Learning more about Facials


Generally speaking, a facial is a popular spa cosmetic treatment. Though there are numerous types of facials, the common thread is that all involve some form of steaming, exfoliation, extraction and purification. On average, facial sessions last either a half hour or an hour.

 

Do facials work? If you enjoy them they do. Taking an hour out for yourself is one of life's luxuries and a professional facial is so relaxing your face is bound to look better afterward. A facial is a great way to treat your skin.

 

The Benefits of a Facial

 

A facial can offer many benefits. The face is always subject to the elements such as the sun, maybe smoke or an improper at home regime. Facials offer you the opportunity to work with a professional skin care specialist who will analyze your skin, help you improve your complexion and show you how to take proper care of your skin.

A facial can give you a deep cleansing, deeper than the cleansing you will get at home. A facial includes cleansing as well as exfoliation which can help to unclog your pores. Extracting open comedones will also help rid the skin of acne. Your skin care specialist will help soften the skin with steam, hot moist towels, and enzymes or other exfoliants.

Massage helps the lymphatic glands to clear off swelling and puffiness However, the afterglow is short term as it is due to a temporary blood circulation boost. The effects of a firming facial, which uses electrical currents to stimulate the skin, last only a matter of hours � days at most. And if you have very greasy, acne-prone skin, try avoiding stimulating facials completely as they can aggravate sebaceous glands.

Professional beauty therapists argue that treating yourself to a facial is extremely worthwhile as it is usually the beginning of a better relationship with your skin.


 

What Happens during a Facial?

 

A classic facial includes cleansing, exfoliation, massage, mask, toning and moisturizing. Usually, a treatment lasts about 60 to 90 minutes, including time to relax while the mask takes effect � say, 10 to15 minutes. Some treatments are entirely manual, others use electronic massage equipment to stimulate facial muscles. Purists hold that fingers are most sensitive and therefore efficient; modernist assert that machines have a deeper stimulating action. Before you select a particular type of facial the beauty therapists must conduct a detailed consultation concerning your health, diet and lifestyle.

 

 

Types of Facial

 

Basic Facial. These involve manual massage with a variety of skin-care products. Some may also include mini hand, shoulder or foot massages.

Aromatherapy Facials. These involve essential oils or products manufactured from them. Essential oils are said to have an affinity with the skin�s natural oils and can be used to supplement or regulate sebaceous output. Therapists often use pressure point massage to encourage their efficacy. Oils are also used to stimulate and relax.

Electronic Facials. Electrotherapy is said to enhance the action of skin-care products. The best-known electrotherapy method is called Cathiodermie and was established in the 1960s. It involves two types of low-voltage current being applied with tiny fork-like electrodes. Galvanic current ionizes both skin and gels, improving absorption. High-frequency faradic current massages the skin's surface, boosting circulation and producing anti-bacterial ozone.

Non-surgical face lift. Controversial � and hugely popular � these high-tech treatments use electronic massage techniques to boost both muscle and tissue tone. Electric micro currents compatible with the body's own stimulate the 30 muscles of the face. They also ease fine lines, and boost the circulation and lymph. However, to keep muscles "exercised", treatments, which are expensive, must be regular.

 

 

Steps for a weekly facial treatment
For a basic home facial you can do yourself, simply follow these simple steps:

  1. Cleanse with cream or foam, massaging the face with circular movements. Rinse with tepid water and a soft sponge. Blot the skin damp, not dry.

  2. Exfoliate using a gentle granular or latex-based "gommage", concentrating on problem zones. Rinse and pat dry.

  3. Massage with a nourishing oil or cream.

  4. Apply a mask directly over your moisturized skin, to encourage the cream to penetrate further. Soak cotton pads in eye make-up remover, or use cold camomile tea bags, and place over the eyelids. Relax for 10 minutes.

  5. Remove mask and apply toner.

  6. Moisturize with your regular day or night formula.

The following elements seem to be universal regarding a facial: use of Earth-friendly, healthy ingredients; emphasis on hydration and oxidation; and commitment to provide clients' with relaxed, glowing skin.


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