Indeed, there’s something particular about an expected wedding, birthday or significant occasion that makes you pay special attention to your skin. Suddenly, your go-to skincare routine doesn’t seem quite enough, and you’re seeking out treatments that guarantee a fresher, more radiant appearance.
One of the items that often appears on pre-event beauty checklists is an oxygen facial. It is often selected by those who want their skin to appear refreshed without going through an intensive procedure and is known for its mild approach and emphasis on hydration.
But before scheduling an appointment, there are a couple of things to know. A little planning and preparation can make the journey more worthwhile, whether it’s knowing what your skin could actually look like afterwards or just picking the right date.
Read this guide to learn more.
Timing Your Facial Is More Important Than You Think
One of the biggest questions before a special occasion is when to schedule your facial. It may seem logical to get an oxygen facial on your event day to have the freshest results. However, your skin’s response isn’t always predictable, particularly if you’ve never tried the treatment before. Overall, oxygen facials are considered safe but certain products used in the facial treatment may cause temporary redness, irritation, or sensitivity in some individuals.
Therefore, if it’s your first appointment, consider trying the treatment several weeks before your event. This way, you can gauge your skin’s response without the risk of an unwanted reaction. Once you know the treatment suits your skin, your dermatologist can help you decide when to schedule another session.
Know What Oxygen Facial Can Do
When you see all the flawless photos on social media after an oxygen facial, it’s easy to think this is a one-stop solution that will instantly make your skin look flawless. But knowledge of the treatment provides a more realistic expectation. The basic process of an oxygen facial is the application of oxygen under pressure to the skin, often combined with serums that hydrate the skin. The exact technique and products vary between clinics. The treatment may leave your skin feeling hydrated and looking temporarily smoother or more refreshed.
Keep in mind that Oxygen facials are not meant to remove pigmentation or treat heavy acne scars or deep wrinkles permanently. Therefore, for those with persistent pigmentation, acne or any other skin condition, you might need a different method. Knowing the difference will help you avoid the disappointment of finding photos that don’t look like the heavily altered “before” and “after” shots.
Your Skin Type Should Influence the Treatment
Not every oxygen facial involves exactly the same products, and not every formulation suits every skin type. For instance, if you suffer from dry skin, you’ll need a different mix of products than if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Similarly, sensitive skin deserves particular attention. If you have recurrent sensitivity to perfume, exfoliants or new cosmetics, let your doctor know before the appointment. Also, include any skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or if the skin is currently irritated. While an oxygen facial might be mild in comparison to some resurfacing treatments, not all facial serums or ingredients are best for sensitive skin. Therefore, inquire with your dermatologist what products are being used and if any ingredients might cause irritation. A dermatologist can assist in deciding if this treatment is right for you if you have had a history of allergic reactions.
Your Post-Facial Routine Can Affect How Your Skin Looks Later
Once you’ve had your oxygen facial, the temptation may be to add more skincare products to enhance the results. But simplicity is often the preferable route to take. Adhere to the aftercare guidelines given by your dermatologist, especially when you had been treated with active ingredients.
- Continue using a suitable moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Don’t try new products right before your event if you have sensitive skin.
- If you’re planning to wear makeup, ask when it’s appropriate to apply it after your treatment.
Remember, hydrated skin can provide a smoother-looking surface for makeup, but an oxygen facial doesn’t guarantee that every foundation will apply perfectly. The rest of your makeup, skincare routine, application and maintenance appointments still count.