What Estheticians Wish You Knew Before Booking a Facial

As a licensed esthetician with 13 years of experience, I've seen numerous clients walk through my door with questions, misconceptions, and sometimes anxiety about what to expect.

So today, I want to clear up some of the biggest myths and give you a better idea of what really happens pre and post professional treatment.

Unlike what you see on Tiktok, professional facials provide real results coming from experience, education, and a plan that’s made just for you.

Here are some myths I've heard over the years:

Myth #1: "Facials will make me break out"

Professional treatments  are meant to improve your skin, not make it worse. What some people mistake for "breaking out" is  a natural purging process that brings deep impurities to the surface.

Myth #2: "All facials are the same"

Every facial is tailored to your skin type, concerns, and goals. A facial for treating acne will look very different from one focused on hydration or brightening. Each treatment is selected and modified based on a thorough skin analysis.

Myth #3: "I can get the same results at home"

Professional facials use medical-grade products, advanced tools, and expert techniques that go far beyond DIY care. These deliver deeper, more effective results.

Myth #4 : "If it doesn’t sting or burn, it’s not working."

Effective skincare should never cause pain, burning, or significant discomfort. When products or treatments cause stinging or burning, it's often a sign of irritation, damage to your skin barrier, or an allergic reaction - not efficiency.

Myth #5 : "Facials are only for women."

Skin doesn’t care about gender. Men also deal with clogged pores, dryness, irritation from shaving, and signs of aging just like anyone else. 

Pre-Facial Care Tips

The secret to getting the most out of your facial is in how you treat your skin before and after.

Avoid using exfoliants, retinol, or any strong active ingredients for at least 72 hours before your facial to avoid making your skin more sensitive. 

You should also avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning.

Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face if possible, and be ready to share your current skincare routine and any recent changes in your skin.

Avoid using new skincare products in the few days leading to your facial. 

Post-Facial Care Tips

After a facial, your skin is more sensitive to sun exposure and harsh products, so proper care is really important during this stage.

For the first 24–48 hours, avoid heavy makeup, exfoliants, retinol, and any strong active ingredients. Skip hot showers, saunas, and sweaty workouts, as heat can irritate the skin. 

Use a gentle moisturizer to lock in all the benefits of your treatment and don't forget to use your sunscreen!

 Why Professional Treatments Beat Tiktok Hacks

#1 Safety and Expertise

Licensed estheticians go through in-depth training to understand how skin really works, what products do on a chemical level, and how to treat it safely. They know how to spot when something isn’t right for your skin and can adjust treatments to to fit to your needs.

# 2 Professional-Grade Products

The skincare products used in professional treatments are made with higher concentrations of active ingredients and are designed to deliver real results. They're thoroughly tested for safety and effectiveness

#3 Customized Approach

Professional estheticians take the time to understand your skin’s specific needs and craft a treatment plan that’s truly personalized for you.

#4 Proper Technique and Tools

Professional facial tools require special training to use safely and get the best results. Using DIY versions without the right know-how can actually cause skin damage, scarring, or even infections.

# 5 Long-term Results

TikTok hacks might give you quick, surface-level results, but professional treatments target the root cause of your skin concerns leaving real results