A facial is a cosmetic treatment of the face, usually involving a variety of skin treatments and is usually performed in beauty salons and spas, and sometimes even at home. A facial is a good way to soothe the nerves and rejuvenate the skin as the face goes through the cleansing, nourishing and toning regime. Their mechanisms for delivering this effect are believed to be derived by increasing blood circulation, tightening facial muscles, removing dead skin cells, toning up skin and also providing localized nourishment for the face. But, you also come through the facial with a feeling of having been cared for and that adds to the feeling of relaxation that one carries around for a couple of days at least.
|  | The routine
The normal routine of a facial involves cleansing, exfoliation, steaming, toning, face mask and moisturizer. Most facials also have massage of the face, neck, and upper back as an integral aspect. Here are a few details of each step of facial:
|  | Cleansing - Involves the use of mild cleansers that are gently worked into the skin with circular upward motions and are usually wiped off once the area from the forehead to the breastbone has been adequately cleansed.
- After a warm massage, the face can be rinsed clean and patted dry.
| Exfoliation- Involves the use of granular scrubs that will gently exfoliate the skin over the face and neck.
- It is preferable to use a grain-based scrub, such as that made from oatmeal or apricot, as they are gentler on the skin.
- Even scrubs with synthetic microgranules are a good choice if they are in a base which does not dry the skin.
- The scrub will need to be rubbed over those areas which are more oily, such as the T-zone of the face, for a longer time, especially in individuals with combination skin.
- Wipe the scrub off and rinse with lukewarm water.
| Steaming- It is an essential part of the facial as it opens up the pores of the skin and is vital for the absorption of toning substances that are used in the facial masks and packs.
- For dry skin, it is better to use herbs such as lavender, mint or calendula in the water used for steaming.
- For oily skin, rose, witch hazel, lavender or mint is a better choice.
- For sensitive skin will need chamomile, comfrey, and calendula that are more soothing and gentle on the skin.
- It should ideally be for duration between 10 and 15 min.
- It should be stopped for a few seconds if you experience any burning.
- The bowl should be at a distance of 1 foot away from the face.
- In cases where herbs are not available can involve the herbal oils or extracts that are ubiquitous at most health stores. However, care should be exercised while choosing these oils to ensure that they are free from additives or synthetic chemicals as they can cause sensitive skin to break out.
| Toning- It usually follows steaming and involves the toner that is most suitable for your skin type.
- It is facilitated as the pores are open following steaming and enhance absorption of toning substances.
| Face pack or mask application- After the process of steaming has been completed, Black Heads can be removed with a black-head remover. But, it is advisable that this procedure not be undertaken by a non-professional in view of the possibility of introducing infection or causing damage by the application of too much force.
- It is done on to the face after steaming and covers the entire face, with the exception of the eyes, nostrils and mouth.
- It can vary based on skin type and involves a variety of natural or synthetic ingredients.
- It is usually left in place for 15–20 min or until dry.
- It can be wiped off with a clean towel that has been soaked in lukewarm water.
|  | Moisturizing - It is done once the face mask has been removed and the skin has been patted dry.
- A suitable moisturizer is smoothed all over the face but avoiding the eyes and under-eye areas.
- An eye cream is used around the eyes and the under-eye areas.
- It is advisable that you rest for a few hours following a facial as it will help your skin rejuvenate and you will feel more relaxed.
|  | For whom is it right?- Facials are not advisable in young, teenage individuals as their skin is in a state of development and does not need the elaborate care of the facial. A deep-cleansing regime should suffice for preventing Acne and pimples.
- Facials should be indulged in only in moderation—the ideal frequency being once a month, or fortnightly in individuals treating Acne.
- Different facials are designed for various skin types and lifestyles and vary in the use of creams, lotions, packs and oils. It is recommended that you opt for the herbal facial wherever possible. Aroma facials treat both the body and the soul and can work wonders for individuals suffering with pigmentation problems and under-eye dark circles.
- Special facials, with gold, pearl or other precious metals can be indulged in for special occasions as they provide an instant glow.
- Brides-to-be or individuals in the 20–30 age range can indulge in special facials or have a facial once in 30 or 45 days.
- Oxy-facials are detoxifying facials for individuals who are frequently exposed to dust and pollution or work in closed environments where there is not much circulation of air.
- Galvanic facials involve the use of electric current and help by altering the skin conditions from oily or dry to normal.
- Vegetable peels are used in specialized facials for treating mild scars from Acne and work by peeling off the top layer of the skin.
- Older women fighting the onset of skin wrinkling will need to have facials more frequently.
- As is so many other treatments for relaxation, the ambience makes a big difference to the outcome of the procedure.
What you should know before the procedure? - Ask about the creams and oils that will be used in the facial and ascertain that they are manufactured by a reliable cosmetics group.
- Know the duration of the procedure so you can factor it into your schedule.
- Make an appointment beforehand so the beautician is ready for you and has reserved adequate time for the facial.
- If planning to bleach your face, it is better to discuss this and have it done before the facial.
- Other treatments or procedures involving the facial area, such as threading or waxing, are best reserved for another session.
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