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.

Q. Is it true that tea is really good for you? I see spas that serve it as healing drink.

A. Tea is actually considered one of the “Super Foods”. It has many healthful properties. It can detoxify the body. It is also a great anti-oxidant so it can work to boost immune systems. Tea has been shown to help with weight loss and has anti-inflammatory properties. Herbal varieties of tea are not the same. Herbals are made from a variety of different plants. Tea other than herbal types comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. This plant is full of polyphenol antioxidants. According to DaySpa magazine tests have shown this plant to be better at ridding the body of damaging free radicals than red wine, vitamins C or E. DaySpa magazine further notes that regular tea consumption can help fight diseases ranging from diabetes to osteoporosis. As an esthetician I also use tea topically to help fight sun damage and to reduce dark puffy eyes. If you like tea, you are in luck because the quick answer to question. Is tea really good for you?” is YES. Drink up, warm or on ice.