3 Step Facial Treatments

The three-step facial treatment enjoys wide practice at salons, health spas and homes as both a daily regimen and periodic touch-up. Your facial skin is exposed to makeup, sun, wind and indoor climates all day, every day. Caring for your skin on a regular basis will stave off the effects of aging and keep you looking your best.

The prerequisite for any three-step treatment is makeup removal. Use a commercial remover that is formulated for your dry, oily or combination skin type. Then try one of two variations for daily and once-a-week skin care programs.

Cleanse

Clinique and Almay, major makers of hypoallergenic skin care products, both recommend three-step facial care daily. They offer prepared cleansers for a variety of skin types. Aging or dry skin requires a moisturizing cleanser. Oily skin prone to breakouts needs facial soap that is oil-free. Use only your fingers or a soft, clean cloth to cleanse your face. Warm water will open your pores to remove impurities.

Remember, your skin's needs change as you age or enter different environments. Periodically reevaluate your facial condition. A facial treatment specialist or retail adviser at the cosmetics counter can help you pinpoint the changing qualities of your skin.

Purify

Step 2 of your daily facial treatment should include application of a skin toner approved for your cosmetic type. Once you have removed debris and surface oil by cleansing, toner restores skin pH and closes pores. Witch hazel and rosewater are inexpensive facial toners, or you can make or purchase toner products enhanced with herbs and nutrients.

The world-famous Cal-a-Vie Health Spa in Vista, California, also promotes a three-step facial for occasional touch-ups that includes exfoliation and detoxification. You can perform this skin care at home using an exfoliating or purifying masque or scrub, such as one with oatmeal or kaolin clay ingredients. Do this as often as once per week.

Protect

Did you know that moisturizer does more than just make your skin feel soft? Moisturizing, the final touch on your three-step facial, protects your skin from the day's rigors, including sunshine, smoke and dust. Both Almay and Clinique offer different weights of moisturizing cream. You can also make homemade lotions using natural ingredients.

Daytime moisturizer creates a viscous layer between your skin and the outside air. If you work or play in a sunny or dusty environment, this facial treatment step is a must. Nighttime lotions help aging or damaged skin heal while you sleep.