A facial is one of the best ways to take care of the largest organ of your body, your skin. The most effective facial is one given by an experienced, knowledgeable esthetician with special training in skin care in addition to one who is fastidious, and passionate about their work. A facial cleanses, exfoliates and nourishes the skin, promoting a clear, well-hydrated complexion, and can help your skin look younger in addition to addressing any ongoing issues that you cannot seem to manage on your own. A facial is not something you get once a year, but varies from person to person. Ideally, you should get a facial monthly because that’s how long it takes the skin to regenerate. At second best, try to have a facial at least four times a year, as the season changes. You may need to see your esthetician more frequently if you are trying to clear up a case of acne, hyperpigmentation or fine lines. A facial works better when it is part of a continuing program of skin care. Getting facial treatments regularly and practicing good at home care will almost guarantee great success at maintaining and improving your complexion.
The Basic Steps of a Facial
Consultation. A facial should begin with a consultation. If you are a new client, the esthetician let you have fill out a form that has questions about your skin concerns, your diet, how much water you drink, drugs and supplements you take, and products you are currently using for your face. This can affect your skin and what kind of treatments that is recommended.
Cleansing. After wrapping your hair with a towel or headband, the esthetician begins a facial with a thorough double cleansing.
Skin Analysis. The esthetician covers your eyes and looks at your skin through a brightly lit magnifying lamp. He or she is determining your basic skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive or normal) and skin conditions (acne, blackheads, whiteheads, aging, sun-damage, dehydration, etc.) The esthetician then chooses the appropriate products and treatment, and consults with you about what he or she sees and recommends.
Steam. Most facials use a machine that directs a thin vapor of warm steam to your face. This is relaxing and helps soften up any blackheads and whiteheads to be extracted later. If you have very sensitive skin, the esthetician may not use steam.
Exfoliation using mechanical or chemical exfoliant. Mechanical exfoliants have an uneven texture (micro-beads) that rubs away the surface dead skin cells. This type of exfoliation uses enzymes and acids to loosen the bond between skin cells. A gentle enzyme treatment can be done during the steam. Stronger chemical peels which vary in intensity, can be a stand alone treatment or part of the facial. It is not generally an “upgrade” but can be done in a series. It is not done with steam.
Extractions. This is a process of removing blackheads or whiteheads if you want it and need it. Cleanse and steam before extractions. Exfoliation makes extractions easier.
Facial massage using classic strokes like effleurage to both relax you and stimulate your skin and facial muscles.
A facial mask targeted to your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive, mature) and condition. During the mask which can be on the client’s face and neck between 10 to 20 minutes, depends on the treatment, the esthetician will massage your arms, hands and décolleté.
Final application of toner, serums, eye cream, moisturizer and sunscreen if it’s daytime.
Advice on home skin care. The Esthetician will tell you how she thinks you can better care of your skin and recommend products. Since you see your face more than your esthetician will, your practices at home will greatly determine the outcome of your goals. There is a relationship that requires both parties to do their part in order to garner the greatest effect.
I have been a holistic esthetician since 2009 and have worked in a variety of settings, from med-spa's, salons, barber shops and massage franchises in addition to owing my own space. I am super passionate about actually healing the skin from the outside and treating the client from the inside to prevent other ailments. I constantly am seeking new techniques and holistic remedies that are easy to manage and affordable, making vital skincare accessible to everyone. Using food as my main ingredients has been a joy and delight as the wonders of nature never fail! I offer consultations for those who are interested and can be booked and paid for online at www.adenlahandcraftedessentials.com
Let me assist you on your journey to amazing skin.