Do Facials Cause Breakouts? Separating Fact from Fiction
It’s one of the most common concerns we hear: “I had a facial once and broke out — is that normal?”
The short answer is: sometimes, but not always — and it depends on what kind of breakout, when it appears, and how your skin was treated.
If you’re considering facials at our Port Melbourne clinic but are nervous about breakouts, here’s what you need to know.
1. Some Post-Facial Breakouts Are Normal (and Temporary)
This is often referred to as “purging.” It happens when active ingredients or manual extractions speed up your skin’s natural turnover. As congestion rises to the surface, you might experience:
Small, superficial breakouts
Mild bumps or whiteheads
A few days of increased texture
This isn’t a reaction — it’s your skin clearing itself out. If you’re new to professional treatments or haven’t had a facial in a long time, this is fairly common.
2. Not All Breakouts After a Facial Are Normal
Breakouts that appear after a facial can also be a sign that:
The wrong products were used for your skin type
Your barrier was compromised
There was cross-contamination during treatment
You had a sensitivity or allergic reaction
That’s why every facial at Platinum Cosmetics is customised after a proper skin assessment. We don’t follow a “standard” script — we treat what we see.
3. Good Facials Support Clear Skin, Not Aggravate It
When done correctly, facials should:
Reduce congestion over time
Support a stronger barrier
Calm inflammation and restore balance
Prepare the skin for active ingredients
Our clinical facials range from hydrating and barrier-repairing to brightening and texture-smoothing. And we’ll always explain exactly what to expect afterwards — including what’s normal and what’s not.
4. Post-Facial Aftercare Matters
Breakouts can also be triggered by poor aftercare. After your treatment:
Avoid touching your face
Skip actives (like retinol or exfoliants) for 2–3 days
Don’t wear heavy makeup for 24 hours
Use only gentle, hydrating products while the skin settles
If you’re unsure what to use post-facial, we’ll guide you. Our skin care recommendations are always personalised, and focused on healing, not hype.
Book a Facial Consultation (No Surprises)
If you’ve been burned by a past facial or just want to make sure your skin is supported properly, book a consultation with us. We’ll assess your skin’s needs, discuss your history, and design a treatment that supports long-term clarity — not short-term chaos.