Facials: Worth the Investment?

Think of your face as a windshield for your life. As you go throughout your day, you are exposed to environmental pollutants, oils, dirt from your skin and hands, and free radicals in the air. Free radicals are unstable molecules or chemicals that cause damage to our skin and DNA. In numerous studies on aging, free radicals have been identified as contributing to our body’s aging over time. They are also considered a contributing factor to cancers. Because of this, daily face and skin care are essential, as well as using antioxidants, which help fight these free radicals and the signs of aging!
In addition to the importance of daily skin care, facials are another way to achieve healthier skin. Why have a professional facial? People often think of a facial as a way of pampering themselves, and it is, but it’s also a way you can achieve your skincare goals! Facials can help you address areas you want to improve your skin. In addition, professionals have better tools that can reach more profound than your standard “at home” tools and medical grade products that treat deep layers of skin, and not just the surface, as over-the-counter products often do.
The first step is usually a consultation. Consultations can happen the same day as your facial or in advance. Consult with a professional such as an esthetician, dermatologist, or other trained specialist. Treatment would then be provided based on the plan you develop with your specialist to address those areas you identify as a priority. Your specialist can also help you set up a daily skincare plan to complement your more intensive work, so you see results quickly, usually within 30 days.
There are several facials, and some can even be done together. Here are a few of the different types.
Deep Clean: this extracts deep dirt and debris and provides a more intensive exfoliation than you can achieve at home
Facial Massage: this type of facial is targeted toward relaxation and sculpting. It is often combined with a deep clean facial.
Chemical peel: there are several levels of chemical peels, and their goal is to help resurface the skin to address dullness, uneven skin tone, and blemishes.
HydraFacial: This facial pushes serums or treatments deep into the skin’s layers. It is often associated with micro needling or other methods to help the serum penetrate deeply into the layers of your skin.
Laser Facials: target rejuvenation and address dullness and aging. They will often also help eliminate age spots or uneven skin tone.
Some specialists focus on a few types over others. Chemical peels and Laser Facials are typically provided in Dermatology offices or Medical Spas. Finding the right specialist, location, and treatment is vital to achieving the results you desire. Take the time to research, and don’t be afraid to say no to anything you are uncomfortable with. Your skin is the largest organ in your body. You want to take care of it and ensure you feel your best!

References:
What is a facial? InStyle. December 2022. Available @ What Is a Facial? Here’s Everything Facials Do For Your Skin (instyle.com).
How do free radicals damage the body? (2017). Medical News Today. Available @ Free radicals: How do they affect the body? (medicalnewstoday.com)
Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention. (2017). National Cancer Institute. Available @ Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention – NCI