What is a Facial?
Seems like a simple question, but not a lot of people know what steps should be included. Any service of an hour or more should include the following steps:

Analysis - your skin will be evaluated for different skin conditions such as level of oil production, blackheads and loss of elasticity. You should be told what conditions are found and what type of treatment you will be receiving. Also during this time, you may be asked about allergies and sensitivities you have had with products in the past.

Cleansing - a thorough wash of the skin. In most cases it is a two step process.
* Step one is usually a pre-cleanse, using a more gentle cleanser, that removes surface debris.
* Step two is a more extensive cleanse that targets a specific issue that you may have.

Exfoliation - the exact definition of exfoliation, according to the Milady's Standard, is "the peeling or sloughing of the outer layer of the skin." What that means is the removal of excessive dirt and dead skin that keeps debris in the pores. Also, during this process, the debris trapped in the pore is softened for easy removal (see Extractions). There are two types of exfoliation:
* Mechanical - more traditionally known as a "scrub", uses fine particles to buff the debris off the skin.
* Chemical - uses products with penetrating ingredients to help digest the dead cells off the surface & dissolve the "glue" that holds these dead cells together. Usually called a "peel" or exfoliating mask.

Extraction - the removal of blackheads and oil from the pores by pressing and squeezing the fingers on either side of the pore and manually pushing the debris out. One of the only uncomfortable parts of the facial, but also one that gets the biggest results.

Massage - flowing and relaxing movements to the face and décolleté. Penetrating products can be used to further the therapeutic effects of the treatment. Many times, the shoulder and upper back will be included in the massage portion. If you suffer from acne, your massage will be limited since excessive pressure and rubbing can cause blemishes to "pop" and bacteria to spread.

Treatment Masks - product to be left on your skin for a period of time that is selected specifically to work on a skin condition that is present.

Is there anything my esthetician needs to know?
Yes. We should know if you are currently under a dermatologist or any doctor's care, what medications you are currently taking and if you have any allergies. These three things can drastically alter the type of treatment you will receive and products that will be used. On your first visit, you should be given a questionnaire to complete; however, with each return visit, you should make sure you inform your esthetician of any changes.

What should I do to prepare for my appointment?
A lot of clients think they need to wash their face, but it is better for the esthetician to feel the type of oil production that your skin has naturally. Make-up is easily removed; however, wearing multiple coats of mascara or waterproof eyeliner, if you know you will be receiving a facial, is not recommended.
The only thing that is important is that you arrive to your appointment on time, especially if it is your first visit to the spa. More than likely you will have to fill out an information form, regarding your health & skin conditions which will take time, and each spa allocates a certain length of time to get this done, get you changed, and on the facial table for the service. Arriving late will most likely shorten the length of the facial to ensure that the next appointment starts on time.

Will I break out afterward?
No one can tell you that you absolutely will not have a breakout after your appointment. If you are concerned or had a bad experience, let your esthetician know before she/he begins. It is important to be specific, though. Blanket statements, such as "I always breakout" or "I've never used a product that didn't make me break out" or "I've had reactions to everything" will result in you having the most basic gentle treatment, with no extractions, possibly no steam and no treatment masks. Try to remember at which spas you have had bad experiences and which product lines have given you issues.
Most of the time, you will not have any issues and leave with skin that is glowing and healthy. However, if you do have a breakout, it shouldn't be more than a blemish or two. If you develop multiple breakout areas or blemishes in areas that you usually don't get them, let your esthetician know so adjustments can be made.

Can I still get this service if I'm pregnant?
Absolutely, although you should let your esthetician know so the following can be avoided:
* Aromatherapy
* Products with large amounts of anti-acne and anti-aging products
* Vigorous massage, especially on the hands and feet.
These things are very stimulating and should be avoided, especially during the first trimester. If you are an "at risk" pregnancy or have any concerns, definitely speak with your doctor about it before booking the appointment.

 Soothing Experience