If you’ve never had a professional facial before, we get it — it can feel like stepping into the unknown. What will they do to my face? Will it hurt? Do I need to bring anything? But don't worry, we’ve been guiding first-timers through their very first facial since 2019, and the number one thing we hear afterward is: “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
Whether you’ve been curious about facials for a while or someone gifted you a session (lucky you), here’s a list of what to expect when you walk through our doors in Old Town Pasadena.
Before You Arrive
The best thing you can do before your first facial is…get excited. Come with a relatively clean face if you can, but don’t stress about it, we are happy to remove your makeup after a long day of work. Skip any new skincare products in the 48 hours leading up to your appointment, and avoid heavy exfoliation or at-home peels. If you’re on any prescription skincare (like tretinoin or adapalene), let us know when you book so your Glow Giver can plan accordingly. We will also go over this before your facial.
One thing we love about our Pasadena location: free 90-minute parking is available right across the street in the School House Lot at Green and Raymond. One less thing to worry about.
Check-In and Your Skin Assessment
When you arrive at Cheeks + Co and after you check in online, you’ll be greeted by our team and shown to your treatment room. Your Glow Giver (that’s what we call our estheticians — because that’s exactly what they do) will start with a conversation about your skin. What’s been going on? What bothers you? What are your goals? There are no wrong answers, and there’s zero judgment. We see every skin type, every concern, every age, every background. That’s the beauty of what we do. Sleep in your makeup? No problem! We mean it when we say there is zero judgement. We meet you where you are in your skincare journey.
This assessment isn’t just small talk. It directly shapes every product and technique used in your session. Every facial at Cheeks + Co is fully customized, which means no two treatments are exactly alike.
The Facial Itself: Step by Step
Cleanse
Your Glow Giver will start with a thorough cleanse to remove any makeup, sunscreen, oil, and environmental buildup. This is the foundation of everything that follows.
Exfoliation
Depending on your skin’s needs, this could be a gentle enzyme treatment, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, or a light chemical exfoliant. Your esthetician will choose the approach that matches your skin type and sensitivity level.
Extractions
Yes, extractions are included in every facial — if your skin needs them. We use our signature steam-free oil technique, which is the most painless and effective way to clear your pores. Clients are genuinely surprised by how comfortable this part is.
Treatment
This is where the real customization happens. Your Glow Giver may use LED light therapy, high frequency, a hydrating mask, Gua Sha massage, or a combination — all selected based on your skin assessment. If you booked The Undecided (our most popular facial), this is where your esthetician’s expertise really shines and they pick a facial for you.
Massage
Every facial includes a relaxing neck and shoulder massage. It’s our clients’ favorite part, and honestly, it’s reason enough to book.
Finishing Products and SPF
We’ll finish with targeted serums, moisturizer, and SPF application to protect your freshly glowing skin. Every product we use meets our clean beauty standards and has been vetted against our No-Glow List of ingredients we refuse to put on your skin.
Does It Hurt?
Not at all. Facials should feel relaxing, even during extractions. Some treatments involve a slight tingling (like a chemical exfoliant or high frequency), but nothing that should be uncomfortable. If anything ever feels like too much, just say the word. Your Glow Giver will adjust immediately.
What Happens After Your Facial
You’ll leave with noticeably glowing, hydrated skin. Some clients see an immediate improvement in texture and brightness. Your esthetician will walk you through personalized product recommendations and a home care routine to keep that glow going between visits.
For optimal results, we recommend scheduling a facial every four to six weeks, which aligns with your skin’s natural renewal cycle. Our membership program makes this easy and affordable, starting at $150 per month for a full 60-minute facial.
First-Timer Tip
Not sure which facial to book? Go with The Undecided Facial. It’s our most popular treatment for a reason — your Glow Giver assesses your skin on the spot and chooses the perfect facial for you, right then and there. No guesswork, no pressure.
And if you’re a brand new client, use code GLOWGETTER at booking to take $20 off your first facial.
Ready to experience your first facial? Book online at cheeks.co or call us at 800-955-0469. We can’t wait to meet your skin.
How long does a facial take?
Our signature facials are 60 or 90 minutes. We also offer a 30-minute dermaplaning session and a 20-minute express facial for when you’re short on time.
Can I wear makeup after my facial?
We recommend letting your skin breathe for the rest of the day if possible, but it’s not a strict rule. Your esthetician will apply SPF before you leave, so you’re protected.
Is a facial good for acne-prone skin?
Absolutely. We customize every treatment based on your skin’s needs. If you’re dealing with active breakouts, let us know when booking and we’ll pair you with the right treatment and Glow Giver.
