What to Expect During a Facial Treatment

There are many different types of facial treatments provided by state licensed professionals today; therefore, the procedures and protocol should be somewhat similar no matter where you go to receive a facial treatment. The first thing the client will be asked to do is to complete a client card or informational form. This card will inform the esthetician of your skin type, any allergies you many have and what the best treatment options are for your facial. If you are a returning client, your esthetician should briefly discuss the client card and any changes that may have occurred between visits. Questions determining age, pain threshold, sensitivity, allergies, medications and water consumption are all standard. Never be afraid to ask questions or point out changes in your skin upon return visits. The client card guarantees that the esthetician can provide the best possible facial service.

Aloe vera Facial

Most facial procedures will begin with two complete herbal cleanses to remove make up, surface oil and dirt. The esthetician will then cover the client’s eyes briefly and examine the face through a magnified light lamp in order to properly asses the skin’s condition. During the skin assessment, the esthetician may ask questions or describe specific areas of the face, neck and decollate (the area around the collarbone).

Once the assessment is complete, the facialist will continue with the appropriate exfoliate, in order to shed dead skin and increase the effectiveness of the extraction. At this point, a facial steamer may or may not be used on surrounding, exposed skin. Extractions, or purging of the pores, will follow a herbal scrub and steam. The esthetician should never apply too much pressure or cause pain at any time during extractions. Extractions are meant to clear the pores and may feel awkward or uncomfortable, but should not hurt. If at any time the service is uncomfortable or painful, tell the esthetician. During the extraction process, and sometimes the entire treatment, ensure that the esthetician is wearing protective gloves. This protects both you the client and the esthetician. Following extractions, a sterile solution should be swiped over the facial area to clear remaining debris and disinfect the skin.

At this point in the facial, a few things may change or differ depending on the treatment you are receiving. A decollate, neck and facial massage may occur which usually last between 10 and 20 minutes. During the massage, be sure to let the esthetician know if the pressure is too hard or a particular area is sensitive.  An herbal facial mask or peel may follow the extractions or massage, again, depending on the type of facial treatment. After the mask, peels and massages the esthetician will end the appointment with a variety of herbal facial products such as face masks ( or masks), toners, serums, boosters, moisturizers and sunscreen. Feel free to ask questions about any products applied during this time. The esthetician should then leave the room, allowing you to relax and redress.

Herbal Facial Cleansing

At the end of your appointment, the facialist will provide drinking water, as it is critical to stay hydrated after treatments, and will speak to you about an at-home regime or product that will ensure that you take the best possible care of your skin in between visits.

By Tiffany Oney

Tiffany Oney is a licensed esthetician, professional makeup artist and natural skincare authority. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies California State University, Long Beach and interning with Vivoderm Natural Skincare in Los Angeles, California.

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