According to the International Spa Association, approximately 47 percent of men are spa-goers. Getting a professional facial does more than your normal grooming routine. An esthetician can assess your skin’s specific needs and tailor a personalized skincare regimen to help your skin look and feel it’s absolute best.
Think of this as another health-focused routine, but more enjoyable than a treadmill, or going to the dentist.
Acne appears when a pore in our skin clogs with dead skin cells. Normally the body would shed these cells. The skin produces sebum, an oil that keeps our skin from drying out. And with this sebum the skin cells can stick together and become trapped inside the pore.
Also, bacteria that lives on our skin, p. acnes, also gets inside the clogged pore and can multiply quickly. The pore can become inflamed (red and swollen) and if this goes deep in the skin, this become an acne cyst or nodule.
Do’s and Don’ts Before Your Facial
Don’t do anything out of the ordinary, or anything special prior to your facial. The reason behind this is so the esthetician can see the amount of oil or hydration levels the skin has. Also, don’t use any exfoliating products at least four days before your appointment, you want to ensure your skin isn’t overly sensitive when you go in for your facial.
If you normally shave, daily, do so before your facial because the treatment includes face, neck and shoulder massage and if there is facial hair this makes it more difficult to treat. If you have a beard you can leave it, however, the esthetician may ask if its ok to work in that area; cleaning the skin, massage, etc.
Expectations During the Facial
Be prepared to talk about your skincare routine and don’t be afraid to talk about any concerns you have. You may also want to write down or bring any products you are currently using, unless they’re fairly common brands. On your first visit you will need to fill out a form about your health, diet, medications and skin.
The facial takes about 60 minutes, unless additional treatments are discussed. A basic cleansing facial can be done in 30 minutes.
The esthetician will cleanse and analyze your skin and will explain each step as it happens. The next step is exfoliating to remove dead skin and release trapped ingrown hairs, a steamer may be used here. Hot towels are used to remove product and open up pores, as well as relax you.
Extractions will be performed to clear out clogged pores. Men tend to have larger pores and more oil from testosterone, which makes their skin more prone to acne. They also tend to have thicker skin. This can prevent breakouts and reduce enlarged pores. This will also improve shaving. Other treatments may include: microdermabrasion, enzymes or acids for exfoliating, brightening and other skin repair.
Brushes, an ultrasonic tool and essential oils may be used for additional benefits.
After extractions, a relaxing facial massage is performed on the face, neck and shoulders. This will also stimulate your skin and facial muscles.
Some facials may include additional treatments such as a calming, soothing, hydrating or deep cleaning mask, targeted for your skin type.
Final treatment may include; a toner, serum and/or moisturizer and a sunscreen, (if during the day).
Facial Relaxation Tips
A good facial gives you time to clear your mind, to re-energize and de-stress both physically and emotionally.
Be prepared to turn your cell phone off before you go in for your appointment. Brush your teeth and bring a breath mint to feel better.
Before leaving the esthetician may recommend a customized skincare homecare regimen for you based on your needs and goals.
Ideally you might want to get a facial monthly, however this isn’t always the case. For men, if they have normal skin, at least quarterly is recommended. However, if you’re trying to clear up acne or have other skin issues, you may need to come in more regularly.