When should a client be advised to avoid the sun after a facial?

The recommendation for clients to avoid the sun immediately after a chemical peel or intense treatment is crucial due to the increased sensitivity of the skin following such procedures. After a facial, particularly those that involve chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or other intense treatments, the skin barrier can be compromised, making it more susceptible to sun damage.

Exposing freshly treated skin to UV rays can lead to increased irritation, hyperpigmentation, and potentially adverse reactions like sunburn. This heightened sensitivity is due to the fact that the exfoliation or chemical reaction alters the outer layer of the skin, leaving it less protected against environmental aggressors. Therefore, advising clients to avoid sun exposure directly after these types of facials helps to promote healing and maintain the results of the treatment.

While suggesting sun protection is necessary after any facial to some extent, the immediate post-treatment period, especially after chemical peels or significant interventions, is when clients are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of the sun.