Spa facials are popular and skin-type specific. They run the gamut from those that pamper to those that address skin conditions such as acne, mature skin, sun-damaged skin, dry, dehydrated or oily skin, and facials specifically designed for men. Express facials generally last 25 minutes. Basic facials typically require 50 minutes, though those that include extraction can run longer. Specialty facials last for 75 to 110 minutes. Because there are so many different types of facials, the steps differ. Most facials, however, share some common steps.
Cleansing
Every spa facial begins with makeup removal and the cleansing of the face, neck and décolleté. Skin type and condition can dictate the product that an esthetician chooses, as different skin product lines offer skin-specific formulations. People with sensitive skin, for instance, most benefit from products that don't contain fragrances or dyes. Cleansing formulations include milks, gels, washes, soufflés and creams.
Exfoliation
The epidermis, the uppermost layer of skin, contains a very thin outer covering of flattened, dead skin cells held together by a cellular "cement." This layer, called the stratum corneum, protects the body from outside aggressors. Unfortunately, because these cells are dead, they tend to look dull. During a spa facial, dead skin cells are peeled away to refresh skin's appearance and remove the outermost barrier so the following products can more easily penetrate to the living skin below.
Moist Heat
Some spas offer steam; others apply moist, heated towels to the face. The moist heat loosens the plugs that cause blackheads and encourages skin to sweat. Steam and/or heated towels may not be appropriate for all skin types. Estheticians may skip this step if your skin is sunburned or otherwise irritated.
Mask
Skin care product companies offer hundreds of different masks. Designed to treat specific skin types and conditions, the mask phase greatly benefits skin. Some masks draw out impurities; others infuse the skin with moisture. Balancing masks, oxygenating masks, rejuvenating masks and masks specifically intended for men, are just a few of the mask types available to spas. A special category of masks (and products in general) includes botanical formulations.
Massage
Not all spas include arm and hand massage in their facials. However, many include some sort of facial, neck, shoulder and head massage. Performed before the mask, a massage stimulates skin so that it will benefit more fully from the mask. Performed on the neck, shoulders and head during the mask phase, the massage further relaxes the client and may offer other health benefits. In an article in Skin, Inc. magazine, Lydia Sarfati reports that facial massage improves skin function, reduces stress and increases collagen and elastin production. Certain skin conditions, such as acne or herpes outbreaks, should not be massaged due to the risk of further irritation or spread.
Cream Application
The final step in most spa facials is the application of a skin-specific cream, gel or serum. Eye gels and lip treatments may also be applied at this time.
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