Sometimes heading to your dermatologist or salon can feel like walking into the Hunger Games arena of skin care.
So, here’s a little list of what not to do before heading to your dermatologist’s office or salon, from someone who’s been in the skincare business for 13 years.
First off, I’m going to let you in on my golden rule of skin care: never, ever try a new treatment within 10 days of a major event. You know, like your cousin’s epic wedding where you’ll be rocking a lehenga, or right before an Insta-worthy moment like celebrating your anniversary.
Why? Because your skin might freak out.
If it’s a trusted brand, all that adrenaline and cortisol from the excitement can cause a skin flare-up. Even if this treatment is a regular fix for you, give yourself at least three to five days to recover. Otherwise, keep calm and resist the urge to experiment with anything new before the big day.
Waxing disaster
Waxing can irritate your skin, causing it to flare up and look red and maybe even blotchy. I wouldn’t call that a photo-op, would you?
And if you’re planning to wear makeup, your skin’s sensitivities might worsen things for you. Layering foundation on top of already irritated skin is definitely not a good idea.
The same goes for threading and facial waxing too. Make sure there’s a minimum five-day buffer between your big event and your waxing appointment, so you don’t end up looking like a post-chemical peel Samantha from Sex and the City.
No injectables before the big day
Botox, fillers, Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) – any of it is a big no on the eve of a big event. Yes, we all love the perfect pout that looks almost effortless or even a jawline that looks like it could cut glass—but all of that comes with risks such as bruising, if you attempt to do it too close to an event.
You can still get the needle pokes from a trusted dermatologist but give your skin enough buffer time to settle. I always tell my patients that a couple of weeks is the ideal period between any injectable procedures and their big day so that their skin gets with the programme as well.
Salon treatments
Please consider this a PSA: a salon is not where you go for injectables.
Salon microneedling, mesotherapy, fillers, or Botox—forget about all these treatments. For these sensitive treatments, you need strict hygiene, sterile tools, and a legitimate medical professional to do them right.
Do yourself and your skin a favour and please leave the needlework to your trusted dermatologist.
Body image issues
Here’s something you should know: dermatologists and the staff at your regular salon are familiar with all kinds of bodies and skin types. In my 13 years of experience, I can vouch for this without thinking twice; a professional medical practitioner only cares about one thing. Keeping your skin healthy.
Also read: White spots, discolouration — nail health an early indicator of nutritional deficiency
Nail care
An appointment I would tell you to skip if you’re dealing with a visible nail fungus issue is a manicure and pedicure.
Skip it, and go see your dermatologist instead because they will be able to get to the root of the issue and treat you with the right medications. Your nails can sometimes be shiny little mirrors to your overall health.
Trust the pros
When you visit a dermatologist, you’re entering a safe space. We’re here to help you. No matter how resilient your skin seems to you, trust me when I say, you have to listen to the professional in the room.
Don’t push for extra treatments like fillers or Botox back-to-back. It’s not a good idea to overload your skin with too much too soon.
I’ve had patients who have come to me claiming that they are fine after having done two to three skin treatments like Botox or fillers within three days. I don’t recommend that.
The same goes for salons—don’t overdo it. Your hair and nails don’t need constant touch-ups. For most of us, visiting the salon every two to three months is enough unless you’re regularly colouring.
And trust me, sometimes it’s good to ditch the paint and let your nails breathe. Give the mani-pedi-polish cycle a break every few months.
Additionally, when you’re getting hair treatments at a spa, wear a mask. It’s been shown that aerosols from some products can lead to long-term harmful diseases like cancer.
Lastly, if you’re heading to your dermatologist for any skin issues, come in bare-faced and loosely clothed, bring your makeup remover, and show your dermatologist how you clean your skin exactly.
So there you have it: the ultimate guide to what not to do at your dermatologist’s office and your salon. Remember, your dermatologist is just here to help, not judge—so relax and take care of that skin.
Dr Deepali Bhardwaj is a dermatologist, anti-allergy specialist, laser surgeon and internationally trained aesthetician. She tweets @dermatdoc. Views are personal.
(Edited by Ratan Priya)