HydraFacial Pre & Post Care

HydraFacial is a patented hydradermabrasion procedure that combines cleansing, extraction, and hydration in one session, resulting in clearer, more beautiful skin with minimal downtime . This medical-grade facial is suitable for all skin types and can address a range of concerns – including fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, dullness, and acne . At Opal Radiant, Dr. Punit (dermatologist and co-founder) oversees every HydraFacial treatment, ensuring it follows strict, science-backed protocols for safety and efficacy . Under Dr Punit’s expert care, your HydraFacial will be fully customised to your skin’s needs for optimal results.

HydraFacial Benefits for Various Skin Concerns

  • Dry or Dehydrated Skin: The HydraFacial deeply infuses moisture-binding serums, providing intense hydration for a plump, dewy complexion. Skin immediately appears more hydrated and supple after treatment.

  • Dullness and Uneven Tone: By exfoliating away dead cells and delivering antioxidants, HydraFacial gives an instant glow – skin looks brighter, fresher, and more even-toned right after a session . Regular treatments help maintain radiance and combat dullness.

  • Fine Lines & Texture: Gentle resurfacing and serum infusion soften the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture over time . The boost in hydration can also plump up fine lines and wrinkles temporarily , while antioxidants support collagen for longer-term texture improvements.

  • Acne-Prone & Congested Skin: Vacuum-assisted extractions clear out clogged pores, blackheads, and oil without harsh squeezing . This helps reduce breakouts and congestion. HydraFacial is acne-safe – it can even be done on active mild acne, as it cleanses and calms the skin without irritation when performed correctly .

  • Hyperpigmentation: The combination of gentle exfoliation and infusion of brightening agents (like vitamin C and peptides) can, over multiple sessions, fade the look of dark spots and sun damage . Patients often notice a more even complexion and reduced hyperpigmentation with regular HydraFacials.

  • Sensitive Skin: Unlike abrasive peels, HydraFacial is a non-irritating, customizable treatment. It’s gentle enough for sensitive or redness-prone skin when overseen by experienced professionals . Dr. Punit’s team tailors the strength of the serums and suction to ensure sensitive skin is soothed, not aggravated, during the process.

Pre-Treatment Care Guidelines

Proper preparation ensures your skin handles the HydraFacial well and you get the best results. Before your HydraFacial appointment, follow these guidelines:

  • Pause potent skincare actives: Avoid using retinoids (Retin-A, tretinoin) or any exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) for at least 48 hours before your treatment . These can sensitize the skin, so taking a break a couple of days prior helps prevent irritation.

  • No waxing, shaving or laser on the treatment area for about 24 hours prior . These hair removal methods can make skin more sensitive. If you need to shave, do it gently and well in advance of your appointment.

  • Avoid other facial treatments: Do not schedule any chemical peels, laser resurfacing, or aggressive facials in the 2 weeks leading up to your HydraFacial . Give your skin time to recover from any intensive treatment before doing HydraFacial.

  • Sun protection: Limit excess sun exposure or tanning for about 5–7 days pre-treatment . Coming in with a sunburn can risk further irritation, so use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily before your visit . It’s best to let any sunburn or tanning settle completely prior to treatment.

  • Plan around events: If you’re getting a HydraFacial for a special occasion, schedule it at least 3–5 days beforethe event . This timing ensures any mild post-treatment effects (like slight redness or flaking) have subsided and your skin is at its glowing best.

  • Cold sore prevention: If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex), inform Dr. Punit in advance. You may be advised to start an antiviral medication (e.g. valacyclovir) the day before or day of treatment to prevent an outbreak . Avoid treatment if you have an active cold sore or any open lesion – wait until the area is fully healed.

  • Come with clean skin: On the day of your HydraFacial, arrive with a makeup-free face . Avoid heavy creams or lotions that day. This allows the procedure to deeply cleanse your pores without any barriers.

  • Scheduling other procedures: If you plan on Botox or filler injections as well, do HydraFacial first or separate the appointments by about 2 weeks . This spacing prevents any interference with injectables and ensures each treatment settles properly.

Post-Treatment Care and Aftercare

Your skin will immediately feel refreshed and deeply cleansed after a HydraFacial. However, it will also be more sensitive in the first 1–2 days. Following these post-care instructions will help protect your results and avoid irritation. Dr. Punit emphasizes gentle care after treatment:

Common Side Effects: It’s normal to experience mild redness and tightness right after a HydraFacial . Your skin might feel slightly warm or tingly – this is due to boosted circulation and the active serums working. These effects are temporary: any redness usually subsides within a few hours (often by the end of the day) . Some individuals may notice a bit of dryness or light flaking the next day as exfoliated dead skin cells shed . This is generally mild and clears up within a couple of days with proper moisturizing. Serious reactions are rare with HydraFacial. If you have prolonged redness beyond 48 hours or any unusual swelling, inform Dr. Punit for evaluation (though this is uncommon).

Post-Treatment Do’s:

  • Keep skin hydrated and protected: Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to keep your face well-moisturized – this helps counter any dryness . Dr. Punit will often recommend a specific post-facial moisturizer or serum (rich in hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or peptides) to support the skin’s barrier . Also, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from within, which complements the facial’s effects .

  • Cleanse with care: You can wash your face that evening or the next morning with a mild, sulfate-free cleanser . Avoid any scrub or cleansing brush. Gently pat dry with a soft towel – do not rub the skin.

  • Sun protection is mandatory: Your skin will be more photo-sensitive after exfoliation. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every morning, starting the day after your HydraFacial . Continue this daily. If outdoors, wear a hat and seek shade; sun exposure can quickly undo the facial’s benefits and increase the risk of post-treatment hyperpigmentation .

  • Follow our skincare advice: Resume a basic skincare routine of gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF in the first 2–3 days. We may recommend specific calming or hydrating products to use at home, which are safe post-procedure. Stick to these recommended products for best results and to prolong your glow .

Post-Treatment Don’ts:

  • No exfoliation or harsh products: Avoid any form of exfoliation (scrubs, peels, exfoliating brushes) and stop using retinols, alpha or beta hydroxy acids, and vitamin C serums for about 48 hours after the HydraFacial . These potent actives could irritate your freshly treated skin. Let your skin rest with gentle products only.

  • Avoid heat and sweat: Steer clear of activities that make you sweat heavily or expose your face to high heat for at least 24 hours post-treatment . This means no intense workouts, saunas, steam rooms, or hot showers initially. Excess heat and perspiration can irritate the skin and prolong redness . Keep your showers lukewarm and short on day one.

  • No makeup for 24 hours: It’s best to not apply makeup on the same day as your HydraFacial . Your pores are very clean and open right after treatment; makeup could clog them or cause irritation. If you must use makeup the next day, choose a light, non-comedogenic foundation or tinted moisturizer , and ensure your brushes/sponges are clean.

  • Don’t pick or touch your face: Resist the urge to pick at any blackheads or flakes that surface after the treatment. Let your skin heal naturally. Picking can introduce bacteria or cause blemishes. Also, avoid rubbing your face vigorously when cleansing or drying – be gentle to your skin in the days after treatment.

  • Hold off on other treatments: Give your skin time to recover before your next cosmetic procedure. Wait about a week before doing any other facials, abrasive scrubs, or chemical peels. If you’re doing a series of skin treatments under Dr. Punit’s plan, he will guide you on the appropriate spacing.

Resuming Your Routine: Within 2 days post-HydraFacial, most patients can return to their normal skincare regimen . Specifically, makeup is fine to wear the day after treatment (24 hours later) . Strong active products like retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, or high-strength vitamin C can typically be resumed after 48 hours – or as advised by Dr. Punit based on your skin’s condition . If your skin still feels a bit sensitive at 2 days, you can extend the break from actives to 3–5 days. Our team will ensure you know exactly when to restart any specific prescription creams or potent products you use. The priority is to ease back in gently to avoid any irritation.

Follow-Up and Maintenance: To sustain the results of your HydraFacial, we usually recommend maintenance treatments every 4–6 weeks . Routine HydraFacials (e.g. monthly sessions) help maintain your skin’s cleanliness, hydration and elasticity over time . Under Dr. Punit’s guidance, we will tailor a long-term skincare plan – often combining monthly HydraFacials with a good at-home regimen – to keep your skin healthy and radiant year-round. Many patients use HydraFacial as a consistent skin health routine or before important events to ensure their skin stays in top condition . Dr. Punit will advise you on an ideal schedule based on your individual skin needs.

By adhering to these pre- and post-care guidelines, you can maximize the benefits of your HydraFacial while minimizing any risks. At Opal Radiant, your treatment is performed with the highest clinical standards and personalized care. If you have any questions or experience anything unexpected during recovery, Dr. Punit and our team are here to support you every step of the way. With proper care and professional oversight, HydraFacial will give your skin a safe, visibly glowing boost in hydration, clarity, and youthful smoothness.