Should You Do DIY Facials or Skin Treatments at Home?

by Anna Wilemon, Laser Specialist

Should You Do DIY Facials or Skin Treatments at Home?

This is a loaded question, and I have a lot to say so grab a notepad, settle in, and let’s talk about it!

I’m a big fan of DIY projects. For example, I’ve redone my own closet doors—and if I messed them up, I could always fix or replace them. But our skin isn’t quite the same. Unlike closet doors, we don’t get an easy “do-over.” That’s why it’s important to know what’s safe to try at home and what’s better left to the professionals. Let’s break it down into some “hard no’s” and some safe, effective options you can DIY for glowing, healthy skin at home.

The DIY Hard No’s

• Beef Tallow
  • Beef tallow has gained popularity online, and while it can be hydrating for the body, it isn’t always safe for the face. For many skin types, it may lead to clogged pores, acne, milia, or irritation. If it works for you, great—but be aware of the possible complications.
• At-Home Microneedling / Roller
  • We all want smaller pores and better product absorption, but at-home microneedling tools aren’t the answer. Without proper training, these devices can cause microtears in the skin. True collagen induction requires precise depth into the epidermis and dermis—something only a professional can achieve safely (and with numbing for comfort). This is one treatment best left to the office.
• Extractions
  • We’ve all been there standing in front of a 10x mirror, tempted to squeeze every blackhead in sight. But extractions at home often spread bacteria, leave behind redness, and create more breakouts in the long run. Instead, book an express facial with one of our licensed aestheticians for safe, clean extractions.
• Chemical Peels
  • This one is a definite no. As licensed professionals, we undergo extensive training on peel ingredients, layering, and penetration depth. Chemical peels are powerful treatments that should only be done in-office. However, for safe at-home exfoliation, we offer SkinBetter Exfoliating Peel Pads—now available in a convenient travel pack for $30. These can be used 1–2 times per week for a gentle refresh.

*Safe DIY Options

While some treatments should always be left to professionals, a thoughtful at-home routine is essential for maintaining results between visits. Here’s a simple, effective “DIY facial” you can try at home:

1. Gentle Exfoliation – Start with Eminence Barbados Cherry Enzyme Cleansing Powder for a soft scrub/cleanse. This step preps your skin for maximum absorption.
2. Exfoliating Boost – Follow with SkinBetter Exfoliating Peel Pads (1–2 times per week).
3. Hydration & Nourishment – Finish with Eminence Facial Recovery Oil for a luxurious, radiant glow.

DIY skincare can absolutely be part of a healthy routine—but it’s important to know where to draw the line. Leave advanced treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, and extractions to your licensed providers. In between appointments, stick with safe, high-quality home care products to keep your skin glowing.

And remember: if you can’t make it into Midstate Aesthetics or Midstate Skin Institute for your facial, these curated at-home products are a great way to achieve noticeable results safely.