We’re going to tell you right up front—facials make you feel good! The quiet, the aromatherapy, the gentle yet firm touch of the aesthetician. You get to lie down under warm blankets with your eyes closed, nothing required of you, while someone else focuses all of their experience and attention on your stressed and tired skin. And then, an hour later, you walk back into your day, refreshed and full. I’ll take one! Now, please!
So, at least some of the benefits of regular facials are obvious. But for those of you who are considering your first facial, or who just want a little extra understanding of the benefits of returning for another, we’ve created a list of some of the gifts that regular facials bestow.
What is a facial?
If you’ve never had one, please, please, please, go see for yourself. But basically, a facial should consist of a skin consultation, deep cleanse, exfoliation, a steam treatment, possibly some kind of blackhead or pimple extraction (if you wish), mask or peel, massage, application of a rich moisturizer and sunscreen, and then a recommendation of products specifically for your skin type and needs.
What are the benefits of facials?
Exfoliation
Using mechanical (with a tool or gritty substance) or chemical (enzyme or acid) exfoliation, the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin are removed. The regular removal of this dead skin aids with product absorption, prevents clogged pores, and increases collagen production. That newer skin underneath gives you a dewy, fresh glow. However, as the American Academy of Dermatology suggests, if you’re going to exfoliate, “it is important to do so safely so that it does not damage your skin.” That’s why it’s important to go to a professional aesthetician.
Moisturize
Once you’ve been properly steamed and exfoliated, your skin is more receptive to the moisture it so needs. Moisturizer not only diminishes some of the signs of aging but also acts as a protective barrier for your cherished skin. We always think of it as giving your skin a much-needed glass of water (drink water, too!). And at the end of your facial, you’ll receive a rich moisturizer and an application of sunscreen to further protect you from the sun’s rays.
Relaxation
While you’re getting a facial, you are in the height of relaxation—something we don’t get a lot of these days. In an article for Byrdie, dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe is quoted as saying, “Achieving relaxation through meditation, yoga or any activity in which you’re mindful and focusing on your breath can actually stop emotional or psychological stress from manifesting as physical inflammation.” That physical inflammation can aggravate acne and hyperpigmentation. So take that deep breath, relax, and let the stress and tension go, if even for a moment.
Massage
Talk about relaxation! Massage encourages you to breathe while the entire focus of the aesthetician’s energy is on soothing your body. Not to mention, facial massage increases blood flow, drawing blood to the surface of your skin to help rejuvenate and revitalize. During your facial, a significant portion of the time is given over to this healing massage, easing your tension and improving blood flow.
Event Preparation
There might be some argument over the long-term efficacy of the standard facial, but there isn’t much about its immediate results. As Dr. Adam Friedman mentions in an article for Time, “If you’re talking about a standard facial, those are about improving the appearance of skin here and now.” That makes facials terrific in preparation for a major event! Do you have a wedding coming up? Are you accepting an award? Are you getting family photos or headshots taken? A facial will give your skin a dewy glow, minimize wrinkles, and clear up breakouts for your big day.
Demystifies Product Selection
Another benefit of getting regular facials is the advice you’ll receive from an expert aesthetician. They are right there, observing and working with your skin, and they are experienced. They can give guidance on the products that will improve your skin when added to your daily skincare routine. For instance, have you been exfoliating enough? Do you need a gentler cleanser because of dryness or hyperpigmentation? Should you be using a cream or a lotion for moisturizing? You have the attention of a trained aesthetician—take advantage of it!
It Makes You Feel Good!
Don’t underestimate the power of feeling good! When you walk out of your facial appointment, you’ll feel rested, rejuvenated, relaxed, and ready to face the world. That’s as good a reason as any of the above (if not better) to get a facial. Take the time to pamper yourself. Self-care is vital to mental and physical health—this is precisely that!
Are you ready?
Are you ready to feel good? Then go for it and schedule your next facial. Even though facials are proven to help you and your skin through exfoliation, moisturizing, relaxation, massage, event prep, and advice on products, most of all, they make you feel spectacular. And couldn’t we all use a little spectacular?
How can we help?
Pamper yourself and learn more about skincare with each appointment. Schedule one of your next facials in Lincoln Ne‘s own Advanced Skin + Body Aesthetics today, and let one of our aestheticians focus their knowledge and energy on you looking and feeling your best. And did you know that we offer a Relaxation Membership with one facial and two Reiki sessions per month? Sign up today!
For info on our Lincoln spa services, like facials, waxing, dermaplaning, and reiki, visit our website or book now online. And follow us on Facebook and Instagram for specials and promotions!
Find more on body and skin care with our blogs on all things facials and spa services in Lincoln. Take care of yourself with advice on How to Jumpstart Yourself Out of Winter Hibernation and The Difference Between Chemical & Mineral (Physical) Sunscreen. Or consider some of the less invasive body sculpting techniques in Body Contouring Without the Fuss.