How to pick the right facial for you

Facials might seem like an indulgence but booking in for a skin MOT is probably one of the most important treatments you can invest in. Under the right care and in a skilled set of hands, your complexion can reach levels of radiance you never thought possible. We understand the choice can be overwhelming, hands up who knows the difference between a chemical peel and microdermabrasion?  It’s not easy, right?  Facialist Nicola Joss explains “it can be daunting.  I like to chat to my client about exactly what I will be doing so that they understand what they’ll be getting out of the treatment.  It benefits both the client and me.  I want them to look after their skin in between treatments to move forward, as well as return for another facial.”  So if you want your next facial to do more than just burn a hole in your pocket and leave you with a bit of a glow, here’s what you need to know…

Find facials near you 

• 1 Take professional advice before picking a facial

  “It’s important to get yourself in front of a professional who will be able to identify exactly what your skin’s needs are at that time, whether that’s using a Dermaroller or Diode laser” says Joss.  Looking at a facial treatment menu and picking without knowing what it entails might not be the best solution for your issues. “Personalisation is critical in achieving the best results. At Murad we believe that if no two faces are alike then why treat them that way?”  says Tracey Wilmot, Education Director at Murad Skincare.  Unless you have a specific concern like acne or scarring, a bespoke approach is more beneficial.  “Any facial unless it’s a major treatment like the dramatic Vampire facial should always leave you with glowly, plump, dewy skin when you leave.  It’s also the most requested result when it comes to how clients want their skin to look when they walk away from their treatment, partly because it’s difficult to achieve at home.”  says Joss.  “We don’t believe there is one common complaint as skin varies depending on age, gender and lifestyle” says Wilmot “but ageing, break outs and pigmentation are increasing concerns which can be addressed once skin is assessed”.
• 2 Forget fad facials and stick to a regime

  Don’t be tempted by fashionable facials or be bamboozled by the latest gadgets making headlines, “technology in beauty changes almost every month; new devices, new protocols and new technology. While these devices offer valuable results, firming, toning and brightening the skin are always more effective when combined with effective products and correct homecare” says Wilmot.  A good therapist should give you skincare homework to complete before your next appointment “the therapist is key and should arm you with 2-3 tips on how to maintain your facial with massage techniques and product recommendations bespoke to your skin type” says Joss.  During Murad’s new Method Facial they analyse the skin in detail “as the skin condition can vary at different points of the year.  It can change for many reasons such as medication, lack of sleep, stress and poor diet which is why at every visit it is vital to reassess the skin and treat it appropriately.  We can further customise depending on preference and current lifestyle or sensitivities.”
• 3 Express facials can still pack a punch

  Look for a facial that’s also available in a condensed version and offered as a 30 minute express treatment. It acts as a weekly maintenance that you can easily commit to for a skin boost “just like your weekly blow dry” says Joss and Murad’s Wilmot agrees “there is a definite trend for quick solutions, with express treatments and peels being requested more and more as people find there’s less time to spend pampering themselves but still want to see results in their skin”.  With that in mind, don’t leave your regular facial appointment more than six weeks apart, the time it takes for your skin’s cells to turnover and for muscle wastage to be in full swing after an intense facial massage.  Do look for a facial that uses professional strength products which can only be administered by a therapist.   The high grade ingredients found in pro products aren’t available over the counter for use at home.  “Professional treatments can be up to three times more potent than products we use at home.  At Murad we use a variety of active ingredients at professional high-potency levels that can speed up skin’s recovery and care much faster than at-home products.”