Whether you’re hoping to gain better-looking skin or simply need an hour of relaxation, a facial can be a calming skin treatment experience that promotes wellness. In general, a facial is a skin treatment intended to improve the look of your skin. Depending on the type of facial or what a clinic offers, your appointment may include other procedures like unclogging pores or even a massage.
Whether you’re interested in a basic facial or a specific type of facial aided by technology like AquaFirme, it helps to understand the options available. Facials are sometimes offered alongside treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and LED light therapy.
What Are Facials?
A facial is a skin treatment designed to improve the appearance and health of your skin. Facials typically involve cleansing, moisturizing, and exfoliating, and are offered by aestheticians and dermatologists. There are many types of facials, and some should be performed under the supervision of a physician. Facials may be offered at spas, med spas, or by dermatologists.
What Happens During a Basic Facial
A standard facial is more than a face wash! Here’s what you can typically expect during a session:
- Cleansing your face of make-up or other leftover debris
- Exfoliation to slough off dead skin cells
- A skin mask with ingredients customized for your skin’s needs
- Applying moisturizing products to hydrate the skin
- A massage for your face and neck
Facials may also include personalized product recommendations, facial steaming, and extraction. An extraction involves the removal of blackheads and whiteheads.
Other Important Things to Know
While skin treatments like facials can do a lot of good, they aren’t a substitute for seeing a dermatologist. It’s also a good idea to discuss your suitability with a doctor first, as some treatments (such as chemical peels) aren’t intended for people who are pregnant, take certain medications, or have other underlying conditions. An expert can recommend a facial that’s aligned with your unique skin type and needs.
You may experience “purging” after a facial, which is when the skin breaks out immediately following a treatment. If you’re new to facials, it’s best to avoid one right before a major event.
Types of Facials & Related Procedures
There are many different types of facials and skin treatments that are associated with them. Some may be more helpful to certain skin types. The following is a partial list of different types of facials and procedures typically offered alongside them.
Basic Facial
Your typical standard facial is designed as a relaxing treatment that combines relaxation with exfoliation and hydration. Sometimes, an “extraction” is involved, which involves unclogging the pores. Your face may look brighter and more refreshed after a facial, but the results are typically temporary. Be aware that some facial products may cause irritation, so discuss your skin type and needs with your provider beforehand.
HydrafacialTM
This is a patented treatment that includes cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration. It can be beneficial for people with dry skin or clogged pores. But while it’s suitable for most people, those with a rash, sunburn, acne, or rosacea may find the treatment too harsh. Check with a dermatologist first if you have a skin condition or are pregnant.
Chemical Peel
During a chemical peel, an exfoliating acid like glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid is applied to the skin. This treatment can remove dead skin cells, leading to brighter and smoother skin. You can even choose the strength of your chemical peel. Superficial peels only target the outer layer (epidermis) of the skin; meanwhile, deeper peels penetrate deeper. After-effects may include peeling skin.
Microneedling
Microneedling uses a tool with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries. This stimulates the skin to produce collagen, a protein that provides your skin and other connective tissues with structure and support. This treatment may be beneficial to those who want to treat fine lines, acne scars, or hyperpigmentation from acne.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion involves a device that uses tiny crystals to buff away the outermost layer of skin (epidermis). This treatment can effectively exfoliate the skin, but it can also cause irritation and scarring, so it’s generally not recommended for sensitive skin.
Other Procedures
Besides the procedures listed above, other skin treatment options include:
- Dermaplaning: This treatment shaves off dead skin cells and can lead to brighter-appearing skin. People with drier skin may want to consider “oilplaning.”
- Microcurrent, sculpting, or firming facial: This is a wider category that includes a variety of treatments, such as those that use radiofrequency and massage to contour and tighten the skin.
- Intense pulsed light (IPL): This treatment uses light to target skin that has been discolored from sun damage, breaking down damaged blood vessels that are then reabsorbed by the body.
- LED light therapy: This type of facial may be particularly beneficial to those with acne or mild psoriasis. LED light therapy involves using light to stimulate bodily processes; for example, red light can stimulate collagen production. Multiple treatments are typically needed to achieve better-looking skin.
What Is AquaFirm?
AquaFirme is a professional facial treatment system that combines cleansing, exfoliation, hydration, and nourishment and uses plant-based proprietary extracts. It can treat skin concerns such as dryness, fine lines, and unbalanced pigmentation.
Suitable for all skin types, a typical AquaFirme session takes 30 to 60 minutes and you can expect a painless and relaxing experience. You can also expect no downtime; people undergoing AquaFirme can return to their regular activities immediately after treatment.
Facials & Skin Treatments at Aesthetic + Mind MD
Founded by Dr. Tola T’Sarumi, Aesthetic + Mind MD is a clinic that values helping people experience their innate beauty, inside and out. Our services range from aesthetic offerings like IPL skin rejuvenation and laser removal to wellness treatments like esketamine therapy. Whether you’re looking for brighter skin or just want to treat yourself to a relaxation session, we want to help! Reserve your facial experience with us today by booking an appointment.
