Four Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Facial

Before you hit the spa, follow these four important rules.

July 23, 2012

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Photo: CN Digital Studio
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Drink Water
"You want to avoid dehydration, especially in the summer, so drink plenty of water before and after any facial to see the best results in your skin," explains Spa Director Alejandro Ortiz, of the Rosewood Hotel in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.. "Aim for two to three liters leading up to your appointment, depending on how active you've been."
Photo: courtesy of Neutrogena
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Don't Go Burnt
"Avoid facials if you have any sort of sunburn. While the skin can use the pampering, ingredients in facials can penetrate burnt skin deeply, adding to irritation."
Neutrogena Ultra-Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, $8. Neutrogena.com

Photo: courtesy of Walgreens
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Prep Your Aesthetician
"Write down on the registration form you get or let the aesthetician know of any allergies you have—even seasonal allergies—and describe any reactions you’ve had to cosmetics. Also, describe any medications you’re on, including topical treatments such as retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids. And definitely let your aesthetician know if you’ve had a bad reaction to a product in the past.
Walgreens Alpha-Hydroxy Face Cream, $6. Walgreens.com
Photo: courtesy of Lilly Pulitzer
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Plan in Advance
"Avoid facials on the day of a big event, unless you regularly have facials and know what to expect. Facials can occasionally cause temporary redness or irritation, and you don’t want to look blotchy. Schedule your appointment at least three days in advance, but a week would be even better."
Lilly Pulitzer Soft Cover Agenda, $26. Lillypulitzer.com