General Information

What are facials?

Professional facials involve a series of topical treatments applied to the surface of the skin to reduce or eliminate conditions that cause the skin to appear dull, uneven, and excessively dry or oily. When sued regularly, they are an effective means of reversing many of the signs of environmental damage, including exposure to sun, wind, pollution and other contaminants that can prematurely age the skin, making it appear lackluster and worn.

How do facials work?

During professional facials, your clinician will identify your skin type, as well as the conditions that need to be addressed and corrected. Once those factors have been identified, the clinician will use a series of topical products to cleanse skin and slough away old cells. The stimulation afforded by professional facials also helps the body produce more collagen, which can also help the skin appear more youthful and resilient.

What areas of the body do facials treat?

While facials are used primarily to treat conditions of the face and neck areas, there are many similar procedures which your clinician can offer to provide treatments for the hands, shoulders, and upper chest, to help remove impurities and expose fresh skin in those areas, as well.

What are the advantages of facials over other similar treatments?

Facials are far less costly than many other treatments sued to refresh and rejuvenate the skin, and while not as comprehensive as most of these treatments, when used on a regular basis as part of your skin care routine, they can offer significant benefits for your complexion. Facials do not involve downtime or discomfort, and they can be used in combination with costlier treatments to prolong those results.

Who is a candidate for facials?

Facials are ideal for any type of skin type, and any individual, from teenagers to older adults. Because a professional clinician relies on products designed to suit your specific skin type and condition, the routine can be personalized to suit a multitude of skin concerns and situations.

How is the procedure performed?

Most facials are performed in several steps, beginning with a deep cleansing to remove surface dirt, oils, makeup, and impurities that may be clogging pores. Once the skin is clean, your clinician will use a magnifier with a bright light to closely examine your skin and determine which treatments and products will be best suited to your needs. The next step is exfoliation. During this procedure, a gentle abrasive is used to loosen and whisk away dead, dry skin cells that may be clogging pores and causing skin to appear dull and tired. Following exfoliation, your clinician may use a process designed to extract blackheads and pores. Next, a gentle massage helps stimulate circulation within the skin, helping skin rid itself of deeper impurities, relaxing underlying muscles, and giving skin a healthy glow. A mask will be applied which provides a healthy dose of moisture and nutrients. Finally, a toner will be sued to help reduce pore size. Your clinician will give you advice on how to maintain results at home.

What will the results be like?

Following your procedure, you will notice smoother, softer, more evenly toned skin. In most cases, and when cared for properly at home, you can expect your results to last for several weeks. Most men and women opt to have a professional every month or so, or at least when seasons change, to ensure their results are long lasting and their skin is kept clean and free of impurities.

What are the risks?

Individuals undergoing treatment for acne should tell their clinician about any topical products they use, as well as any medications they are taking, as some acne medications (notably those using vitamin A) can cause irritation when combined with other products. Also be sure to tell your clinician about any allergies you may have.

Is Procedure covered by insurance companies?

Facials are a cosmetic procedure, and most major insurance companies do not provide coverage.

Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.

By OnlineSurgery.com Staff
Updated: February 24, 2010