Your Guide to Facials

shutterstock_57017042 (1)If you have never had a facial treatment before you may have several questions such as: what is a facial and why do I need one? What type of facial is best for me? What should I expect after a facial?

A facial is a cosmetic procedure in which the skin is deeply cleansed, exfoliated, and massaged and can only be performed by a licensed esthecian. The purpose of a facial is to rejuvenate the skin, remove impurities, and increase circulation. Before booking a facial, you should know what to expect. The first thing your esthetician will do is a full consultation. You may be asked to fill out a consultation form with questions about your skin and health history. Your esthetician will ask you questions about your current skincare routine, what your skin concerns are, and what you are looking to achieve. The next step is a thorough skin analysis. Your skin will be examined under a magnifying lamp where your esthetician will look at your skin up close and determine which treatment will be best for you. Your skin may also be examined under a Wood’s lamp, which is a hand held device that uses a black light to illuminate areas of the face that would otherwise be difficult to see. The Wood’s lamp can show bacterial infections in the skin or underlying hyperpigmentation; your esthetician will determine which skincare protocol and treatments will address those concerns. After careful analysis, your treatment will begin with a thorough skin cleansing followed by a deep exfoliation. Your skin will then be prepped for extractions using a desincrustation solution and steam, which will soften the skin and allow for proper blackhead removal. Extractions can be uncomfortable, but shouldn’t be painful. Always inform your esthetician if you’re feeling any pain during your facial. Immediately following your extractions, the skin will be toned and desincrustation solution will be removed. Your skin will then be massaged using essential oils appropriate for your skin type. After massage, a facial mask will be applied to address specific concerns and will be allowed to absorb for about 10 minutes. After the mask is removed, your esthetician will then massage skincare products on your skin and will give you instructions on how to properly care for your skin post facial.  A skincare protocol will be recommended in order for you to care for your skin at home and  you should expect to have your next facial within 3-4 weeks. A regular series of facials will give you the best results.

It can be a bit confusing when choosing which type of facial to get. Generally, there are anti-aging, deep cleansing and sensitive skin facials. So how do you know what to choose? The type of facial that would be best suited for you truly depends on your skin type and concern. Your esthetician can help determine which facial is best for you. All facials are able to be customized to your specific needs. No skin is identical therefore no facial will be identical.

After a facial your skin is deeply cleansed, exfoliated and massaged; circulation is increased which can cause some flushing or temporary mild redness. You should also expect your skin to go through mild detox which might cause a few small breakouts and is completely normal. Avoid picking at these breakouts as it can cause scarring.  After your facial you should avoid applying anything to your skin until the next morning, this includes water; do not wash your face until the next morning. Try not to use any at home peels or retinoid products for at least 3 days after your facial; avoid steam, sauna, or working out after a facial. Your skin has already been exfoliated and massaged and you do not want to over exfoliate or over stimulate your skin. Make sure to avoid prolonged sun exposure, and apply plenty of sunscreen when outdoors. And lastly, avoid applying any makeup for the rest of the day. Your skin will have a glow and radiance that you will not want to cover with makeup.

Proper care of the skin is a partnership between you and your esthetician. You should consistently take care of your skin to maintain the results of the facial in order for you to have the long term  results you desire.  As long as you follow the aftercare instructions, use the skincare products recommended and continue to see your esthetician on a monthly basis, you should expect to see your skin improve overtime.

To view our list of facials and other spa services, click here.