Facials

Generally speaking, a facial is a popular spa cosmetic treatment. Though there are numerous types of facials, the common thread is that all involve some form of steaming, exfoliation, extraction and purification. On average, facial sessions last either a half hour or an hour. Do facials work? If you enjoy them they do. Taking an hour out for yourself is one of life's luxuries and a professional facial is so relaxing your face is bound to look better afterward. A facial is a great way to treat your skin.

The benefits of a facial

• A facial can offer many benefits. The face is always subject to the elements such as the sun, maybe smoke or an improper at home regime. Facials offer you the opportunity to work with a professional skin care specialist who will analyze your skin, help you improve your complexion and show you how to take proper care of your skin.


• A facial can give you a deep cleansing, deeper than the cleansing you will get at home. A facial includes cleansing as well as exfoliation which can help to unclog your pores. Extracting open comedones will also help rid the skin of acne. Your skin care specialist will help soften the skin with steam, hot moist towels, and enzymes or other exfoliants.


• Massage helps the lymphatic glands to clear off swelling and puffiness However, the afterglow is short term as it is due to a temporary blood circulation boost. The effects of a firming facial, which uses electrical currents to stimulate the skin, last only a matter of hours - days at most. And if you have very greasy, acne-prone skin, try avoiding stimulating facials completely as they can aggravate sebaceous glands.

Steps for a weekly facial treatment:

• Cleanse with cream or foam, massaging the face with circular movements. Rinse with tepid water and a soft sponge. Blot the skin damp, not dry.


• Exfoliate using a gentle granular or latex-based "gommage" concentrating on problem zones. Rinse and pat dry.


• Massage with a nourishing oil or cream.


• Apply a mask directly over your moisturized skin, to encourage the cream to penetrate further. Soak cotton pads in eye make-up remover, or use cold camomile tea bags, and place over the eyelids. Relax for 10 minutes.


• Remove mask and apply toner.


• Moisturize with your regular day or night formula.