All the Exquisite Benefits of Professional Facials

With the HydraFacial, CBD-infused facials, and now cryotherapy facials, it seems like the level of popularity — and innovation — of professional facials is at an all-time high. And while a constant stream of Instagram videos can make you want to book an appointment for the latest buzzy treatment ASAP (looking at you, gemstone facial), what is actually the best protocol for your skin?

In other words: In a perfect world, where we have unlimited time and funds to spend on facials, how frequently should we go for professional facials to maximize the health of our complexion without crossing over into irritated skin territory?

Aestheticians, like myself, all consistently agree that the magic number is — drumroll, please — once per month.

I always recommended clients have facials once a month, because nothing you do at home can replace professional attention. Also, your skin is doing different things depending on the season and depending on your lifestyle, having a monthly check-in with a professional ensures you are getting the best treatment.

Once per month is also the ideal time frame because our skin cell turnover cycle is 28 days long. So getting a professional facial more than once a month could be irritating to the skin. There are exceptions to that rule, though, so it’s always best to follow the protocol recommended by your dermatologist.

What are the Different Professional Facial Options?

Not all facials are created equally. Some people used to think facials were more hype than help for the skin, but now with the new HydraFacial technology, along with micro current, and derma planning, more and more people are becoming fans by seeing the results long coveted. (For those not familiar with the treatment, HydraFacial is a medical-grade hydra dermabrasion device that cleanses, exfoliates, and then infuses serum into the skin.)

While there is a wide range of facial treatments, generally, professional facials can be broken down into the following categories: chemical peels, cleansing, extractions, lymphatic drainage, LED facial, and microdermabrasion.

However, many facial treatments can also incorporate multiple types of treatments in one session. For example, Botanica’s Signature Facial, our most popular offering, incorporates a deep cleansing, dermaplaning or microdermabrasion, microcurrent, and a custom mask.

It’s also important to note that while experts agree the rule of thumb is one facial per month, some treatments, such as chemical peels, are only recommended once every three months. Fine-print information like this, in addition to the wide variation in skin types and concerns, makes it even more important to consult a professional to lay out the best plan for your complexion (and your wallet).

Do At-Home Face Masks or Tools Come Close to What the Pros Use?

The short answer is no, not really. But there’s still plenty you can (and should) do at home that can keep your skin looking its best. And while at-home tools, like the trusty jade roller or derma roller, may not offer the same benefits that a professional treatment does, they still offer plenty of benefits nonetheless. And this is good news because the reality is most of us don’t have enough time or money to treat ourselves to a facial every four weeks. (Unless you enroll in an affordable spa membership like this one.)

One benefit of at-home devices is that they keep the lymphatic system healthier in the skin by stimulating lymphatic drainage. I like the idea of people being able to take care of their skin more regularly at home, but I think you need to be careful to invest in a system that is high quality.

At-home facials sans fancy devices are great too. An at-home facial is a great way to exfoliate, brighten, and hydrate skin if you can’t get regular facials. Still, if you’ve got any sort of skin condition, such as acne or rosacea, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist rather than take matters into your own hands.

Botanica Facials

Our day spa is filled to the brim with different professional facials and skin care tools to create your best skin yet. Call us today at 727-441-1711 to discover which facial is right for you and book it now for when Florida opens back up after the stay at home order lifts!

Love,
Gen