Facial Skin Care

There are various types of treatments for the face that you can see offered in salons and spas. From the rejuvenating facial, purifying facial, European, oxygen facial, balancing, alpha-beta peels, and deep cleansing to the more invasive treatments like laser dermabrasion and such. It may be confusing to decide which one you need since these treatments have different effects on the skin.To figure out what you need, consult a skin care expert on what treatment is to be done. Your dermatologist will be asking you several questions pertaining to the condition of your facial skin as well do some physical checkup. If an expert is not available, some salons ask you to fill out a questionnaire regarding your skin condition and what you want to do about it. The questionnaire will be their guide as to what procedure and treatment they will recommend.

Most of the facial treatments are based on just a few specific processes and principles, which will always lead to a better skin condition and appearance, when used properly. Those functions are:
Facials generally moisturize and hydrate the skin by using steam, masks, humectants and hydrating creams.
To cleanse, facials employ the extraction of blackheads, pimples and whiteheads using a facial clay mask.
For deeper cleansing, extractions are done using a needle and lens. The skin of the face is first relaxed and softened in preparation for extraction. Skin care technicians are learned in doing these procedures hygienically and accurately so there is no danger of complications.
Peeling methods use the help of enzymes, chemicals like glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid, scrubs and sometimes electric brushes.
Microdermabrasion is a machine is used for procedures that removes dead skin cells using mineral crystals and a vacuum type wand.
Facial masks can also firm the skin, which is usually used for aging skin.
Sometimes, vitamins and antioxidants are added on to the mask mixture to be used for the skin's nourishment.
Skin lighteners such as licorice or hydroquinone are also placed in the mixture to give the face a lighter look.
To complete the whole facial spa treatment, a facial massage may be incorporated into the procedure, with hand and shoulder massages as bonus.

Salon and spa facials can include everything except medical treatments, botox, heavy phenol peels, and collagen injections. Those are done only in medical offices, and with the supervision of a doctor.