17 Sep What do I need to know about facials?

Facials have many benefits that make them a popular choice for the modern day woman. By activating the nervous system facials press on pressure points which can reduce anxiety and boost your mood.

Facials are a deep cleaning treatment that cleans the pores and exfoliates the skin so that any dead cells are removes and new ones can grow.

As a skin rejuvenating process, facials encourage the skin to regain its lustre and improve the overall texture.

A benefit of a facial is that if they become a part of your regular skin care routine, then they can help the production of collagen. Collagen is what causes the elasticity in young skin. From the age of 20, the production of collagen is reduced. In this way, facials can help you to remain youthful even when you do not feel it. Collagen is also responsible for tightening the skin so that you can have a visibly reduced skin age.

Circulation is also boosted through regular facials. The skin absorbs the nutrients and oxygen while reducing the toxic waste that accumulates every day. Such detoxication has an added effect of treating acne and acne marks as they reduce the appearance of scars upon the skin.

If you are unlucky enough to be prone to whiteheads and blackheads then the unclogging of your skin can get rid of them for you. This benefit is due to the pores being opened up and the dead skin being removed.

Possibly the best benefit of all is that facials can eliminate the under eye bags and dark circles.

On occasion there have been reports that allergies to the products used can cause a burning rash. Your salon should be happy for you to patch test the oils that they will be using or have an alternative product that is suitable for sensitive skin. It is not okay for a professional to tell you that you are just oversensitive to the product and they must let you feel as though you can stop them at any time. There is no point during a facial that you should feel uncomfortable.

Aftercare

For the first 6 hours avoid wearing any makeup.

Avoid sunbathing for the first 12 hours following a facial. Avoid sunbeds and heat for 48 hours.

Do not apply perfumed products for at least 48 hours.

As you skin has been exfoliated, avoid further exfoliation for at least 72 hours.

For ongoing maintenance always cleanse, tone and moisturise your face. Ensure that you remove all traces of make up at night and eat a healthy balanced diet that includes five portions of fruit and veg as well as 6-8 glasses of water per day.

If you can use SPF products on your face, not smoke or drink alcohol then the effects will last quite some time after treatment.