Q. Is there really a benefit to a facial or is it about relaxation and pampering?

A. A real facial by an experienced skin specialist is about much more than relaxation. If you are self treating your skin at home you could be making mistakes because you are attempting to made judgments about something you don’t fully understand. Kin you think is oily may just be dehydrated and skin you think is sensitive could just be reacting to products that are too strong or harsh for you. A professional facial should include the following steps, A deep cleanse; a skin analysis; an exfoliation; a massage that should include the face, neck and décolleté; extractions; a treatment mask; topical products to leave on your skin; and a home skin care routine specifically designed for you and your skin. Cookie cutter facials with gimmick names and treatments are not considered treatment facials. A treatment facial is usually called a European style facial or Skin Treatment facial. My advice to you, go and have that facial, enjoy the pampering but realize that you are also taking care of a very important organ of your body, your skin.

Q. I am thinking of buying my mother a gift certificate for a facial or a massage for Mother’s Day. What are the benefits of having a facial? I think

A. I am asked about facials and what they entail often. The term, “facial”, is very broad and general. When I perform a facial I customize it to the specific skincare needs of the recipient. Some spas and salons have pre-packaged facials that will involve cookie-cutter type services without a great deal of regard for the unique skin needs of the individual. Ask to speak to the lead skin therapist or esthetician before you buy. That said, there are some basics that any quality facial will provide. The service should begin with a deep cleansing that should remove dirt and dead skin cells and unclog pores. Once this step is complete the skin can breathe and should have an improved glow or color. All high quality facials should leave the skin more balanced and should improve the skin’s appearance and texture. Regular facials at intervals of 4 to 6 weeks will hydrate dry skin, improve oily acne prone skin, brighten the complexion and leave the client with noticeably firmer, fresher, younger looking skin. The facial is a great gift because it should also provide your mother with relaxation and the results should make her feel rejuvenated, pampered, and pretty… benefits every mother deserves.