From light to more involved
One useful way to think about skin treatments is by how far they go. At the lighter end are facials: cleansing, exfoliation, masks and massage, done by hand. Next come chemical peels, which range from mild surface peels to stronger formulas that need more aftercare. Microneedling sits further along, since a device makes tiny controlled punctures in the skin. Light-based treatments use energy from a device and are set by the provider for each person.
This scale is rough. A strong facial can be more involved than a mild peel. The point is that skin treatments differ a lot in depth, and a licensed provider is the person to say which level, if any, makes sense for you.
Things to mention even if nobody asks
Some details are easy to forget at a consultation but matter for skin treatments. Mention them to the provider:
- a history of cold sores, since some treatments can trigger them
- raised or thick scars from past injuries
- any recent waxing, threading or hair removal cream on the area
- a peel, laser or microneedling session elsewhere in recent months
- new skin care products, especially strong acids or vitamin A creams
- a planned vacation in the sun soon after
A licensed provider uses these to decide what is suitable and when.
Getting ready for a skin consultation
A little preparation makes a skin consultation more useful. Before you go:
- Write down what you want to ask about, in your own words.
- List your medicines, creams and supplements, with doses if you know them.
- Note any past peels, facials, microneedling or light treatments, and roughly when.
- Write down any reactions you have had to products or treatments.
- Check your calendar for events or sunny trips in the weeks ahead.
Ask the provider whether to come with a bare face or whether makeup is fine. Bring your list and your questions, and keep a pen handy for the answers.
Questions about skin treatments
How many visits do skin treatments take?
It depends on the treatment, your skin and what you want to ask about. Some people have a single facial. Peels, microneedling and light-based treatments are often planned as a series. A licensed provider can tell you what is typical for a given treatment, without promising a set number.
What if my skin reacts after a treatment?
Follow the aftercare instructions and contact the provider who treated you. They can tell you what is expected and what is not. For pain, signs of infection, blistering or anything that worries you, see a doctor or dermatologist. This site is not a clinic and cannot give medical advice.
Should I avoid the sun before a skin treatment?
Many providers ask you to avoid tanning, sunburn and self-tanner before peels and light-based treatments, since recent sun can change what they are willing to do. Ask the office for its own instructions before your visit, and mention any recent sun at the consultation.
A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you. Send a request to begin that conversation.
Request a consultMore consultation topics
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