By Kyle Gordon

What Is It?
A facial varies from spa to spa. Typically, it involves:

• Skin analysis under a magnifying lamp
• A cleanse tailored to your skin type
• Gentle exfoliation
• Direct steam to open pores
• Neck, face and décolletage massage
• Extraction (when necessary)
• Second cleanse to remove bacterial residue from extractions
• Mask to target specific skin concerns (anti-aging, hydrating, deep cleansing, etc.)
• Final cleanse, followed by eyecream and moisturizer for soft, supple, hydrated skin

Benefits
A trained professional can remove dead skin cells, blackheads and blemishes without scarring. You’ll leave with softer, moisturized skin and feel relaxed. It also increases blood circulation through the art of massage. Take advantage of this time to ask questions about what products are best suited to your skin type. “It’s great if you’re just starting a skincare routine because you don’t want to do anything that could be damaging,” says Lisa Maher, an aesthetician at the Spa at the Monastery and Suites in Newfoundland.

For Best Results
“Avoid strenuous activities for a day or so [after a facial] while your skin is still dilated, as it can contribute to a rosacea-like pattern. It’s also important to avoid intense sunlight,” says Dr. Jason Rivers, a dermatologist at Pacific Dermaesthetics in Vancouver and medical director of Riversol Skin Care Inc. “We don’t recommend putting makeup on freshly dilated pores. This can cause bacterial buildup, pimples and papules [a solid skin elevation that doesn’t contain pus],” says Maher.

Get the Facts
To get maximum benefits from your facial, get to know your aesthetician. Dr. Rivers encourages clients to ask about training and previous work experience, and for referrals. Maher agrees: “You can’t relax unless you’re comfortable with the person performing the service, so ask questions.” To better understand your needs, an aesthetician will ask about your skincare routine, how your face feels after you wash it and if there are any medical issues they should be aware of. “Eczema, sensitive skin, acne or rosacea are all skin conditions that can be affected by things applied to the face,” says Maher.

First published in Wish October 2008

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