Do I have to shave before a facial and if not, how soon afterwards can I shave?
First, how smart of you to take care of yourself. Men needs facials even more than women, so congratulations on wanting to incorporate facials into your health routine. Generally speaking, few men even put sun block on to protect against skin cancer. Your lives are constantly exposed to the sun and wind which are the culprits in aging and damaged skin. A monthly facial can reduce the effects of sun and wind exposure.
Second, you can shave before a facial if you like but if your skin is sensitive, I would postpone it until after the facial. An hour long facial has a series of steps that include a cleanse, an exfoliating mask (which removes dead skin cells), extractions (if necessary and requested), an unbelievable head, neck and shoulder massage, a mask in accordance to skin type and finishing with a deep moisturizing series. Men are getting facials during the summer months but need it just as much during the winter. Nothing is worse on the face than the cold wind followed by over heated offices and public areas.
Finally, we strongly recommend getting a facial at least every season (there are four), followed by a mini-facial in between if you are a super athletic guy…riding bikes, skiing and sailing. The sun exposure from these sports will age you beyond your years if you do not take care of your skin. And seriously, if you are out there keeping your body in great shape working out…why wouldn't you take care of your skin as well?