Self-care means spa care. If it’s been a while since your last trip to the spa—or you’re a proud spa newbie—there are a few things to know before (and after) you go. Pre and post skin care is a MUST if you are wanting to get the most out of your recent spa treatment. After all, no one wants to spend time and money on their complexion just to end up where they started. So, whether you plan to stop in for a routine facial, rejuvenate the look of skin with micro needling or get a whole new looking face with a chemical peel, follow these COSMEDIX tips before and after you go:
PREP
Use a Prep Skincare Kit
The best way to prep for a skin treatment is to invest in a prep skincare kit. As you probably gathered from the name, this skincare kit is specially made to help get skin ready for a facial, microneedle or chemical peel. Many prep kits feature convenient, travel-friendly products that help exfoliate dry skin, boost hydration and protect the skin from environmental stressors so that your skin is ready, set, go for your scheduled spa appointment.
PRO TIP: Though prep kits help prepare the complexion for a treatment, it is important to stop using any active ingredients right before your visit. If your skincare kit includes exfoliants, Vitamin C or Retinol, we recommend you stop using these skin care products 24-48 hours before your spa trip.
Avoid the Sun
Of course, you don’t need to hide out in the house the whole week before a spa treatment, but it is a good idea to minimize sun exposure. Sunshine can often lead to redness or general skin sensitivity, which is why it is so important to slather on a broad spectrum SPF. By cutting back on your time in the sun, you can help ensure that your complexion is ready and “unbothered” before your spa treatment.
Steer Clear of Waxing and Injections
Again, the goal before a spa treatment is to help keep skin “relaxed.” Just like the sun, it is important to skip any maintenance that might irritate the skin or cause redness—this includes waxing, fillers and Botox. So, if you are prepping you skin for the big day or an exciting event and want to get the full beauty treatment, try to reserve your cosmetic appointment 1-2 weeks before or after a facial treatment.
POST
Focus on Soothing Skincare Ingredients
Post spa treatment is all about recovery. Whether your skin is flakey from a chemical peel or a little red from extractions, help your skin hit “reset” with a gentle skincare routine that features soothing ingredients. Reach for a serum formulated with Hyaluronic Acid or antioxidants to help encourage a more even skin tone and texture, or a gentle cleanser with Sandalwood to help gently wash away impurities.
Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen is always a must, but it is a definite MUST after a chemical peel. Chemical peels work by literally shedding your outer layer of skin, which means that your new “baby skin” is even more sensitive than before. Wearing sunscreen will help protect this fresh layer and help minimize the appearance of dark spots and sun damage.
Skip the Makeup
Ideally, you should give your skin room to breathe after a trip to the spa. If you stopped in for micro needling or a chemical peel, chances are your complexion is still “healing”. It is best to let your skin indulge itself to some fresh air before going back to your regular makeup routine. And, if you must apply makeup for work or a big event, try to use lighter skin care products like BB creams or tinted moisturizers.
