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.