Pre & Post Care for Facial Treatments in Dallas, TX

At Saltbox Aesthetics + Apothecary in Dallas, TX, we offer HydraFacial®, dermaplaning, and microdermabrasion to refresh the skin and improve hydration, smoothness, and radiance. Proper preparation and aftercare help keep your skin comfortable and support your results.

These general instructions apply to HydraFacial®, dermaplaning, and microdermabrasion. Your provider may adjust your care based on your skin’s sensitivity, the treatment performed, and any boosters or enhancements included.

If you have questions, call or text 972-677-9888.

Pre-Treatment Instructions

  • Avoid sunburn, tanning beds, and excessive sun exposure before your appointment. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily.
  • Your provider may recommend pausing retinoids, retinol, exfoliating acids, benzoyl peroxide, and other irritating products for 3–5 days before treatment. Confirm instructions for prescription skincare before stopping it.
  • Avoid waxing, depilatory creams, or other aggressive hair removal on the treatment area before your appointment. Ask your provider about appropriate spacing.
  • Notify your provider of recent laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, injectables, or other cosmetic procedures.
  • Tell your provider about active acne, cold sores, skin infections, open wounds, sensitivity, or recent medication changes.
  • Let your provider know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding so treatment products can be reviewed.
  • Arrive with clean, moisturized skin and SPF. Avoid wearing makeup, including mascara, to your appointment.

Immediately After Treatment

  • Mild pinkness, tightness, or sensitivity may occur, particularly after exfoliation or extractions.
  • Keep the treated area clean and avoid unnecessary touching.
  • Use only the gentle, hydrating products recommended by your provider.
  • Avoid scrubbing, exfoliating brushes, facial tools, or picking at the skin.
  • Avoid excessive heat, strenuous exercise, sweating, saunas, and hot tubs for 24 hours, or longer if your skin remains irritated.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure and apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
  • If possible, leave makeup off for the remainder of the day. Your provider will advise when it is appropriate to resume based on your treatment and skin response.
  • Use clean hands, makeup brushes, and a fresh pillowcase.

Recovery & Ongoing Aftercare

First 3–5 Days

  • Keep your routine simple with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
  • Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids, benzoyl peroxide, scrubs, and other irritating products until your provider clears you to restart them.
  • Avoid additional exfoliation, including at-home dermaplaning or microdermabrasion.
  • Do not pick at blemishes, dry patches, or flaking skin.
  • Avoid waxing or other irritating treatments until your skin has recovered.
  • If products sting or your skin feels unusually sensitive, stop using them and contact our team.

Ongoing Skin Care

  • Continue daily SPF 30+ and limit prolonged sun exposure.
  • Gradually resume your usual skincare routine as directed.
  • Keep your skin moisturized and avoid friction or harsh cleansing.

What to Expect

  • HydraFacial®: Skin may feel hydrated and refreshed. Temporary redness or sensitivity can occur after exfoliation, extractions, or selected boosters.
  • Dermaplaning: Skin may feel smoother after removal of surface buildup and fine facial hair. Mild sensitivity or pinkness may occur.
  • Microdermabrasion: Temporary pinkness, tightness, or mild swelling may occur following exfoliation.

Significant peeling, severe pain, or worsening irritation should not be assumed to be a normal part of recovery.

Important Reminders & Appointment Information

When to Contact Our Team

Contact Saltbox if you experience:

  • Redness, swelling, or irritation that persists or worsens
  • Significant burning, pain, blistering, or a new rash
  • Open areas, drainage, fever, or other signs of infection
  • Any symptoms that concern you

For difficulty breathing or signs of a severe allergic reaction, seek emergency medical care or call 911.

Illness & Rescheduling

If you are ill or develop a cold sore, skin infection, open wound, sunburn, or significant irritation in the treatment area, contact us before your appointment. Treatment may need to be rescheduled.

For cancellations, Saltbox requires 24 hours’ notice to avoid forfeiting deposits or incurring a cancellation fee.

Reschedule through your patient portal.

Medical Charting & Treatment Tracking

When required for your treatment, we will take photos using our HIPAA-compliant software to document your skin and evaluate results and progress.

Individualized Care

These instructions cover common guidelines for facial treatments. They may not include all recommendations specific to your individual care.

Please follow any additional instructions provided by your treatment provider. If your facial is combined with a laser, peel, or other procedure, follow the additional care instructions for that treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear makeup after my facial?

If possible, leave makeup off for the remainder of the day. Timing depends on the treatment performed and your skin’s response. Follow your provider’s instructions and use clean makeup brushes when you resume.

When can I restart retinol or exfoliating products?

Your provider may recommend avoiding these products for 3–5 days after treatment, or longer if your skin remains sensitive. Restart only when directed, and avoid adding extra exfoliation while your skin recovers.

Do these instructions apply to combination facial treatments?

These guidelines cover HydraFacial®, dermaplaning, and microdermabrasion. If your visit includes laser treatment, a chemical peel, or another procedure, you will also need to follow that treatment’s specific care instructions.

Questions About Your Treatment?

We’re here to help you feel prepared for your appointment and supported during recovery. Contact our team with any questions about your treatment or care instructions.

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Whether you know your next treatment or would like guidance, our team is here to help you find the right place to begin.