When you hear the words “facials” or “peels”, your mind may conjure up images of women in white towels surrounded by steam.
Facials and Peels are synonymous with the spa experience and pampering yourself. However, you may be wondering what facials and peels actually are. Read the following guide to learn what facials and peels are, and what they can do for your skin.
What is a Facial?
A facial is one of the most popular spa treatments, second only to massage. A facial is actually a group of skin care treatments, including steaming, exfoliation, and clearing pores. It can include different steps depending on where you are getting it done.
There are several steps involved in a facial:
- Cleansing– It is important to remove makeup and clean the skin before the facial. The esthetician will use cotton pads or a cleansing brush to cleanse your face.
- Review Skin– The esthetician will then examine your skin and determine the best products and methods for your skin type.
- Exfoliate– Your face will be exfoliated using either a chemical or physical exfoliant.
- Steam– A warm stream of steam is used to loosen up anything blocking your pores. This makes blemishes easier to remove.
- Extraction– Blemishes like blackheads and whiteheads are removed by the esthetician.
- Massage– This is the most relaxing part of the facial. Gentle massage strokes are used to relax muscles and increase blood circulation.
- Mask– Using information gathered during the review step, the esthetician will create a moisturizing mask that is just right for your skin.
What are the Benefits?
There are several benefits of getting a facial. For one thing, a facial clears your clogged pores and moisturizes dry skin. It also helps with blood circulation, removes dead skin cells, and can treat things like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles.
What is a Peel?
The word “peel” usually refers to chemical peels. A chemical peel is a treatment that is used to clear pores and remove damaged skin cells. A peel can be light, medium, or deep according to your skin’s needs.
- Pre-Treatment– The esthetician will apply a numbing cream to your face. This helps protect your skin during the treatment.
- Treatment– A cream with the correct combination of chemicals for your skin is applied.
- Cooling– After treatment, the esthetician will cool down your face with cooling pads and
The word “peel” could also be referring to a Jet peel. A Jet peel uses air and water to exfoliate the skin. Jet peels are recommended for those with sensitive skin.
What are the Benefits?
Peels are used to treat wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, acne, and clogged pores. Chemical peels as well as Jet peels are effective for treating these common skin issues.
Which is Better, a Facial or a Peel?
So, which is better to get, a facial or a peel? The main difference between a facial and a peel is how invasive each is. A facial is a surface-layer-only treatment. It clears, moisturizes, and exfoliates only the top layer of skin. Whereas a peel is a much deeper treatment that removes the damaged top layers of skin.
Whether you need a facial or peel will depend on your skin’s needs and what problems you would like corrected. If you have severe problems with fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, or other signs of aging, you may need a peel.
For more information about facials and peels, visit our blog, or contact Advanced Esthetics to schedule an appointment today.