Q&A: If I’m Getting Regular Facials, Do I Still Need to Exfoliate at Home?

This is a great question — and the answer is: yes, but strategically.

At Platinum Cosmetics, we design each facial to target your skin’s needs in that moment. But what you do between treatments plays a huge role in your long-term results.

Here’s how to think about exfoliation if you’re investing in professional skin treatments.

Why Exfoliation Still Matters Between Facials

Even with regular facials, your skin naturally accumulates:

  • Dead skin cells

  • Oil and debris

  • Environmental pollutants

  • Product build-up

Gentle at-home exfoliation helps to:

  • Maintain the clarity and glow from your facial

  • Prevent congestion or dullness between visits

  • Improve the absorption of your home care products

  • Prime the skin for better results in your next facial or laser treatment

How Often Should You Exfoliate at Home?

It depends on:

  • Your skin type

  • What treatments you’re receiving

  • The time of year

  • What products you’re using at home

As a general guide:

  • Normal/combo skin: 1–3 times per week

  • Sensitive or dry skin: 1–2 times per week with a very gentle product

  • Oily or breakout-prone skin: 2–3 times per week, rotating chemical and enzymatic options

We’ll always personalise your exfoliation plan based on your current routine and goals.

What Type of Exfoliant Is Best?

We often recommend:

  • Mandelic acid for pigment-prone or sensitive skin

  • Lactic acid for dry or dull skin

  • Gentle enzymes for reactive or inflamed skin

  • Avoid harsh physical scrubs (like walnut or apricot kernels), which can damage the skin barrier

You can explore options in our skin care range, or ask us during your next treatment.

When to Avoid At-Home Exfoliation

If you’ve just had:

…we’ll typically recommend pausing exfoliation for 5–7 days to let your skin heal.

Let Us Build the Right Routine for You

Your skincare should be supporting — not working against — your professional treatments. In fact, a smart home care plan is what makes the results from your facials last.

Not sure what your skin needs? Book a consultation at our Port Melbourne clinic and we’ll walk you through exactly how to exfoliate safely between treatments.

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Q&A: Why Is My Pigmentation Getting Worse Even Though I Wear Sunscreen?