatment

• Arrive with clean skin. Come with a freshly washed face and no makeup if possible. We will cleanse your skin again before starting.
• Skip irritating products that morning. Do not apply retinoids, acids, or exfoliating products.

First 24 to 48 hours

The first several days to one week

• Protect from the sun every day. Your skin is more sensitive to sunlight now. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) each morning and reapply during the day. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and avoid direct sun and tanning beds. This is one of the most important steps for preventing dark spots and keeping your results looking their best, especially if you have a darker skin tone.
• Hold off on other facial treatments. Wait before scheduling waxing, chemical peels, laser treatments, or microdermabrasion. Ask me about timing.
• Ease back into your routine. Reintroduce retinoids and exfoliating acids slowly once I give the go-ahead, starting a few days after treatment.

Reintroducing your normal skincare

• Once any redness or sensitivity has fully settled (typically within one to two days), you can gradually return to your regular products, one at a time, so you can spot anything that irritates your skin.