3 Things To Do Before & After A Facial To Maximize The Benefits 

Facials are an investment, but IMO, they're 100% worth the pretty penny. You can splurge on all of the potent topicals you please, but at the end of the day, nothing compares to the guidance from expert-level hands (the massage alone is reason enough to book a treatment). An esthetician spends time with your skin in a very meaningful way, so you can figure out exactly what products, techniques, etc., will give you the best possible outcome. 

That's not to say you must carve time for a facial every single month. If it's within your budget, the pros generally recommend booking a treatment whenever the seasons change (so two to four times a year), but because each service typically comes with a steep price tag, you might be wondering how to maintain the benefits for as long as possible. And who better to ask than an influential esthetician to the stars? 

Some treatments should always be left to the pros (like extractions or microneedling), but if you want to replicate those services at home, Darden recommends splurging on a hi-tech tool. Think microcurrent devices, LED masks, and sculpting rollers and wands. Of course, an esthetician might use a stronger, professional-grade gadget during a facial, but these at-home tools can still yield amazing results in between sessions. 

For example, "I've used vibration therapy in all of my facials for years, so I wanted to develop a device to get those same benefits at home," Darden shares. "My Facial Sculpting Wand uses acoustic soundwaves to target wrinkles below the skin's surface, along with boosting circulation for smoother, firmer, more glowing skin. I love to use mine around my eyes especially to help lift the eyes and offset any puffiness." 

At mbg, we often say getting a facial is a lot like seeing a nutritionist or personal trainer; a professional can help you meet your various goals, but it's still up to you to put in the everyday work. You can't completely ignore your diet and workout regimen at home and expect any miraculous changes! The same goes for skin care. 

Darden agrees: "The most important thing to remember is how important it is to maintain a dedicated home care routine," she says. "If you're not using the right products for your skin consistently, the results of a facial won't last as long."

Everyone has a different lineup, but your esthetician should help you come up with a sustainable, long-term plan. After all, appointments are usually an hour or more, so they can really spend time with your skin and address any concerns or goals you have. They'll often suggest certain products or ingredients that will work with your skin type and even offer up a sample routine for you to follow—usually featuring some sort of targeted active, like vitamin C, AHAs, or other antioxidants.

Again, everyone's skin is different, but Darden often recommends folding in a retinol to encourage cell turnover and keep the skin firm and bright. "I always recommend that my clients use Retinol Reform at night to maintain the benefits of a facial," she notes regarding her star formula. 

OK, we just said keeping up with targeted actives is key for long-term results, but for the first few days before and after your treatment, you'll want to pare back your regimen. No matter which type of facial you get, it will provide a pretty deep clean, so you want to keep your routine gentle and nourishing to avoid stripping your skin barrier raw.