Best Prep and Post Care – Maximizing Your Treatment Results
While Hydrafacial is a non-invasive and gentle treatment, what you do afterward plays a big role in preserving the results. Proper aftercare helps lock in hydration, protect your skin barrier, and extend your skin’s refreshed appearance for as long as possible.
This page is your go-to guide for aftercare. From product recommendations to activity restrictions, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do (and avoid) to maintain that smooth, luminous glow.
“Your skin is most receptive to nourishment after a Hydrafacial—treat it well and it will show.”
Treatment Preparation and Aftercare Timeline
3 to 7 Days Before (Preparation)
Although Hydrafacial doesn’t require extensive preparation, setting the stage with the right products and habits can improve your aftercare results.- Avoid using retinol, glycolic acid, or other strong exfoliants for at least 3 days before your appointment to minimize the risk of sensitivity.
- Begin using a gentle, hydrating cleanser and fragrance-free moisturizer to prep your skin.
- If you’re planning to spend time in the sun, make sure you’re applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to avoid any sunburn prior to treatment.
- It’s also a good idea to stock up on essential aftercare items like mineral sunscreen, a non-comedogenic moisturizer, and a calming serum. This way, you’re fully equipped to support your skin immediately after your Hydrafacial without scrambling for products last minute.
Treatment Day (What to Expect)
- After your Hydrafacial session, your provider will likely apply a nourishing serum and broad-spectrum sunscreen to seal in hydration and protect your skin.
- Your skin may feel exceptionally clean and appear more radiant than usual.
- It's crucial not to touch your face for the rest of the day to prevent introducing bacteria or irritating the freshly exfoliated surface.
- Try to postpone from applying any makeup for the remainder of the day to allow your skin to fully absorb the benefits of the treatment.
- Avoid direct sun exposure, saunas, steam rooms, or any form of strenuous exercise that could cause sweating or heat buildup on your skin.
1 to 7 Days After (Immediate Aftercare)
- This is the most sensitive period post-Hydrafacial. Your skin is highly receptive and may feel a little tight or flushed.
- Stick with a minimalist skincare routine: cleanse with a sulfate-free, gentle face wash, apply a hydrating serum (hyaluronic acid is ideal), and finish with a calming moisturizer.
- Sunscreen should be applied every morning, even if you’re indoors, as your skin is more vulnerable to UV damage during this time.
- Avoid any skincare products containing retinol, vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or exfoliating enzymes. Let your skin rest and recover naturally.
- Keep showers lukewarm and avoid aggressive towel drying—pat your skin gently instead.
7 to 14 Days (Ongoing Aftercare)
- By this point, your skin should feel fully recovered. If your skin responds well, you can gradually reintroduce active ingredients like vitamin C or mild exfoliants, but only one at a time.
- Always test new products slowly and discontinue use if irritation occurs. Continue focusing on hydration and protection as your skin adjusts.
- This is also a great time to evaluate how your skin has responded to the treatment.
- If you loved the glow, consider setting a routine schedule—most clients benefit from a Hydrafacial every 4 to 6 weeks for long-term skin improvement.
3 to 6 Months (Long-Term Maintenance)
- To maintain that radiant, smooth skin over the long term, stay consistent with monthly Hydrafacial appointments.
- Think of it as a reset button for your skin—removing buildup, deep cleaning pores, and restoring hydration each time.
- Between sessions, use antioxidant-rich serums to combat environmental stressors and maintain your glow.
- Keep a balanced skincare routine with ingredients tailored to your skin goals, such as niacinamide for brightening or peptides for firmness.
- Continue daily SPF application and avoid lifestyle habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption that can dull your skin’s appearance.
Customized Aftercare Based on Boosters and Perks
While the general aftercare for Hydrafacial remains consistent—gentle skincare, hydration, and sun protection—your post-treatment routine may vary slightly depending on the booster or perk used during your session. For instance, if your treatment included a brightening booster like ZO Brightalive, it’s crucial to limit sun exposure and maintain a strong SPF regimen to prevent pigmentation. Similarly, eye or lip Perk treatments target more delicate areas, requiring milder, nourishing products and avoidance of exfoliants or active ingredients. At Albany Cosmetic and Laser Centre, we tailor your aftercare plan to match your personalized Hydrafacial protocol for the best possible results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exercise after a the treatment?
It’s best to wait at least 24 hours before any intense workouts to prevent irritation and sweating that could disrupt your skin’s healing.
What products should I avoid after a treatment?
Avoid exfoliants, retinol, acne treatments, and any harsh ingredients for at least 48 hours post-treatment.
How soon can I wear makeup?
Wait 24 hours before applying makeup to allow your skin to fully benefit from the Hydrafacial serums and avoid congestion.
Is redness normal after the treatment?
Mild redness is normal and usually subsides within a few hours. It’s a sign of increased blood flow and hydration in the skin.
Can I go out in the sun?
Yes, but only with SPF 30 or higher. Your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays for a few days, so apply sunscreen and wear a hat if possible.
Should I moisturize right after a Hydrafacial?
Absolutely. A hydrating, fragrance-free moisturizer helps lock in the benefits and prevents dryness or tightness.
