HydraFacial Aftercare: What to Do in the First 24-72 Hours
In Chicago & Glenview, IL

Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago & Glenview, IL is led by Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is quadruple board-certified.

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Medically reviewed for accuracy.

HydraFacial is one of those treatments that can make your skin look better immediately, with little to no downtime. HydraFacial results vary by person, especially if you’re sensitive, acne-prone, or using strong active ingredients.

Quick takeaways

A little redness or tightness can happen and usually settles within 72 hours.
Tingling during treatment is common and typically fades within a few hours.
Your skin is more sun-sensitive right after, so avoid direct sun and use at least SPF 40 (SPF 30+ is the dermatologist baseline).
Skip strong actives and aggressive exfoliation around your appointment, especially acids and Retin-A type products.
If something feels off or symptoms get worse instead of better, contact our office

What is HydraFacial

HydraFacial is a hydradermabrasion treatment that combines cleansing, extraction, and hydration at the same time. It’s non-invasive, generally non-irritating, and most people can go right back to life afterward. At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, HydraFacial treatments are performed by our esthetics team, including Alison Falada, Licensed Esthetician & Laser Specialist, and are commonly selected by busy Chicago patients who want visible refreshment without a recovery week.

What to expect during and immediately after your HydraFacial

Most patients find the treatment soothing and non-irritating, but it’s normal to have short-lived reactions: Temporary tightness, mild irritation, or redness can occur and typically resolves within 72 hours, depending on skin sensitivity. Tingling or mild stinging during the treatment can happen and generally subsides within a few hours.

Can I wash my face the same day?

Yes. Gentle cleanser, lukewarm water, fingertips. Skip scrubs and brushes

Can I work out after HydraFacial?

Usually yes, but if you want to play it safe, wait about 24 hours before heavy sweating or sauna/steam.

What should I avoid right after?

Direct sun, aggressive exfoliation, waxing in the treated area, acids, and Retin-A type products.

When is a chemical peel a better fit?

If your goal is stubborn pigment or more noticeable texture change, a peel may be better than HydraFacial alone.

Schedule your consultation at Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa.
310 W. Superior St, Chicago, IL 60654 | Call/Text: 312-846-1629

Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials

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   Neha Patel 
 September 22, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. New update: I had a wonderful experience with Carol. She was professional, knowledgeable and paid attention to every detail to clearly explain my skin concerns. I’ll definitely be coming back!

The moment I walked into the clinic I felt a happy, welcomed and professional setting. I had my Sofwave treatment with Alison Falada, Master Esthetician and Laser Specialist. She was nothing short of amazing! She was personable, knowledgeable, skilled and detailed throughout the entire experience. She took the time to thoroughly explain the entire process, addressed all of my my questions and concerns. Alison is an expert and provided great quality service! I love my results and can't wait to book my next appointment with her!
  
 
      
   Chris C 
 September 20, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Carol has been doing my Botox for the last few years. She is kind, easy to talk to, makes herself available and approachable! Always feel at ease when I come see her and she does great work, goes by so fast, we are always done before I even know it. Highly recommend visiting her.
  
 
      
   Anika Tylek 
 September 19, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tom's kindness and incredible knowledge make it easy for me to trust him with my procedures. I cannot recommend him enough! I've had a great experience with him and will absolutely continue seeing him!
  
 
      
   Ruby Kelly 
 September 18, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been seeing Carol for Botox for over two years, and she is absolutely amazing! I trust her completely with my face. She always takes the time to listen to what I want and makes sure my results look natural and beautiful—she never overdoes it. I especially appreciate how honest she is; she will tell you when you don’t need something rather than trying to sell you more treatments.

Carol truly cares about her patients and always makes me feel comfortable, welcomed, and at home. She is professional, knowledgeable, gentle, and incredibly attentive. I always leave feeling confident and happy with my results. It’s hard to find someone you can trust this much, and I’m so grateful I found Carol.
  
 
      
   Nathaly Acuna 
 September 18, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everyone from the Doctors to staff, are amazingly professional and so sweet! Dr. Rachael’s knowledge and bedside manner make you feel so comfortable and at ease. I can’t recommend them enough!
  
 
      
   Carson Getz 
 September 17, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a great experience with Stephanie for my HydraFacial. She was super knowledgeable and taught me how to maintain that healthy, youthful skin I'm working so hard to hold onto. She made this experience comfortable, professional and genuinely enjoyable. Thank you Stephanie!
  
 
      
   Carol Sanchez 
 September 17, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an amazing experience with my Moxi laser treatment with Stephanie! She was incredibly knowledgeable and made me feel comfortable from start to finish. She thoroughly explained what to expect before, during, and after the procedure and gave me clear, detailed instructions for caring for my skin at home. I truly felt cared for throughout the entire experience and am so excited to see my results! I highly recommend Stephanie to anyone considering Moxi or any other service.
  
 
      
   Valentina Cortez 
 September 15, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just got laser hair removal with Stephanie for the first time, and I had such a great experience. The process was super fast and easy, and Stephanie was great. Looking forward to my next appointment!
  
 
      
   Marim_93 
 September 15, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience at Chicago Aesthetics has always been positive. I am so grateful to Stephanie for her guidance and expertise on my treatment plan over the past year. She was thoughtful in her approach to treating my hyperpigmentation and acne and always informed me on what was going on during each treatment and why we were doing it. I wouldn’t go to anyone else and highly highly recommend her! Also, the ladies at the front desk are always so kind and make the booking process and check in/check out process go smoothly.
  
 
      
   Daniella Bella 
 September 13, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had Lipo 360 and a Skinny BBL this summer, and I am so happy with my results. I was always extremely nervous about going under the knife, but I really wanted to do something that would help boost my self-confidence.

Dr. T and his entire team were truly amazing throughout the whole process. I am naturally pretty skinny, so I was always worried about whether this procedure would work well for my body type, but I honestly wish I had done it sooner.

I am currently about five weeks post-op, and I am already so pleased with how everything is turning out. My results continue to improve as I heal, and I’m excited to see the final outcome. I’m very grateful to Dr. T and his team for making me feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience.