A Guide to Preparing for Your First Facial:
Introduction:
Stepping into the world of skin and self-care is an exciting and essential journey for your whole body health. Your skin is your body’s largest organ; it simultaneously protects and regulates us, your skin is constantly on duty. One of the most essential appointments you can keep on the calendar to maintain your skin’s healthy appearance is a facial. Whether you commit to a treatment series preparing you for a special occasion or you simply dedicate time to prioritizing yourself, while rejuvenating your cells, and relaxing your mind, facials can provide vital insights into your skin’s unique needs . Understand that your skin therapist is dedicated to expanding your skin’s health and beauty through regular skin treatments.
In this blog, we'll take you through the steps to ensure you're ready for your first facial, from choosing the right provider, to what to expect during the appointment.
If you are preparing for your first facial, or are overdue for a professional facial, you may not know where to start. First take a long look in the mirror to determine how you would like to improve your complexion. This step is important because you get to define your expectations and then together you and your esthetician can create a plan to improve and repair your reflection to get the gorgeous glowing skin results you have envisioned.
Research Different Facial Types: This can be a bit overwhelming, but having a bit of awareness is key to finding your preferred Esthetician bestie. A great place to start looking for recommendations is by asking your friend group, a google search, or head to social media and look for local businesses offering skin services.
Above is a little Esthetician humor. The gown goes under your arms and around your chest.
Facials come in various types, each tailored to address specific skin concerns. Before booking your first facial, do some research to understand some available options. You may want to know a bit of the industry lingo to best communicate your needs when booking a skin treatment.
Here are some facial keywords your Esthetician will understand:
Deep Cleansing Facial: Ideal for this someone concerned with pore size, oily or acne-prone skin.
Hydrating Facial: Designed to boost moisture for dry or dehydrated skin. If your skin feels tight or looks thirsty this may be your treatment.
Anti-Aging Facial: Focuses on reducing signs of aging, like fine lines, loose skin and wrinkles. Let’s be real, a large portion of clients fall into this category. This is why a professional skin consultation is crucial for you to experience safe and speedy results.
Sensitive Skin Facial: For those with easily irritated skin, or get pink very easily. Even the most sensitive skin clients can get wonderful anti-aging results. You just have to know your Esthetician is trained on how to handle your skin with care.
Brightening Facial: Designed to reduce uneven skin tone and control future dark spots from returning.
As a client, you do not need to have all the answers, but coming in with a baseline of awareness is key, this way you can stay focused on your most important needs. It is always recommended you consult with a skincare professional or esthetician to determine which type of facial is best for your skin type and concerns before committing to any skin treatments. I offer a 30 minute skincare review and consultation to answer any questions and determine your plan before we meet.
Schedule an Appointment:
In my experience, THIS seems to be the hardest part. Once you've decided on the type of facial, book your appointment! Put it in your calendar and make the commitment to show up! Schedule it on a day when you can realistically fit it into your life. Arrive a bit early so you are not feeling rushed, you may also need to complete any necessary paperwork to ensure you start your facial on time.
Pre-Facial Skincare Routine:
Leading up to your facial appointment, maintain a simple and gentle skincare routine. Avoid using strong exfoliants, peels, dermaplaning, or other harsh DIY skin hacks in the days preceding the facial, as they can make your skin more sensitive. Keep it simple with a mild cleanser, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
Come As You Are: As a skin therapist, I want to see your skin! I need to see what you are experiencing so we can resolve it. Don’t cancel if you have a sad skin day, if you have a breakout or dry patch, bring it! I can’t address what I can’t see. My treatment room is a safe space with zero judgment. I am here to educate and care for your skin. Never apologize for your skin’s condition when you are with me.
Communicate Your Needs: When you arrive for your facial, be sure to communicate your skin concerns and expectations to your esthetician. This will help them tailor the treatment to your needs. If you have any allergies or skin sensitivities, please don't forget to mention them.
Prepare to Relax: During your facial, you will most likely be in a peaceful and calming environment. Many spas provide spa wraps you can change into one for added comfort. Soothing music and additional aromatherapy may be used to enhance your relaxation. To make the most of this experience wear comfortable clothing, silence your phone, and leave your worries at the door. Everything will be there for you once you step back out into the world.
Understand the Facial Process: Your Esthetician will guide you through the facial process, which typically includes:
Cleansing: Your Esthetician will clean your face to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities.
Exfoliation: This step involves the removal of dead skin cells for a fresher complexion.
Steam and Extractions (if needed): The use of steam makes it easier to extract any blackheads from your pores.
Mask Application: A mask will be applied based on your skin type and needs.
Massage: Enjoy a relaxing facial massage to relieve tension, soothe muscles and enhance blood flow for that youthful fresh skin glow.
Moisturization: The esthetician will finish with the application of serums and moisturizers.
Post-Facial Skincare:
After your facial, follow the esthetician's recommendations for post-treatment care. Your skin has been professionally cared for, so it's essential to give yourself a little TLC for 24-48 hours, use gentle products and wear sunscreen to protect your skin from environmental factors.
Conclusion:
I hope I demystified any uncertainties a facial may have given you. Your first facial can be a transformative and rejuvenating experience for your skin and overall well-being. By researching different facial types, finding a professional you trust, preparing for your appointment, and understanding the process, you'll be well-equipped to make the most of this pampering journey. So, relax, enjoy, and revel in the radiant, refreshed skin that awaits you after your first facial.
If you are ready to schedule: I offer A Really Good Facial designed for first time clients. Click the link below and reserve your relaxation today.
See you soon,
Evie Reyna