A client receiving her first facial at Uneka in Lodi, California

Booking a first facial is easy to overthink. Here’s exactly what happens at Uneka, so you can walk in knowing what to expect and get the most from your visit.

The treatment, step by step

Every first facial follows the same clear order. Traci adjusts the products and intensity to your skin, but the structure stays consistent:

  1. Consultation. A short conversation about your skin concerns, your goals, and any allergies or sensitivities.
  2. Cleansing. A gentle cleanse to remove makeup, oil, and the day’s buildup.
  3. Exfoliation. Mechanical or chemical exfoliation lifts dead surface cells and reveals smoother skin.
  4. Extraction. If your skin needs it, clogged pores and blackheads are cleared with sterilized tools.
  5. Massage. A relaxing facial and neck massage to boost circulation and help you unwind.
  6. Mask. A mask chosen for your skin’s needs that day.
  7. Moisturize and protect. A finish with moisturizer and SPF to keep skin hydrated and shielded.

How to prepare

A little prep makes a real difference in your results:

  • Hydrate. Drink water in the hours before your visit so your skin is plump and responsive.
  • Arrive early. Get there about 10 minutes ahead to fill out any paperwork and settle in.
  • Speak up. Tell Traci about your concerns, goals, and anything that has reacted badly before.
  • Dress comfortably. Wear something that gives easy access to your neck and shoulders.

What to avoid beforehand

To get the most from the treatment — and to keep your skin calm:

  • Heavy makeup. Skip it on the day of your facial.
  • Strong at-home actives. Pause retinoids and acid exfoliants for 48 hours before your appointment.
  • Sun and tanning. Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for about a week beforehand.

A note on hygiene

You should expect a spotless treatment room, sterilized tools, gloved hands during extractions, and professional-grade products throughout. These aren’t extras — they’re the baseline for safe, effective skin care.

When you’re ready, request an appointment or call the studio. New clients are always welcome.

Common questions

What happens during a first facial?

It follows a set order: a consultation about your skin, a gentle cleanse, exfoliation to remove dead cells, extractions if needed to clear clogged pores, a relaxing massage, a custom mask, and a finish with moisturizer and SPF.

How should I prepare for a facial?

Drink plenty of water beforehand, arrive about 10 minutes early for paperwork, come ready to talk through your skin concerns and goals, and wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your neck and shoulders.

What should I avoid before a facial?

Skip heavy makeup on the day, stop strong at-home actives like retinoids or acid exfoliants 48 hours before, and avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for about a week so your skin is calm and not sensitized.

How long does a facial take?

It depends on the treatment. Express services run about 30 minutes, most facials 45 to 60 minutes, and a full custom facial with massage is 90 minutes.

Ready to book your appointment?

Tell Traci about your skin and she’ll recommend the right treatment. By appointment only — new clients welcome.