Did you know that your skin replaces itself every 28 days? Yet most of us don’t give our largest organ the professional attention it deserves! I’ve been there too, spending hundreds on fancy creams that just collected dust in my bathroom cabinet. That all changed when I discovered medical grade facials. Talk about a game changer for my skin!
Medical grade facials aren’t your typical spa treatments. These are clinical-level skin services that deliver powerful results using professional-strength ingredients and advanced technologies. Unlike regular facials, these treatments are designed to work at a deeper cellular level, targeting specific skin concerns with precision.
If you’re in Indianapolis and looking for transformative skin treatments, Basil Beauty and Barber Shop located at 4911 West 38th Street should be your go-to destination. I stumbled upon this gem last year and haven’t looked elsewhere since. Their skilled aestheticians have completely revolutionized my skincare routine.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about medical grade facials – from the different types available to what results you can expect. I’ve made all the mistakes and asked all the awkward questions so you don’t have to!
What Are Medical Grade Facials and Why Do They Matter?
Let me tell you, I used to think all facials were created equal. Boy, was I wrong! Medical grade facials are in a completely different league than your typical spa facials. The difference? It’s all about strength, specificity, and supervision.
Medical grade facials utilize higher concentrations of active ingredients that can actually penetrate beyond the skin’s surface layer. We’re talking professional-strength glycolic acid, retinol, vitamin C, and other potent ingredients that aren’t available in over-the-counter products. These treatments are designed to target specific skin concerns at their source rather than just providing a temporary glow.
I remember my first chemical peel at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop. I was nervous as heck! The aesthetician noticed my white-knuckle grip on the chair and patiently explained that unlike regular facials that focus primarily on relaxation and surface cleansing, medical grade treatments address issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and texture concerns with clinical precision.
The technologies used in these facials are impressive too. From microdermabrasion devices that physically exfoliate the skin to LED light therapy that targets bacteria and stimulates collagen, these aren’t tools you’d find in a regular spa. And let me tell you about Hydrafacial machines – they’re like vacuum cleaners for your pores but in the best possible way!
The benefits are serious business. I’ve personally seen dramatic improvements in my stubborn acne scars, something no amount of expensive creams could touch. Medical grade facials can help with:
- Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
- Clearing acne and preventing future breakouts
- Evening out skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation
- Improving skin texture and minimizing pores
- Increasing hydration and skin barrier function
- Boosting collagen production
One thing I didn’t realize at first is how important professional supervision is with these treatments. When you’re dealing with potent ingredients, you want someone who knows what they’re doing! The team at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop has extensive training in skin anatomy, ingredient interactions, and treatment protocols. Trust me, after an aesthetician once burned my skin at another place (not naming names!), I appreciate their expertise so much more.
During my consultation, they analyzed my skin using specialized equipment that showed damage I couldn’t even see with my naked eye. It was kinda horrifying but super informative! They then customized my treatment plan based on my specific skin concerns rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach.
If you’ve been struggling with persistent skin issues that just won’t respond to regular skincare, medical grade facials might be the missing piece in your routine. I wish I’d discovered them years ago instead of wasting time and money on products that barely scratched the surface of my skin concerns!
Types of Medical Grade Facials Available in Indianapolis
Indianapolis has really stepped up its skincare game in recent years, and Basil Beauty and Barber Shop is leading the pack with their range of medical grade facial options. I’ve tried my fair share of treatments (my wallet isn’t thanking me, but my skin sure is!), so let me break down what’s available.
Chemical peels are probably the treatment I was most terrified of at first. The name alone sounds scary, right? But they’ve become my secret weapon for smoother skin. These treatments use acids to remove damaged outer layers of skin, revealing fresher, younger cells beneath. Basil Beauty offers various strengths, from gentle lactic acid peels that give you a glow with minimal downtime to deeper TCA peels that tackle more stubborn issues like deep wrinkles and acne scars.
I started with a light glycolic peel and nearly canceled three times before my appointment! The tingling sensation was weird but totally manageable, and the peeling afterward wasn’t nearly as dramatic as those horror stories you see online. My skin looked incredible afterward—like I’d somehow hit the reset button.
Microdermabrasion is another powerhouse treatment available in Indianapolis. This process uses tiny crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to physically exfoliate dead skin cells. It’s basically like super-powered sandpaper for your face, which sounds awful but feels amazing! The first time I tried it at Basil Beauty, I couldn’t stop touching my face afterward (though the aesthetician gently slapped my hand away and reminded me about transferring bacteria—oops!).
The HydraFacial has become my quarterly treat. This multi-step treatment cleanses, exfoliates, extracts, and hydrates all at once using a special device. The best part? You get to see all the gunk that comes out of your pores in a little cup at the end. It’s disgustingly satisfying! My skin drinks up the serums they infuse during the treatment, and I swear I look five years younger for weeks afterward.
LED light therapy facials are perfect for those days when my skin needs help but can’t handle anything aggressive. Different light wavelengths target specific concerns—blue light kills acne-causing bacteria (saved my skin during that horrible breakout before my cousin’s wedding!), while red light stimulates collagen production. It feels warm and relaxing, and you can add it onto other treatments.
For those battling acne like I did for years, Basil Beauty offers specialized purifying treatments that combine extractions with antibacterial agents and anti-inflammatory ingredients. The extractions aren’t exactly comfortable (I may have yelped the first time), but seeing those clear pores is worth every second of discomfort.
Their anti-aging protocols are something special too. Combining microcurrent technology that literally “works out” your facial muscles with powerful peptide-infused serums, these treatments give results that almost mimic a mini-facelift. I was skeptical until I saw my mom’s results—the difference in her jawline definition after just three sessions was impressive!
What makes Basil Beauty stand out is their exclusive oxygen infusion facial that’s hard to find elsewhere in Indianapolis. This treatment literally blasts pressurized oxygen along with hyaluronic acid and vitamins into your skin. Sounds weird, feels amazing, and gives this plumped-up, dewy finish that lasts for days. I splurged on this before my high school reunion and got so many compliments!
For hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, they offer specialized brightening treatments using ingredients like kojic acid, arbutin, and vitamin C at concentrations you simply can’t get in over-the-counter products. After years of being self-conscious about my melasma patches, seeing them fade has been life-changing.
The team at Basil Beauty also creates custom-blended treatments based on your specific skin concerns. During one visit when my skin was freaking out from stress and hormones, they combined elements from different protocols to create a treatment that addressed everything without overwhelming my sensitive skin.
The beauty of finding a place like Basil Beauty in Indianapolis is the ability to progress through different treatment intensities as your skin adapts and improves. They’ve guided me from gentle introductory treatments to more advanced protocols as my skin has become stronger and healthier.
Who Can Benefit from Medical Grade Facials?
Let me tell you, I used to think medical grade facials were just for celebrities or people with serious skin problems. Boy, was I wrong! After trying them myself and seeing the results on friends with completely different skin types than mine, I’ve become a total convert.
If you’re battling acne like I did throughout my twenties (and frustratingly, into my thirties), medical grade facials can be game-changers. The professional-strength salicylic acid treatments at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop actually get deep into pores to clear out the gunk that causes breakouts. I remember crying in my car after my first treatment because for the first time, someone had given me hope that my skin could actually improve instead of just telling me to “wash my face better” or “drink more water.” The extractions they do are so much safer than my previous bathroom mirror picking sessions (which I’m not proud of!).
On the flip side, if you’re seeing those fine lines and wrinkles creeping in, these facials can help turn back the clock. The collagen-stimulating treatments they offer work at a cellular level to improve skin elasticity and firmness. My mom started getting medical grade facials last year, and the difference in her skin texture is remarkable. She actually got carded buying wine last month – at 62! We couldn’t stop laughing.
Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone respond incredibly well to medical grade interventions. Whether it’s sun damage, melasma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from old acne (those stubborn dark spots that hang around long after the pimple is gone), the professional-strength brightening agents used at Basil Beauty can fade these issues much faster than over-the-counter products. I had patches of melasma from hormonal changes that I thought I’d be covering with concealer forever until I started these treatments.
If you have sensitive skin, you might be thinking, “No way, these sounds too harsh for me!” I get it – I was terrified too. My skin gets red if I just look at it wrong. What surprised me is that under professional guidance, even sensitive skin types can benefit from properly customized medical grade treatments. The team at Basil Beauty is fantastic at adjusting ingredient concentrations and treatment protocols for reactive skin. They started me on super gentle lactic acid treatments before gradually introducing stronger ingredients as my skin barrier strengthened.
Here’s something I didn’t expect – they have a whole menu of treatments specifically designed for men! My husband would rather die than admit he cares about skincare, but after seeing my results, he sheepishly asked if they could help with his razor bumps and the “craters” (his words) on his nose. The aesthetician created a treatment protocol addressing his thicker skin, larger pores, and ingrown hair issues. Now he’s the one reminding me when it’s time for our appointments!
What makes medical grade facials so effective is the customization. During my first consultation at Basil Beauty, they analyzed my skin under special lights that showed damage and concerns I couldn’t even see in my magnifying mirror at home. Based on that assessment, they created a treatment plan specifically for my combination of issues – some dehydration on my cheeks, congestion in my T-zone, and early signs of sun damage across my forehead.
The best part? As your skin improves and changes, they adjust your treatments accordingly. It’s not a one-and-done approach but rather an evolving partnership. When stress or hormonal changes trigger changes in my skin, they modify my treatments to address these new concerns.
Even teenagers can benefit from professional guidance. I wish I’d had access to proper treatment when I was a teen instead of using those horrible alcohol-based products that stripped my skin and probably made everything worse! Basil Beauty offers gentle introductory treatments for younger clients that help manage acne without damaging sensitive young skin.
Pregnancy brings its own set of skin challenges (hello, mask of pregnancy!), and they offer specially formulated treatments that are safe for expectant mothers while still being effective for hormone-related breakouts and pigmentation.
The bottom line is that nearly everyone can benefit from medical grade facials when they’re properly customized to your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with acne, aging, sensitivity, or just want to maintain healthy skin, there’s a treatment protocol that can help. And in Indianapolis, Basil Beauty and Barber Shop has established itself as the go-to destination for these specialized services.
The Medical Grade Facial Experience at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop
Walking into Basil Beauty and Barber Shop for the first time, I was honestly a bit intimidated. Would they judge my previous skincare mistakes? (Like that time I thought using dish soap would “deep clean” my oily skin – yikes!) I couldn’t have been more wrong about the experience.
The consultation process sets the tone for everything that follows. Unlike other places where I felt rushed through a generic form, the team at Basil takes their time getting to know your skin concerns, history, and goals. During my first visit, I sat in a comfortable chair while the aesthetician examined my skin under a special magnifying lamp. She asked thoughtful questions about my current routine, products I’ve tried, and any treatments I’d had before.
What really impressed me was the skin analysis they performed. They used this high-tech imaging system that showed sun damage, dehydration, and congestion that wasn’t even visible to the naked eye. It was simultaneously horrifying and fascinating! They explained everything they saw in a way that educated me without making me feel bad about my previous skincare sins.
The treatment environment at Basil Beauty is something special. Located at 4911 West 38th Street in Indianapolis, the space strikes this perfect balance between clinical (so you know it’s legit) and spa-like (so you can actually relax). The treatment rooms are immaculately clean with comfortable heated beds that made me want to ask if I could move in permanently during Indiana’s brutal winter!
They play soft music that’s actually pleasant – not that weird pan flute stuff that makes you feel like you’re trapped in an elevator. The lighting is dim but not so dark that you worry about what they’re actually doing to your face. And the blankets! Don’t get me started on how cozy those blankets are.
Let me walk you through what a typical treatment actually feels like. After changing into a soft spa wrap and headband, you lie back on the heated bed. The aesthetician begins with a thorough cleansing – and I mean thorough. They use these amazing professional cleansers that somehow remove every trace of makeup without stripping your skin.
Next comes analysis under magnification to determine exactly what your skin needs that day. Even though I go in with a specific treatment in mind, I appreciate that they assess my current condition before proceeding. There was one time I scheduled a chemical peel but showed up with an unexpected hormonal breakout, and they adjusted my treatment on the spot to address the inflammation first.
Depending on your treatment, you might experience anything from gentle pressure during extractions to tingling during chemical exfoliation. Let’s be real – some steps in medical grade facials aren’t exactly comfortable. The first time I had extractions done professionally, I nearly jumped off the table! But the discomfort is always brief, and the results are so worth it.
One concern many people have is pain levels. I won’t sugarcoat it – certain treatments do involve some discomfort. My first deeper chemical peel felt like I had a sunburn for about 20 minutes during application. But the team at Basil is fantastic about managing comfort levels. They use powerful fans during the more intense parts of chemical treatments, apply numbing cream when necessary, and always check in about your comfort level throughout the process.
What really sets Basil Beauty apart is their approach to post-treatment care. After every service, they walk you through exactly what to expect in the following days. They provide written instructions (which was super helpful that time I forgot everything they told me immediately after walking out the door) and even send follow-up texts to check how your skin is responding.
The expertise of their practitioners is evident in every interaction. All their aestheticians have advanced training and certifications beyond the basic requirements. My regular aesthetician, who I now trust with my life (or at least my face), regularly attends continuing education on the newest ingredients and techniques. She can explain the difference between glycolic and mandelic acid in a way that actually makes sense, and she’s honest about what treatments will and won’t help with specific concerns.
After experiencing medical grade facials at Basil Beauty, I’ve realized that professional guidance makes all the difference. Instead of guessing which products might work or wasting money on treatments that aren’t right for my skin, I now have a customized plan that continues to evolve as my skin improves. The confidence that comes from knowing you’re in expert hands is honestly priceless.
Results You Can Expect from Medical Grade Facials
Let’s get real about results – because that’s what matters, right? When I shelled out for my first medical grade facial at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop, I was skeptical. Would it really be that different from the spa facials I’d tried before? The answer was a resounding YES, but not exactly in the way I expected.
The immediate effects of a medical grade facial can be pretty dramatic, depending on which treatment you choose. After my first HydraFacial, I walked out with this ridiculous glow that had three separate strangers complimenting my skin while I was running errands afterward. It was like someone had installed perfect lighting that followed me around!
However, I should warn you – not all treatments give that immediate “wow” factor. My first chemical peel left me looking a bit red and shiny, and I definitely questioned my life choices that evening. But by day three, as the peeling process completed, I could not believe the improvement in my skin texture. Those stubborn bumpy areas on my forehead that I thought were a permanent feature of my face? Gone!
That brings me to the long-term benefits, which is where medical grade facials really shine. Unlike regular facials that might make your skin look great for a day or two, these treatments create actual changes in your skin over time. After about three months of regular treatments at Basil Beauty, my persistent hormonal acne along my jawline had decreased by about 80%. The hyperpigmentation that had bothered me for years began noticeably fading after a series of specialized treatments.
Now, let’s talk maintenance because that’s something I misunderstood at first. I naively thought one “intense” treatment would solve all my problems forever. The aesthetician gently explained that skin is a living organ that continues to respond to environment, hormones, diet, and aging. For lasting results, they recommended a treatment schedule based on my specific concerns – for me, that meant monthly treatments initially, then moving to maintenance visits every 6-8 weeks.
The results build progressively over time. Think of it like going to the gym – one workout feels good but doesn’t transform your fitness level. Consistent treatments, however, create cumulative improvements that become more and more noticeable. Six months into my treatment plan at Basil Beauty, I realized I was wearing less foundation and feeling confident enough to go makeup-free on weekends – something I hadn’t done since my early twenties!
Let me share some before and after scenarios I’ve witnessed. My own experience with acne scarring was remarkable – dark marks that had persisted for years faded significantly after a series of chemical peels and LED treatments. A friend who struggled with rosacea saw dramatic improvement in redness and inflammation after customized enzyme treatments. My mom’s “turkey neck” (her words, not mine!) looked noticeably firmer after a series of radiofrequency treatments combined with medical grade facials.
Realistic expectations are important though. The team at Basil Beauty is refreshingly honest about what these treatments can and cannot do. They explained that while they could significantly improve my skin’s texture and tone, certain deep acne scars would require more intensive interventions like microneedling (which they also offer). They won’t promise that a facial will completely eliminate your need for Botox if that’s something you’re considering – instead, they focus on how treatments complement each other.
What convinced me more than anything were the testimonials from other Indianapolis clients. The walls at Basil Beauty feature before and after photos from real local clients (with permission, of course). During my treatments, I’ve chatted with other regulars in the waiting area who shared their journeys – from the businessman who finally found relief from chronic ingrown hairs to the bride whose pre-wedding treatment series gave her the confidence to go with minimal makeup on her big day.
Time frames for results vary depending on your concerns. Surface issues like dullness and minor congestion can improve after just one treatment. Deeper concerns like acne, scarring, and signs of aging typically show significant improvement after 3-6 consistent treatments. For some conditions like melasma, ongoing maintenance is essential because the underlying triggers (hormones, sun exposure) continue to exist.
Perhaps the most unexpected result for me was the improvement in my skincare knowledge. The team at Basil Beauty doesn’t just perform treatments – they educate you about your skin’s specific needs. I’ve learned which ingredients actually work for my concerns (goodbye, expensive but useless products claiming miracle results) and how to properly layer them for maximum benefit.
The confidence that comes from having clear, healthy skin has been the most valuable result of all. I no longer feel the need to wear a full face of makeup to the grocery store or panic if someone wants to take a close-up photo. That feeling is truly priceless.
Medical Grade Facial Pricing and Value in Indianapolis
Let’s talk money – because I know that was my biggest hesitation before diving into medical grade facials. When I saw the prices at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop compared to regular spa facials, I nearly choked on my coffee. Would these treatments really be worth the investment? After experiencing the results firsthand, I can confidently say yes – but let me break down the costs so you can decide for yourself.
In Indianapolis, medical grade facial treatments typically range from $85-$250 per session, depending on the specific protocol. Entry-level treatments like basic chemical peels or LED therapy sessions fall on the lower end of that spectrum. More intensive treatments like the comprehensive HydraFacial MD or specialized acne protocols will set you back closer to the higher end.
At Basil Beauty specifically, their signature medical grade facial starts at $125, which includes a personalized approach based on your skin assessment. Their advanced chemical peels range from $95-$175 depending on the strength and type of peel. Their most comprehensive treatment, which combines multiple technologies in one session, runs about $225.
How does this compare to other options in Indianapolis? I did my homework before committing (spreadsheets may have been involved – I’m not ashamed!). Basic spa facials around the city average $65-$95, so there’s definitely a price jump. However, after experiencing both types of treatments, I realized we’re comparing apples to oranges. Standard spa facials focus primarily on relaxation and surface cleansing, while medical grade facials use clinical-strength ingredients and technologies to create actual changes in the skin.
The value proposition at Basil Beauty becomes clear when you consider several factors. First, the expertise of their practitioners far exceeds what I’ve experienced at standard spas. Their aestheticians have advanced certifications and specialized training in medical aesthetics. Second, the professional-grade products and equipment they use simply aren’t available in regular spa settings. And third, the customization of each treatment means you’re not paying for a one-size-fits-all approach that might not address your specific concerns.
I’ve also found that I need fewer treatments to see results compared to regular facials. While I used to get monthly spa facials with minimal lasting improvement, I now schedule medical grade treatments every 6-8 weeks and see continued progress. In the long run, this actually makes the higher price point more economical.
Basil Beauty offers several package deals that significantly reduce the per-treatment cost. Their series packages (buy 5, get 1 free) brought my per-treatment cost down by about 15%. They also offer membership options where you commit to monthly treatments at a reduced rate, which is what I eventually chose after seeing the results from my initial sessions.
Another factor to consider is the reduction in other skincare costs. Since starting regular treatments, I’ve actually spent less on expensive serums and creams because: 1) The treatments themselves do much of the heavy lifting, and 2) The team has helped me streamline my routine to include only what my skin truly needs. My previous “throw everything at the problem” approach was way more costly in the long run!
One aspect I hadn’t considered initially was insurance and FSA/HSA eligibility. While most cosmetic treatments aren’t covered by insurance, some medical grade facials may be eligible for FSA or HSA reimbursement if they’re prescribed by a dermatologist for specific skin conditions. This isn’t always the case, but it’s worth exploring if you have these benefits available.
The team at Basil Beauty is refreshingly transparent about costs. During my consultation, they outlined exactly what I could expect to spend for my recommended treatment plan, including initial more-frequent visits and then a maintenance schedule. There were no surprise add-ons or pressure to purchase products, which I appreciated.
For those concerned about the investment, they offer a starter package that lets you experience a modified version of their signature treatment at a lower price point. This gave me a chance to experience their approach before committing to a full treatment plan.
When considering value, I also factor in the confidence boost and time savings. I spend far less time applying and touching up makeup now that my skin has improved. The mental freedom of not stressing about breakouts or feeling self-conscious about my skin is harder to quantify but incredibly valuable.
Is it worth the splurge? For me, absolutely yes. But I understand it’s a personal decision based on your priorities and budget. What I appreciate about Basil Beauty is that they work with clients to create treatment plans that fit various budgets, focusing on the most effective treatments for your specific concerns rather than just selling you on the most expensive options.
My advice? Book a consultation (often complimentary) to discuss your specific concerns and get a clear picture of recommended treatments and costs before making your decision. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to investing in your skin.
How to Prepare for Your Medical Grade Facial
If you’re anything like me, you want to get the absolute most out of your investment in a medical grade facial. Let me share what I’ve learned about proper preparation – some through advice from the amazing team at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop, and some, unfortunately, through my own mistakes!
Your pre-treatment skincare routine matters more than I initially realized. About a week before your appointment, you’ll want to focus on gentle hydration and avoiding potential irritants. The aestheticians at Basil Beauty recommend using only mild cleansers and moisturizers in the days leading up to your treatment. This creates a nice, balanced canvas for them to work with.
There are definitely products you should avoid before treatment, and I learned this the hard way. Before my first chemical peel, no one told me to stop using my retinol cream. Big mistake! My skin was already slightly sensitized when I arrived, which meant they had to use a gentler peel than originally planned. Now I know to discontinue any retinol products, exfoliating acids (like glycolic or salicylic), or physical scrubs at least 3-5 days before my appointment. The team at Basil Beauty now sends helpful pre-appointment text reminders with specific instructions based on your scheduled treatment.
When you book your consultation, come prepared with questions. I was so nervous during my first visit that I forgot half the things I wanted to ask! Now I keep a running list in my phone of questions like:
- What improvements can I realistically expect from this treatment?
- How many sessions might I need to see significant results?
- What downtime should I anticipate?
- Are there specific products I should use or avoid afterward?
- How does this treatment compare to other options for my concerns?
The aestheticians at Basil Beauty are incredibly knowledgeable and patient with questions. They actually seem to appreciate clients who are engaged in the process rather than just passively receiving treatments.
What to wear is something I didn’t consider initially. Now I go to my appointments in comfortable clothing with a top that’s easy to remove or pull down without messing up my hair (zip-up hoodies are perfect). Remember that you’ll be lying down for 45-90 minutes, so anything with buttons or stiff materials can get uncomfortable. I also skip the makeup entirely – they’re going to remove it anyway, and coming with a clean face gives them more time to focus on the actual treatment.
Planning around events and sun exposure is crucial for certain treatments. I learned this lesson when I scheduled an intensive peel just three days before a wedding. The post-peel flaking was still in full effect, and no amount of makeup could fully disguise it! Now I schedule more intensive treatments at least 7-10 days before any important events.
Sun exposure is another major consideration. The team at Basil Beauty strongly advises avoiding direct sun exposure for at least a week before and after certain treatments, particularly peels and any procedure that removes layers of the skin. This is because your skin will be more susceptible to damage and hyperpigmentation. I now check my calendar for any outdoor activities or vacations when scheduling my appointments.
Booking your appointment at Basil Beauty is surprisingly easy. Their online scheduling system lets you select your preferred date and time, and they typically send a confirmation text that includes pre-appointment instructions specific to your treatment. If you’re new to medical grade facials, I highly recommend booking a consultation first rather than jumping straight into a specific treatment.
Some other preparation tips I’ve picked up along the way:
- Stay well-hydrated for several days before your treatment. Properly hydrated skin responds better to treatments.
- Avoid alcohol the day before your appointment, as it can dehydrate your skin and increase sensitivity.
- If you’re prone to cold sores and are getting a treatment that could trigger an outbreak (like certain peels), let them know in advance. They may recommend prophylactic medication.
- For men, shave the day before rather than the day of treatment to avoid extra irritation.
- If you’re on any prescription medications, particularly those that can thin the skin (like steroids) or increase sensitivity, make sure to mention these during your consultation.
One aspect of preparation I particularly appreciate about Basil Beauty is their thorough intake process. Before my first visit, they had me complete a detailed health questionnaire that covered everything from allergies to current medications. This attention to detail helps them customize your treatment and avoid potential adverse reactions.
For those who experience anxiety about skincare treatments (I used to get so nervous!), they offer options to help you feel more comfortable. Some clients bring headphones to listen to podcasts or music during their treatment. They also have stress balls available if you’re worried about discomfort during extractions.
Remember that medical grade facials are an investment in your skin’s health. Taking these preparation steps seriously will help ensure you get the maximum benefit from each treatment. The team at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop at 4911 West 38th Street in Indianapolis is always happy to answer questions about how to properly prepare for your specific treatment.
Aftercare Tips to Maximize Your Medical Grade Facial Results
The treatment might be over, but your role in the process is just beginning! I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that what you do after a medical grade facial is just as important as the treatment itself. The right aftercare can extend and enhance your results, while the wrong moves can diminish them or even cause problems.
Immediate post-treatment care is crucial. Right after my first intensive treatment at Basil Beauty and Barber Shop, I was ready to dash out to run errands. The aesthetician gently stopped me and explained that my skin barrier was temporarily compromised and needed protection. For the first 24-48 hours after most medical grade facials, your skin needs gentle treatment – think of it as being in recovery mode.
I’ve developed a post-facial routine that works wonders. First, I avoid touching my face (harder than it sounds when your skin feels amazingly smooth!). Your hands carry bacteria that can cause breakouts on freshly treated skin. I also skip makeup completely for at least 24 hours if possible. When my skin has undergone extractions or chemical exfoliation, it needs time to breathe and heal without pore-clogging products.
The products you use immediately after treatment matter tremendously. The team at Basil Beauty provides specific aftercare instructions based on your treatment, but generally, you’ll want to focus on gentle cleansing and intense hydration. They recommended a super gentle cleanser and a hyaluronic acid serum followed by a ceramide-rich moisturizer after my treatments. These products support your skin’s healing process without irritating freshly treated skin.
Just as important are the products to avoid post-treatment. After learning this lesson the painful way, I now strictly avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids (like glycolic or salicylic), vitamin C serums, and physical scrubs for at least 3-7 days following a treatment, depending on its intensity. These can irritate your skin when it’s in its vulnerable healing state. I also temporarily discontinue any acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or other potentially irritating ingredients.
Sun protection becomes non-negotiable after a medical grade facial – and I mean serious protection! Your skin is more vulnerable to UV damage after most treatments, especially those involving exfoliation. I learned to apply broad-spectrum SPF 30-50 religiously and reapply every two hours when outdoors. I also wear a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade when possible for the first week after treatments. One time I got careless about sun protection after a peel and ended up with a patch of hyperpigmentation that took months to fade!
The team at Basil Beauty emphasizes that proper aftercare extends your results significantly. They recommend continuing with a simplified but effective home care routine using products that complement your in-office treatments. For me, this includes a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, moisturizer appropriate for my skin type, and sunscreen during the day. At night, I gradually reintroduce active ingredients as my skin recovers, usually starting around day 4-7 post-treatment.
Knowing when to schedule follow-up treatments is another key to maximizing results. For most concerns, a series of treatments yields better results than a single session. The aestheticians at Basil Beauty create customized treatment plans based on your specific goals and skin condition. For my acne-prone skin with early signs of aging, they recommended a series of six treatments spaced three weeks apart, followed by maintenance treatments every 8-12 weeks.
The timing between treatments matters too. Scheduling them too close together can irritate your skin, while waiting too long can diminish the cumulative benefits. The team at Basil Beauty bases their recommendations on how your skin responds to each treatment, adjusting the timing as needed. I appreciate their flexible approach rather than a rigid schedule that doesn’t consider individual healing times.
Hydration and nutrition play supporting roles in extending your results. I notice a definite difference in my skin’s appearance when I stay well-hydrated in the days following a treatment. I aim for at least 80 ounces of water daily and limit dehydrating beverages like alcohol and excessive caffeine. The aestheticians at Basil Beauty also suggest foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to support skin healing and health.
Basil Beauty and Barber Shop offers several complementary services that enhance facial results. Their specialized neck and décolleté treatments address these often-neglected areas that can age even faster than the face. They also provide customized masks and skin boosters that can be used between treatments to maintain results.
I’ve found their take-home treatment kits particularly helpful for extending the benefits of in-office procedures. After my series of brightening treatments, they created a custom kit with professional-grade products to use weekly at home. These aren’t as intense as the in-office versions but help maintain the improvements between visits.
Sleep becomes even more important after treatments too. I prioritize getting 7-8 hours on clean pillowcases (I change mine every other day after treatments) and try to sleep on my back to avoid pressure on freshly treated skin. The recovery and regeneration that happens during sleep enhances the results of your facial treatments.
Perhaps most importantly, patience is essential. Some treatments show immediate results, while others reveal their benefits gradually as your skin heals and regenerates. The team at Basil Beauty sets realistic expectations about timelines for improvement, which has helped me avoid frustration when results aren’t instantaneous.
While it might seem like a lot to remember, these aftercare steps quickly become second nature. The team at Basil Beauty provides written aftercare instructions after each treatment, and they’re always available to answer questions by phone or text if you’re unsure about something. Their commitment to your skin doesn’t end when you walk out the door – they truly partner with you in the entire process.
By following proper aftercare protocols, I’ve been able to maintain and enhance the improvements in my skin from medical grade facial treatments. The investment in time and attention pays off in longer-lasting, more dramatic results.
Conclusion
When I first started exploring medical grade facials, I had no idea how transformative they would be for both my skin and my confidence. The difference between these clinical treatments and regular spa facials is truly night and day when it comes to addressing specific skin concerns and creating lasting change.
The combination of professional-strength ingredients, advanced technologies, and expert customization makes medical grade facials powerful tools in your skincare arsenal. Whether you’re battling stubborn acne like I was, trying to fade hyperpigmentation, or looking to address signs of aging, these treatments can create improvements that simply aren’t possible with over-the-counter products alone.
If you’re in Indianapolis, Basil Beauty and Barber Shop at 4911 West 38th Street stands out as a premier destination for these specialized treatments. Their team’s expertise, personalized approach, and commitment to continued education ensures you receive the most effective and up-to-date protocols for your specific skin concerns.
Remember that great skin is a journey, not a destination. The best results come from a consistent approach that combines professional treatments with appropriate home care and lifestyle habits. Be patient with the process and celebrate the improvements along the way.
I encourage you to book a consultation to discover what medical grade facials could do for your unique skin concerns. The team at Basil Beauty will create a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific goals while respecting your budget and lifestyle considerations. Your future self (and skin!) will thank you for taking this step.
What experiences have you had with professional skin treatments? Have you found certain approaches particularly effective for your skin concerns? Share your thoughts in the comments below – I’d love to hear about your skincare journey!
