Ask the studio whether your booked facial includes make-up removal and what, if anything, you should remove beforehand. If you need make-up earlier that day, explain what you will be wearing and leave enough time for the preparation that is actually agreed.
Confirm the removal arrangements for your particular appointment before travelling.
Say what you will be wearing
Mention foundation, concealer, powder, sunscreen, setting products and anything water-resistant around your eyes. Product names or label photographs can help if the practitioner needs to check a particular item.
Also mention your skincare and prescribed topicals, especially exfoliants or retinoids. This is a separate question from whether visible make-up needs removing. The AAD warns against duplicating active ingredients in a mask when they are already present in your home routine. [1]
A useful message is: “I will be coming from work wearing foundation and waterproof mascara. Is removal included, and should I do anything before I arrive?”
Confirm the service and timing
Ask whether face cleansing and eye make-up removal are included, whether extra time is needed and whether any additional charge applies. If the answer is to arrive without make-up, ask when and where you should remove it given your plans earlier that day.
Do not assume you can use a studio sink, borrow a cleanser or arrive early for self-preparation unless that has been confirmed. If you cannot meet the agreed preparation, contact the studio before travelling.
For current arrangements at Luté Beauty Studio in Lilayi, Lusaka, use +260 772 655 231 by phone or WhatsApp. [2] Its contact details do not establish what is included in a particular facial.
Treat the eye area as a specific question
Tell the practitioner about eye irritation, a recent infection, contact lenses and any lash products that may affect removal. Ask what the actual products and procedure require; do not assume that contact lenses must always be removed for every facial step.
FDA consumer guidance says to use only cosmetics intended for the eye area near the eyes. It also says not to add saliva or water to mascara and to discard eye make-up used during an eye infection. [3] These precautions do not turn a salon appointment into treatment for an eye problem. Seek appropriate healthcare advice about active or persistent eye symptoms before proceeding.
If you are asked to cleanse beforehand
Use the method that has been agreed and the product's instructions. AAD everyday cleansing guidance recommends a gentle non-abrasive cleanser, lukewarm water and fingertips, followed by gentle patting dry with a soft towel. Avoid scrubbing to force off a resistant product. [4]
If you need to bring your own items, ask what is needed and pack familiar products in their own clean, closed containers. Wash your hands before using cosmetics and follow their warnings. [5] Do not introduce an unfamiliar exfoliant simply to make your face feel “extra clean”.
If a product stings or causes a reaction, report that rather than covering it with more make-up to meet an arrival preference. The AAD advises washing off a mask that causes itching, burning or stinging. [6]
Save a make-up-on arrival card
- Appointment, agreed arrival time and preparation time: ____________________
- Face products I expect to be wearing: ____________________
- Eye make-up, contact lenses or lash products to mention: ____________________
- Current skincare or prescribed treatments relevant to the appointment: ____________________
- Removal included, extra time or charge confirmed: ____________________
- What I should remove before arriving, and where: ____________________
- Familiar products or items the studio has asked me to bring: ____________________
- Symptoms or preparation questions still to resolve: ____________________
Use the confirmed answers for this booking; do not copy a preparation rule from a different facial or salon.