Although most spas offer signature facials, estheticians are generally trained to offer three core steps as integral components of every facial treatment. Your facial is always likely to begin with a cleansing treatment and skin assessment followed by an exfoliation and a series of extractions. Check the services menu careful to choose the add-on services you need, and only use reputable products on your skin.
Cleansing & Skin Assessment
A licensed esthetician at a spa always begins your facial with a gentle cleansing using a mild solution, cotton balls or cotton pads. She removes any makeup with a makeup remover prior to the skin cleansing. Once she thoroughly cleans your skin, the esthetician covers your eyes and looks at your skin under a magnifying glass. Your skin type is then determined to be normal, combination, mature or oily. This assessment determines which products should be used for the remainder of your facial.
Exfoliation
A mechanical or chemical exfoliation removes dead skin cells on the surface of your face. Some spas use a steam machine to assist the mechanical exfoliation. A chemical exfoliant may be harsh on your skin but requires less time and manual effort for the technician.
Extraction
After cleansing and exfoliation, the esthetician looks at your skin under bright light and a magnifying glass to find any blackheads or whiteheads that should be removed. The technician squeezes the skin to manually dislodge these impurities from your face. Extractions can be somewhat unpleasant. You are always free to decline the extraction procedure.
