Should You Get a Facial?
by Barbara Roberts
The Ultimate Spa Indulgence: Feels Good / Good FOR You
Now that we can see the light, hopefully, at the end of the pandemic tunnel, my mind turns to having someone ELSE in charge of my manicures, pedicures, and facials. I’ve saved money by doing them myself this past year, but the results have not been as satisfying. There are three reasons for this: No professional training, the difficulty of administering to self, and the inability to relax while doing so. For me, the stress of DIY is simply not worth it when working on feet and hands. It is impossible to give a satisfying massage to oneself. And in the case of facials, doing it yourself is not as safe, or fulfilling. As a matter of fact, here are some reasons for getting facial treatments. In addition to a high-quality cleanse, they also detoxify the skin. Regular facials can promote blood circulation and rejuvenate the skin, thus providing anti-aging benefits. As well, while undergoing treatment, you will probably feel your stress level decline, and you might even feel mentally refreshed.
Not everyone shares my enthusiasm. When it comes to the idea of getting a facial, people are usually in one camp or the other. You either swear by the benefits of having facials, or you hate them or think they are a waste of time and money. I was a once-in-a-blue-moon person, someone who added it to a massage on a spa outing, until my friend, and former business partner, decided to get her certification as an esthetician. When she was taking classes and working at the school’s spa/lab, I scheduled appointments a couple of times so she could earn hours towards her certification. I found that the down time was wonderful, and my skin truly did look and feel better.
Andrea graduated, pre-Covid, and started a new venture as an esthetician where she travels to the customer to provide facials and other procedures. The business was just getting off the ground when the pandemic interrupted. As things slowly start to rev back up, and you are looking for a pampering experience, my opinion is that this is an indulgence you might want to think about. I even tried something new, called a back facial. What a concept! But, getting to your own back for a thorough cleanse can be iffy, and this procedure, complete with a back massage, gets in there and rids you of all those impurities you may have left behind.
Safety First
In today’s world, for safety reasons, not everyone is comfortable with this arrangement, but her protocol is the same as if you were to visit a spa: Masks, face shields, and handwashing. Both the client and the esthetician wash their hands thoroughly, and they both wear masks when facing each other. Only the esthetician wears a face shield. These practices should put your mind at ease, and once you feel secure about the protections put in place, let the indulgence, in the comfort of your own home, begin. It’s a wonderful feeling when you don’t even have to drive yourself home.
Different Processes
So, what IS a facial? You hear people tell their stories about the “fabulous facial” they had, but they never really go into what that entails. Facials run the gamut from a good cleansing followed by deep moisturizing, to extractions (squeezing the impurities out of your pores), to steam treatments, to peels and masques, and more. Whatever the process, it is an authentic procedure for taking extra care of your facial skin on a regular basis. Facials cleanse, exfoliate, detoxify and leave your skin nourished. It can cost as much as a full-body massage, depending on the services you request. It is recommended that facials are scheduled at least once per month, since your skin’s cycle is about 3-4 weeks. Facials are especially beneficial during the transitions from hotter weather to cooler temperatures, and vice-versa. Your esthetician will be able to help you counter any effects weather might have on your skin.
When you enter the premises of the spa, or when your esthetician arrives at your place, plan to spend 60-90 minutes of pampering just for you. Those that sign up for monthly facials love the relaxation and the resulting glow that their facial procedures provide. That glow can last 2-3 days due to the intense hydration and moisturizing your esthetician gives you. Additionally, there is an increase in circulation which helps to provide nourishment right down to the cellular level. Some of us have “problem” skin, like adult acne or dry or oily skin, and need extra attention. As we age, some of us develop dark spots. A good facial, along with regular care, can help with these and other problems. Facials also relieve stress, right along with rejuvenating your skin.
If you have never had a facial before, and/or if there is a buildup of impurities in your skin, your skin might be red for a day or two or you might even break out afterwards. These are temporary after-effects. Don’t give up! You will see the benefits, and you will have even greater benefits after your next visit, especially if you follow the product and care instructions.
Hydrate and Eat “Good”
Honestly, I do believe in the benefits of facials, but there are some other things you can do to keep your skin beautiful. The most important ingredients for your face are to drink lots of water and to ensure you load up on nutrient-rich foods. Everything you eat and drink shows on your face. The more “good stuff” that goes INTO your body, the better you will look on the outside. Interestingly, your esthetician can tell if you’ve been drinking enough water…
Combine hydration and nourishment with a good facial and you will really enhance those good looks!
Do you go for facials on a regular basis?
If you live in SE Florida, contact me for Andrea’s info. The ultimate indulgence would be having the spa come to you!
