Have you ever wondered what a facial is or whether you should spend the time and money to get one? You’re not alone. Many people are unaware of the benefits of regular facials. In the following article, Jen Krupa discusses the answers to the most commonly asked questions about facials.
Jen is a licensed esthetician who practices at Natural Health Practices in Port Orange, FL. Jen has worked as a medical esthetician for a plastic surgeon and has experience with many different medical treatment modalities, however she is more interested in employing natural products and modalities as she firmly believes they are better for the skin.
What is a facial?
A professional facial is designed not only as a relaxing and pampering experience, but more importantly to help your skin look and feel it’s very best. Facials are performed by licensed estheticians who are professional skin specialists, trained to assess and enhance the skin through various treatments. A holistic facial service normally consists of:
- Skin analysis by the esthetician
- Makeup removal and deep skin cleansing
- Exfoliation by enzymatic, mechanical or other natural means
- Steaming
- Extractions
- Facial massage
- Treatment mask
- Serums, powder actives, other modalities used for fighting lines/wrinkles, tightening skin, and clearing blemishes
- Moisturizer and sunblock
The Esthetician customizes skin treatments on an individual basis for the face, neck and décolleté that can help treat and prevent everyday skin concerns. During your facial, your esthetician will recommend appropriate skin care for home use to help you continue the benefits of the facial and correct ongoing skin care issues.
In addition to achieving healthier, smoother-looking skin, facials also provide the following benefits:
- Boosts collagen production
- Removes dead skin cells
- Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Clears the pores
- Combats acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation and broken capillaries
- Diminishes scarring
- Moisturizes and hydrates
- Reduces stress and psychological distress
- Relaxing for the body and mind
- Improves blood circulation to the skin, leading to many visible benefits
- Firms and lifts sagging skin over time, with regular monthly facials
- Professional advice and recommendations to best care for your skin
- Getting regular facials once a month helps your home skin care products to be able to better penetrate the skin and thereby work more efficiently
I’m already happy with my skin, why would I get a facial?
You may not think you need a facial if your genetics have given you great skin already. But the truth is, you may still need one! Most skin care specialists will agree that prevention is one of the most crucial benefits of getting regular facials. Taking care of your skin through facials and a good home skin care regimen can help prevent future skin care concerns that often appear such as lines, wrinkles, acne, hyperpigmentation and much more. Daily cleansing and moisturizing are great, but nothing compares to the deep cleansing, exfoliation, moisturizing and special care your skin will receive when you get a facial. And let’s be honest: a lot of us are probably not spending as much time on our skin care routine as we should, so the only way we can achieve great skin is by being consistent in our routines! Despite what creative marketing advertises, most at-home facial products are not right for every skin type and condition. This can lead to minimal results or even adverse skin reactions like allergies or rashes. This is why customized facials are best left to a licensed esthetician who knows how to employ the correct ingredients to attain the specific results you need for your healthiest, most glowing complexion.
The other amazing perk of getting a facial is that it is very relaxing and can help reduce stress. Who doesn’t need a little stress relief in today’s world? Studies have shown that facial massage activates your parasympathetic nervous system, which reduces your anxiety levels and uplifts your mood. There are literally hundreds of pressure points on your face that are connected to various organs and systems in your body, and when those pressure points are massaged, your body responds to it in a positive way. A good facial massage is like an exercise for your face that will not only help your skin glow, but it can also help stimulate other organs to function properly.
How often do I need to get a facial?
To preserve and enhance the results you get from your facials, it is highly recommended that you get a facial every 28-35 days. This is the amount of time it takes for skin cells to move through a full life cycle of cell growth and make their way from the dermis (lower layer of skin) to the epidermis (outer layer of skin) and staying within the growth cycle will improve the quality of your facial results and home care regimen! People often look for quick solutions to health or skin problems that have taken years to develop. The reality is that there are no quick fixes when seeking natural, healthy solutions. So, be as consistent as possible with your skincare routine and remain patient with your body as it heals and transforms!
I’m in! How do I get started on my journey to beautiful skin?
If you’re ready to put your best face forward (literally) and treat yourself to a luxurious and beneficial service, call Natural Health Practices at 386-307-8207 and we can refer you to an incredible esthetician in the Port Orange area!