Achieving glowing skin isn’t just about booking a cosmetic treatment—it’s also about how to prep your skin for the best beauty treatment results. Proper preparation ensures optimal results, speeds up the healing process, and helps maintain overall skin health.
Whether you’re getting a facial treatment, laser treatment, or injectable treatment, following the right steps can enhance collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture. Experts like clinictwenty2.co.uk offer tailored treatments and skincare advice to help you achieve the best results.
Here’s how to prepare your skin for your next aesthetic treatment.
1. Assess Your Skin Type and Concerns
Before any skin treatments, it’s essential to understand your skin type and any specific skin concerns you may have. Different treatments work best for different needs:
- Dry skin benefits from extra skin hydration using hyaluronic acid and shea butter.
- Oily or acne-prone skin should avoid excess oils and opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic skincare products.
- Sensitive skin may require a gentler skincare regime to prevent irritation.
If you’re unsure, a skincare professional can give you the best advice on how to prep based on your skin’s needs.
2. Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine in the Weeks Leading Up to Treatment
In the weeks leading up to your appointment, keep your skincare routine simple and nourishing. Avoid harsh ingredients that can strip the skin barrier and cause irritation. Instead, focus on regular facials, hydration, and gentle exfoliation to promote skin renewal and cell turnover.
Best Ingredients to Use Before a Treatment:
- Hyaluronic acid – Keeps your skin hydrated and skin supple.
- Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid – Help protect against sun damage and even out skin tone.
- Mandelic acid – A mild exfoliant that promotes skin renewal without irritation.
Ingredients to Avoid Right Before Treatment:
- Beta hydroxy acids (BHA), such as salicylic acid – Can increase sensitivity.
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), such as lactic acid – May over-exfoliate and weaken the skin barrier.
- Retinol and harsh exfoliants – Can cause excessive peeling and irritation.
3. Exfoliate Gently to Remove Dead Skin Cells
A few days before your cosmetic procedure, exfoliate lightly to create a smooth base for treatment. Removing dead skin cells improves the absorption of active ingredients and helps your skin care products work better.
However, avoid excessive scrubbing or strong acids, as these can increase irritation, particularly before a laser treatment or injectable treatment.
4. Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Proper skin hydration is essential for healthy skin and a smoother healing process. In the days before your treatment:
- Drink plenty of water to support blood flow and skin’s ability to repair.
- Use a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid to retain moisture.
- Apply a rich moisturiser with shea butter if your skin tends to dry out.
This ensures your skin soft and prepped for optimal absorption of active ingredients during your treatment.
5. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Avoid extended periods of sun exposure before your appointment, especially if you’re getting a laser treatment or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.
How to Prevent Sun Damage:
- Use sun protection with SPF 30+ daily.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses if you’ll be outdoors.
- Avoid tanning beds, as they increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
If your skin is sunburnt or irritated, you may need to reschedule your appointment to prevent complications.
6. Skip Makeup on the Day of Treatment
Arriving with clean skin ensures your therapist can work effectively. A proper double cleanse removes makeup, sunscreen, and excess oils, preventing clogged pores and irritation.
If you need to wear makeup before your appointment, bring a gentle cleanser to remove it beforehand.
7. Avoid Waxing or Shaving Right Before Certain Treatments
Hair removal can make your skin more sensitive, so avoid it before treatments like:
- Chemical peels
- Microdermabrasion
- Laser treatments
For laser hair removal, your therapist will advise when to shave, usually 24 hours before, but waxing should be avoided entirely.
8. Eat Well and Avoid Alcohol or Caffeine
Your diet affects your skin health. Before your treatment:
- Eat nutrient-rich foods that support collagen production and cell turnover.
- Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, as they can dehydrate your skin and slow healing.
9. Prepare for Aftercare
Planning ahead ensures a smooth post-treatment recovery. Aftercare depends on your aesthetic treatment, but common recommendations include:
- Avoid excessive heat, including saunas and hot showers.
- Use soothing skincare products, such as fragrance-free moisturisers.
- Skip exfoliants and active ingredients until your skin heals.
Ask your skincare professional for the best skin care products to use after your treatment.
Final Thoughts
To get the best results from your skin treatments, take the time to prep your skin properly. Following a gentle skincare routine, protecting against sun exposure, and ensuring good skin hydration can enhance your skin’s ability to heal and glow.
A little preparation can make a big difference in achieving natural beauty, smoother skin texture, and a more radiant skin tone. If you’re unsure, always check with a skincare professional for personalised advice.
