November 02, 2018

WHAT TO EXPECT FOR YOUR FIRST FACIAL?

If you want a clear, well-hydrated complexion and more youthful appearance, facials are a necessary addition to your skin care routine. Millions of people enjoy the relaxing, skin-improving features of a facial on a regular basis.

What does a facial do?
A professional facial is designed to help improve your skin and to help you relax. Facials are customized treatments for the face, neck and decolette that help prevent and treat common problems like acne, aging and hyperpigmentation, says Brianna Karavas, aesthetician at Julinda's Spa & Salon. Having a smooth, glowing complexion is only part of the allure; facials can also:

• Remove dead skin cells
• Improve the appearance of fine lines and blemishes
• Clear your pores
• Moisturize and hydrate

The end result? Healthier, younger looking skin.

What are some of the different types of facials?
Many brand, Dermalogica, offers their signature facials targeting various skin concerns, says Karavas. She notes that there are many types of different facials, each designed for a specific type of skin or concern. These are: deep cleansing facials, acne prevention facials, rejuvenating facials, anti-aging facials, brightening facials, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion facials.

How should you prepare for a facial?
Know what products you are currently using and what your main skin concerns are, says Karavas. This is your best way to ensure the results you want and avoid irritating your skin during or after the treatment.

Want to ensure full relaxation during your facial? Karavas recommends turning off your cell phone and enjoying the moment.

Julinda's Salon & Spa uses Dermalogica Professional Skincare products. Your treatment will begin by completing a short form allowing the aesthetician to get to know you and your skin care routine.

When you are comfortably on the treatment table, the Dermalogica trained technician will pre-cleanse your face, allowing her to evaluate your skin. This process is called Face Mapping. It discerns areas of concern and areas to concentrate on during the facial. It also determines what professional products will be utilized during the facial.

According to aesthetician Karavas, there will be a thorough cleansing, treatment with steam, extractions if necessary, a facial massage, a mask mixed specifically for your skin, facial serum and moisturizing to complete the treatment. During the facial, you will also be offered a hand, foot or scalp massage.


How do you care for your skin after a facial?
Post-treatment breakouts and irritation are possible if the products used were too harsh for your skin or if your pores weren't cleared and cleansed properly. To minimize redness and blemishes following a facial, you should always follow any specific instructions your aesthetician gives you and cleanse your skin with a gentle, non-comedogenic cream or foam. Also, it's best to skip toner for the first few washes after your facial; your freshly cleaned skin doesn't need it. Because your skin may feel sensitive following a facial, avoid harsh cleansers and vigorous scrubbing for 48 to 72 hours following your treatment.

What can you expect during your first facial?
Facials last an average of 60 minutes; however, what to expect largely depends on your skin. Your experience will depend upon the type of facial you want and your skin type. For example, some facials are designed to help improve certain skin concerns, like acne, and may include extraction (of blackheads/whiteheads) or chemical exfoliation. Others might just hydrate and nourish the skin through a series of steps.

Depending on the type of facial, Karavas explains that some tools may be used on your complexion such as high frequency, microdermabrasion and microcurrent to help enhance your results. She also adds that your aesthetician may provide knowledge on your skin type and how to maintain a proper home care regime.

Best of all? You will leave the spa with a smoother texture, proper hydration, glowing complexion, fewer breakouts and firmer skin, says Karavas.

When should you avoid a facial?
As with any treatment, it's best to check with your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have any specific health concerns before scheduling any facial treatment.

During the summertime, it's best to skip chemical peel and more intense resurfacing treatments as these actually remove the top layer of skin, making it extra sensitive and susceptible to sunburn and UV damage.

If you have extremely sensitive or acne-prone skin, you may want to ask your dermatologist for specific recommendations, as some types of facials and peels can irritate your skin even further.

Your face is one of the most exposed parts of your body and, therefore, one of the first areas to start showing signs of aging or environmental stress so treat it with care (and a little pampering, if you so choose). Not ready to visit a professional just yet? You can give yourself a gentle at-home facial using one of the products featured on our site.