What is a Facial?

I get the question all the time "What is a Facial?" That is when I realized many people do not know what a facial is, and why it is important to our health and well being.

A facial is the process using a variety of professional skin care treatments, while allowing yourself time to relax and unwind. This is all done in one amazing session, or a series of weekly or monthly sessions. The treatment can be structured for maintaining general skin health, or can focus on helping specific skin conditions.

You can achieve healthy skin at home, but a professional is able to add the extra knowledge and professional products to customize the treatment to fit your specific skin needs. The average facial takes around 45-60 minutes. However the cost will depend on the specific treatments used during the service, and the area your spa is located in. A basic facial in a spa typically starts around $65. Adding microdermabrasion, LED, or other specialty treatments will add additional cost to the base price. (more information about the specialty treatments can be found in past and future blog post.)

Your facial begins with a consultation. This is when the esthetician can determine your skin type and find out if your medical history or any medications you are taking could effect your treatment.  This is also a time to discuss any concerns you may be experiencing with your skin. Once a plan has been decided on, the relaxation part begins.

You will be asked to change into a robe, and then get comfortable with a warm blanket on the treatment table. Essential oils and deep breaths are used to help you relax. Most facials include some or all of the following steps.
1. Cleansing- cleanser is used on the face, neck and decolletage to cleanse off make up and any traces of dirt. Sometimes 2 different cleansers are used depending on the concerns for this treatment.
2. Exfoliation- this is when dead skin cells are removed. This process can be done by hand, or microdermabrasion, even enzymes or peels.
3. Extractions- (if needed) when pores are clogged the dirt and oil can be removed by hand or using a special tool.
4. Massage- Sometimes a lymphatic massage is preformed to help improve lymphatic drainage.
5. Mask- Customized mask are used to help with specific skin conditions.
6. Toner- this helps bring pH balance back to the skin.
7. Serums and Moisturizers- These are also customized to your individual skin needs.
8. SPF

The treatment leaves your face glowing and you are typically very relaxed. This helps with your overall health and wellness. Men, women and teens can all benefit from regular facial appointments.
Razor burn, ingrown hair, acne, wrinkles, dry or oily skin, even medically challenged skin can benefit from a  professional facial.

Professional Skin Care Academy offers facials and many specialty treatments. Prices can be found on our website and our specials can be found watching our Facebook page. Visit past blog post and, keep a lookout for future blogs which will talk more about the specialty treatments available with your facials.