Treatments & the salon
What to expect at your first skin consultation
Reviewed by Cassidy, aesthetic therapist · Updated · 3 min read
The short answer
A skin consultation is a short, in-person appointment where a therapist asks about your skin, health and routine, examines your skin closely and then recommends a plan of treatments and home products. At MAIÈ the consultation is free and takes about 15 minutes. Bring a list of what you use and any medication, and arrive with clean skin if you can.
Key points
- A consultation is about understanding your skin before anything is recommended.
- Your therapist will ask about your health, medication, routine and goals, and examine your skin.
- You should leave with a clear roadmap of treatments and products, and no pressure to book.
- It is also the right time for a patch test before a peel or microneedling.
If you have never had professional skin treatment, a consultation is the best place to begin. It is relaxed, it is free at MAIÈ, and it means that everything recommended afterwards is based on your actual skin rather than guesswork.
Why start with a consultation?
Skin that looks similar can need very different care. Two people with redness might have a weakened skin barrier in one case and a reaction to a product in the other. A consultation lets a trained therapist work out what is really going on, check whether any treatments are unsuitable for you right now, and suggest a plan that fits your skin, your budget and your time.
What happens during the consultation?
At MAIÈ your consultation takes about 15 minutes, in person. It usually covers four things.
1. Your story
We will ask what you would like to change, how long it has been a concern and what you have tried. This is your chance to tell us what matters most to you.
2. Your health and lifestyle
Some questions may feel personal, but they are important for your safety:
- Medication, including prescription skin or acne treatments and blood thinners
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea or acne
- Allergies and past reactions
- Recent treatments, including peels, lasers or injectables
- How much time you spend in the sun
3. Looking at your skin
Your therapist will examine your skin closely under good light, looking at oil and hydration levels, texture, congestion, pigmentation, sensitivity and how your skin tends to respond to the sun. This helps identify your skin type and any temporary conditions, such as dehydration.
4. Your plan
Finally, you will get a roadmap: which treatments are likely to help, in what order, how often, and which home products will support them. A good plan is realistic. It should also be honest about what treatments cannot do.
What should you bring?
- A list of the skincare products you use, or photos of them on your phone
- A list of any medication or supplements
- Any questions you want to ask
- Clean skin, if possible, so your therapist can see it clearly
What questions should you ask?
- What do you think is causing my main concern?
- Which treatment would you start with, and why?
- How many sessions am I likely to need, and how far apart?
- What downtime should I plan for?
- What should I change in my routine at home?
- Is there anything I should stop using?
Do you need a patch test?
If you are considering a chemical peel or microneedling, a patch test is recommended for first-time clients. A small amount of product is applied to a discreet area so your skin's reaction can be checked before a full treatment. Your consultation is a good moment to arrange it.
Will you be pressured to book?
You should never feel pressured. A consultation is about information. You can go away, think about it and book when you are ready. Sometimes the best recommendation is simply a better home routine and daily sunscreen.
Questions we’re often asked
How much does a consultation cost at MAIÈ?
It is free. It takes about 15 minutes and happens in person at the salon.
Do I need a consultation before a facial?
Every MAIÈ treatment begins with its own short consultation and skin analysis, so you can book a facial directly. A separate consultation is ideal if you are unsure which treatment to choose.
Should I wear makeup to my consultation?
It is best to come with clean skin so your therapist can see it properly. If you are coming from work, we can cleanse your skin first.
Can I do a consultation for my teenager?
Yes. Consultations are a great way to start teenagers on a sensible, gentle routine.
What if I'm not suitable for a treatment?
Your therapist will explain why and suggest a safe alternative, or when it might become suitable.
This article is general information to help you understand your skin and your options. It isn’t a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are pregnant, on medication or have a skin condition, speak to your doctor, and always tell your therapist about your health history before a treatment.
