The Basic Steps of a Facial
- A facial begins with a thorough cleansing with cotton pads or sponges and a product chosen for your skin type (normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive, mature.)
- Skin Analysis. The therapist covers your eyes and looks at your skin through a brightly lit magnifying lamp that reveal various skin conditions.
- Exfoliation using a mechanical or chemical exfoliant. Mechanical exfoliation has a gritty texture and usually happens while a steam vapor is directed at your face. Some facials may use steam towels instead.
- Extraction of blackheads or whiteheads if you want it and need it. (It can cause broken capillaries and discoloration if done on sensitive skin, or done improperly.) People have different pain tolerance for extractions. They can be uncomfortable, especially on thin or ruddy skin.
- Facial massage using classic strokes like effleurage to both relax you and stimulate your skin and facial muscles.
- An Arora facial mask targeted to your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive, mature.)
- Application of toners and protective creams.
- Advice on home skin care.
How Often Should I Get A Facial?
It varies from person to person. Ideally, get a facial every four weeks because that's how long it takes the skin to regenerate. Try to have a facial at least six times a year, as the season changes. You may need it more frequently if you are trying to clear up a case of acne, especially at the beginning.
Variations on the Classic European Facial
We perform variations on the classic European facial which include the "mini-facial" (cleansing without extractions) and specialty facials. Add vitamin C, and you have an "age defense" facial. It's an "oxygen facial" when a mist of pure oxygen is part of the treatment, and a "collagen facial" when special collagen sheets are placed on the skin. An acne facial will pay special attention to extractions. Let us know if you have any specific requirements.