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Many people wouldn't hesitate to improve their skin or at least enjoy an hour of relaxation with soothing, fragrant treatments applied to their face. iStockphoto/ThinkstockThink of someone you know who is completely satisfied with their skin. It's not an easy task, right? Even those with seemingly flawless, radiant skin will likely point out minor imperfections like crow's feet or the occasional blemish. This is why the facial industry is thriving. Few would pass up the opportunity to enhance their skin or simply indulge in a relaxing session while pampering creams and lotions are gently massaged onto their face.
Facials are popular for various reasons, and while most facial treatments follow a similar routine, they do differ in specifics. The typical procedure includes cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, massage, a mask, and moisturizer (though not necessarily in that order). If you're seeking a quick skin boost and some relaxation, basic treatments are plentiful. But for those who need something more, there are specialized options available.
What can you expect when targeting a specific skin issue? Corrective facials are designed to address various skin concerns, from acne to signs of aging. While spa menus highlight many benefits, facials are not FDA-regulated. According to dermatologists and skin professionals, the long-term benefits of facials remain uncertain.
At the very least, you can expect temporary improvement from a corrective facial. If your facialist is skilled, you'll also gain valuable knowledge about your skin type and how to care for it. The key is to keep your expectations in check: no matter what the spa promises, a permanent fix is unlikely.
Here are five common benefits of corrective facials, based on the specific skin issues they aim to treat. A word of advice: If you're visiting the spa with a particular concern, make sure your facialist conducts a thorough consultation and skin analysis before proceeding.
5: Tackling Acne
Acne-prone skin requires a deep-pore cleansing, often with antibacterial products, to remove impurities and excess oil. A good acne facial will prioritize exfoliation (perhaps through microdermabrasion), and you'll likely endure a substantial extraction session. Acne facials may also include steaming and healing masks with salicylic or glycolic acid.
4: Controlling Oil Build-Up
Facials are excellent for oily skin, as clogged pores need a good cleaning, and exfoliation is essential.
iStockphoto/ThinkstockOily skin facials are very similar to acne treatments. The main goal is to clear congested pores, and exfoliation is crucial. Fruit acids, which help slough off dead skin cells, are often a key ingredient in an oily skin facial. The exfoliation process is frequently chemical, using glycolic or salicylic acid instead of physical exfoliants. Masks containing citric, lactic, malic, and tartaric acids are often used to balance oil production and improve skin texture.
3: Hydrating Dry Skin
Dry-skin facials typically involve generous applications of moisturizers and rich, oil-based cleansers, but gentle exfoliation is just as crucial. Exfoliating removes dead, flaky skin cells and prepares the skin for deep hydration. The facialist may apply a cleanser or moisturizer and then seal it with a rubberizing mask to help the product penetrate the skin.
Galvanic facials are particularly beneficial for dry skin, though they are also effective for oily, acne-prone, and aging skin. Using a device that emits an electrical current, the facialist massages the face, allowing the products to penetrate deeper into the skin than usual.
2: Balancing Skin Pigmentation
Several facial treatments target uneven pigmentation. Blotchiness and discoloration can affect any skin type, so services using natural products and gentle techniques often calm irritation and soothe redness. Facials that address more specific concerns, like rosacea, may include ingredients like green tea, cucumber, oatmeal, and olive oil, or utilize advanced treatments like intense pulsed light (IPL) or laser therapy to treat damaged capillaries.
Uneven skin tone, particularly when caused by rosacea, can be linked to stress, so the relaxation and massage elements of a facial can be extremely beneficial in improving overall skin condition.
1: Reducing the Appearance of Aging
You may not walk out of the spa looking 20 years younger, but your face will likely feel revitalized and might even look noticeably refreshed.
iStockphoto/ThinkstockAnti-aging facials are a booming industry, designed to diminish wrinkles, hydrate the skin, boost circulation, and generally revitalize the complexion. With so many variations available, here's a quick rundown of common features: microdermabrasion, invigorating massages, vitamin-packed serums, glycolic acid peels, laser treatments, collagen creams, and light therapy. While you may not leave the spa looking two decades younger, if you're satisfied with a temporary refreshed appearance (and that hour of peaceful relaxation), it’s probably a worthwhile investment.
