What is a facial or back facial?
A facial involves the intense cleaning, exfoliating, masking, massaging and moisturizing of the face or back.
Benefits
Benefits of a facial begin with a deep cleansing of the skin and pores while exfoliating the skin of any dead skin cells. This process allows for the skin to breathe and rejuvenate itself with the replenishment of new skin cells.
Maintaining clean skin and clear pores can eliminate acne and black heads as well as reduce the size of the pores. The result provides a younger appearance with healthy, glowing skin.
As with all massage services and spa treatments, facials are appropriate for both genders. Many places that offer facials also offer treatments designed just for men, such as the “Gentleman’s Facial.”
What happens during a facial
What happens during a facial will vary depending on what type of facial you are having and how long the treatment is. There are many types of facials to choose from and are generally available in 25, 50 and 80-minute time slots.
Each location will have their own specialty treatments and names for them. The specifics that differ between facials are primarily in the products used and the objective of the facial.
Always confirm details of the treatment you desire and the length of time when booking your service. The following is the basic procedure of what to expect.
Your esthetician will guide you through which treatment you should have for your skin type and condition. Please note that they might suggest something other than what you have selected based on their expertise and your skin.
The spa facial
The spa facial, aside from the basic routine for the face, will usually consist of some massage. Depending on the length of time allowed and treatment selected, a neck massage along with the hands and occasionally the feet will be included.
In most places, you will only be asked to remove your top and you will be covered (unless its a back facial). Privacy will be provided while you undress.
First, your esthetician will clean the back or face and neck to remove makeup and prepare the area. Then they will assess the general condition of the skin while examining under a bright light. If laying face up, you will have eye pads over your eyes.
Next, they will exfoliate the skin while applying a steam vapor, followed by the extraction of blackheads. Some people opt out of the extractions on the face and some entities do charge extra for this service.
If you choose facial extractions as part of your experience, confirm whether or not it is included in the cost. If you do not want them, tell your provider.
After the extractions, a massage will follow to stimulate your skin and muscles. Next, a mask will be applied that has been selected according to your skin type: dry, oily, combination, sensitive or mature.
The mask will be left on for several minutes. During this time, the massage portion will take place. After the allotted time, the mask will be removed.
The final step is the application of toners and creams to tone, moisturize and protect your skin. Before sending you back into the real world, your esthetician will provide information and suggestions for home care.
For best results, you will want to maintain a cleansing program to continue the benefits of those used during your facial at home.
After your treatment and when to get a facial
After your spa facial treatment, your skin will have a definite glow. It will be rejuvenated and refreshed. Your skin will feel smooth, silky and brand new!
If you chose to have extractions, you may have some redness. This will pass quickly. Allow your skin to breathe for the rest of the day by avoiding the application of makeup.
Drink plenty of water to rehydrate your skin. Proper hydration is a very important detail to maintain healthy, youthful skin.
When to get a facial will depend on the individual, their lifestyle and skin type. Consult your practitioner for your specific needs.
In general, every 4-6 weeks is an excellent regimen to follow. If you have a skin condition or are battling acne, consult your esthetician or dermatologist.
If you opt for four times annually, arrange an appointment at the change of seasons. That way your skin will be refreshed for the upcoming weather changes.
If your treatment is the back facial, consult your esthetician for frequency recommendations.
Categories for Facial Treatment
Alternative Therapies
Beauty Treatments
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