What are the side effects of the diamond facial?

### Common Temporary Side Effects The most universal side effect of diamond facials is immediate post-treatment redness, which results from increased blood circulation to the treatment area. This flushing resembles a mild sunburn and typically appears across the entire treated area. For most clients, this redness peaks immediately after treatment and gradually fades within 2-4 hours. Those with very fair or reactive skin may experience redness persisting up to 24 hours. Heightened sensitivity frequently follows diamond facial treatments as your skin adjusts to having its protective outer layer mechanically removed. During the 24-48 hours post-treatment, your skin may feel more reactive to products, environmental factors like wind or temperature changes, and even water temperature during cleansing. This temporary sensitivity represents normal healing and indicates your skin is regenerating its barrier function. Skin tightness or dryness often develops 12-24 hours after treatment, particularly in those with naturally dry complexions. This sensation occurs because the exfoliation process removes surface oils along with dead skin cells, temporarily disrupting your skin's moisture balance. Proper post-treatment hydration with recommended moisturizers typically resolves this within 1-2 days. Mild skin flaking or peeling may occur 2-5 days post-treatment as the exfoliation effect continues beyond the initial session. This shedding represents the intended outcome—your skin releasing damaged cells to reveal the fresh layer beneath. The flaking is typically subtle and easily managed with gentle moisturizing, though those receiving more aggressive treatments may experience more noticeable peeling. ### Less Common Reactions Some clients experience temporary breakouts or purging in the week following diamond facial treatments. This reaction occurs when the deep exfoliation brings congestion to the surface that was forming beneath the skin. While frustrating, these breakouts often represent an accelerated clearing process that would have occurred eventually. The blemishes typically resolve faster than spontaneous breakouts and should not continue beyond 7-10 days. Increased pigmentation sensitivity can develop in the days following treatment. Freshly exfoliated skin has reduced melanin protection, making it more susceptible to UV damage and potential hyperpigmentation. Without proper sun protection, some clients notice darkening of existing spots or development of new discoloration. This underscores the critical importance of diligent sunscreen application post-treatment. Capillary visibility occasionally increases after diamond facials, particularly in clients with naturally thin skin or those prone to broken capillaries. The vacuum suction combined with the abrasive action can temporarily make small blood vessels more prominent. This effect usually diminishes within a few days but may persist longer in those with sensitive vascular systems. Contact dermatitis can develop in clients allergic to products used during the facial—typically the serums, masks, or moisturizers applied post-exfoliation rather than the diamond-tip exfoliation itself. Symptoms include itching, rash, or hives developing 6-24 hours after treatment. This reaction requires discontinuation of the offending product and potential medical attention if severe. ### Managing and Preventing Side Effects Proper pre-treatment preparation significantly reduces side effect severity. Arriving with clean, product-free skin allows your therapist to assess your skin's true condition and adjust treatment intensity accordingly. Disclosing all active ingredients in your current skincare routine—particularly retinoids, acids, or prescription treatments—enables your therapist to modify the treatment to prevent over-exfoliation. Post-treatment care directly impacts how quickly side effects resolve. Avoiding active skincare ingredients like retinol, acids, or vitamin C for 3-5 days prevents irritation of the newly exfoliated skin. Using only gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and rich moisturizers supports your skin's healing process. Most importantly, applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning protects vulnerable skin from UV damage. Temperature extremes should be avoided for 24-48 hours post-treatment. Hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and vigorous exercise that causes flushing can exacerbate redness and potentially trigger inflammation. Similarly, exposure to cold wind or harsh weather should be minimized as your skin rebuilds its protective barrier. Hydration—both topical and internal—accelerates recovery from diamond facial side effects. Drinking additional water supports your skin's cellular regeneration, while layering hydrating serums beneath your moisturizer provides the moisture your temporarily compromised skin barrier needs. ### When to Seek Professional Guidance While most side effects resolve naturally within a week, certain reactions warrant contacting your therapist or dermatologist. Redness persisting beyond 48 hours, especially if accompanied by heat, pain, or swelling, may indicate infection or an inflammatory response requiring medical evaluation. Severe flaking that doesn't respond to moisturization, particularly if accompanied by cracking or weeping, suggests over-exfoliation that damaged your skin barrier. Your therapist can recommend barrier-repair products and adjust future treatment intensity to prevent recurrence. New or worsening hyperpigmentation developing in the weeks after treatment should be evaluated promptly. While some darkening may be normal purging, persistent or expanding dark spots could indicate post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation requiring specific treatment protocols. Prolonged breakouts extending beyond two weeks post-treatment may suggest product incompatibility or an underlying skin condition exacerbated by the facial. Your therapist can help identify potential triggers and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

**Available at both locations**: - **Newcastle City Centre**: Professional facial treatments with comprehensive pre-treatment consultations to assess your skin's suitability and minimize side effect risk. - **Gosforth**: Established salon offering diamond facials with detailed aftercare guidance and complimentary follow-up consultations if you have concerns. **Our Diamond Facial Services**: - Lotus Herbals Radiant Diamond Facial: £45 | 60 minutes - Oxyglow Diamond Facial: £40 | 60 minutes - Kaeso Calming Facial (for sensitive skin): £38 | 55 minutes [Book with Confidence - Available on Treatwell, Fresha, and Booksy]