The holidays have a way of sneaking up on us.
One minute you’re enjoying fall in Connecticut, and the next you’re scheduling family photos, making Thanksgiving plans, and realizing holiday parties are right around the corner.
And somewhere in the middle of all that, you might be thinking, “I’d love to look a little more refreshed before the holidays.”
We get it! But here’s something we always want our patients to know: not every aesthetic treatment works on the same timeline. Some deliver a beautiful glow quickly, while others take weeks or months to show their full results.
Here’s how to plan ahead.
6–8 Weeks Before: Laser Treatments and Microneedling
If you’re considering laser resurfacing or microneedling, planning ahead is important.
Treatments like MOXI, BBL, and microneedling can help improve skin texture, pigmentation, and overall skin quality, but results develop over time. Depending on the treatment, you may experience redness, swelling, or temporary sensitivity. Some treatments also work best as a series.
Our advice? Give your skin plenty of time to recover before an important event.
3–4 Weeks Before: Botox, Dysport, and Filler
Wrinkle relaxers like Botox® and Dysport® don’t work instantly. Results develop over several days and can take approximately two weeks to fully appear.
Scheduling your appointment a few weeks before an event gives everything time to settle.
Dermal filler requires some planning, too. Although results are often visible immediately, swelling and bruising can occur, and final results may take several weeks.
Especially if you’re trying injectables for the first time, avoid scheduling them right before holiday photos or parties.
We want you to look refreshed - not like you just had something done.
1–2 Weeks Before: Hydration and Glow
Getting closer to your holiday festivities?
This is a great time to consider a HydraFacial® or customized facial. These treatments can help address dullness, dehydration, and congestion while leaving your skin looking smoother and more radiant. Even gentler treatments can occasionally cause temporary irritation, so leave yourself a little buffer, especially if it’s your first appointment.
Sometimes a beautiful glow is exactly what you need!
A Few Days Before: Keep It Simple
Here’s something you might not expect us to say: Sometimes the best thing to do right before an event is nothing new. Skip experimenting with strong exfoliants, unfamiliar skincare products, or aggressive treatments. Instead, focus on hydration, sunscreen, and the products you already know your skin loves.
This will help ensure your skin is healthy and clear!
What About Long-Term Results?
Not every treatment needs to be tied to a holiday deadline.
Treatments like Sculptra® gradually stimulate collagen production, making them better suited for long-term planning than last-minute preparation. And sometimes, the best results come from a consistent skincare routine and a personalized treatment plan rather than squeezing everything into December.
Let’s Get Holiday-Ready!
Whether you’re preparing for family photos, holiday parties, or simply want to feel refreshed heading into winter, we’re here to help.
At Polished, we believe your aesthetic treatments should fit your goals, lifestyle, and timeline.
Schedule a consultation at Polished MedSpa and let’s create a plan that works specifically for you - giving it the time it deserves.
XO, Lauren