Experts recommend going for facials every few months, or even weeks. But before you start, here’s what to be wary of.

With self-care being the buzzword of the season, everyone is inclined to treat themselves to massages and facials. While facials are relaxing (because who doesn’t like to lie down for an hour and wake up to better skin?), they can cause damage if done wrongly. Here’s what you should look out for.

(Also read: 10 Facial Essences For Younger Looking Skin)

Over-doing it

Too much of anything isn’t good, and facials are no different, especially if you’re doing a stronger treatment. Aestheticians recommend going for a facial every three to five weeks, so you should follow that unless otherwise directed.

Harsher treatments that involve lasers and extractions must not be done too often because they can damage your skin’s natural barrier, and leave your skin red and sensitised.

(Also read: 5 Korean Facials To Get The K-Beauty Glow)

Too much exfoliation

The reason why facials are so highly recommended is not just the relaxation factor, but the thorough cleansing. We often fail to remove all the product residue on our faces and properly clean the hard-to-reach areas.

While facials will help remove any leftover products on your skin, too much cleansing can dry out your skin. Exfoliating is a skin-saver, but over-exfoliating will leave your skin damaged and over-sensitised.

(Also read: 6 Super Gentle Exfoliating Products to Give You Clear, Glowing Skin)

Invasive extractions

Extractions can be hard to manage because when not done properly, they can leave scars or cause bacteria to spread. It can be helpful to extract once in a while, but make sure to do it with someone who is experienced. Home extractions are not recommended, especially not when they’re done with dirty hands.

(Also read: 5 Best Facials That Guarantee Results Instantly)

Inappropriate treatments

Going for basic facials and free trials can be good to cleanse and moisturise the skin, but don’t expect to see miracles from those.

Beware of promotions, and make sure you are only signing up for facials that suit your needs, and definitely not those that target a specific skin problem you don’t have. For instance, although an anti-acne treatment helps to clear up the skin, it can damage skin that is already acne-free.

(Also read: 5 Best Facials For Those With Oily Skin)

Strong ingredients

Be careful whenever you are trying a new treatment or product that uses strong ingredients that are steroid-based or medically prescribed. Over time, your skin will become used to those ingredients, and less responsive to over-the-counter products. When your skin gets desensitised, your at-home skincare routine may not be as effective, and you may require a higher dosage of active ingredients to see results.

(Also read: Tried and Tested: 3 Facials to Help You Glow This Festive Season)