There's a case for seasonal facials.
"One of the most common misconceptions I see is that getting a facial is a luxury rather than a necessity," says Bianca Santana, Master Spa Therapist at Brickell in Miami. "Look at getting a facial like you'd look at going to get your regular dental cleaning with your dentist. Our skin is subjected to so many free radicals on a regular basis that it's imperative to make sure the health of your skin is a priority," says Santana.
Just as you get your teeth professionally cleaned and visit a dermatologist for check-ups, you should also regularly schedule time with an esthetician (for example, at The Spa) to help your skin adapt to the seasons, rebalance post-breakout, and minimize wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Equinox talked to Santana about skin-specific treatments, the habit you need to abandon, and how to time your facial.
Can anyone get a facial, even if they have sensitive skin?
"Most of the time, yes. There are some variables including sunburns, recent peels, or surgery that may require downtime where it's best to schedule a facial when the skin has undergone its healing process and is less sensitized. There is a facial for every skin type and what is great is that facials can be customized and tailored to each individual. There is no one size fits all when it comes to skin and the same goes with skincare and how we treat the skin."
What's a skincare habit people should adopt, and one they should abandon?
"A skincare habit everyone should adopt and I mention this to my clients on a regular basis is eat your water and cut the cheese. Incorporate fruits and veggies with high water content into your diet and watch your skin change.
The health of our skin also depends greatly on the health of our gut. I typically ask my clients what their diet and lifestyle is like to get to the source of common concerns like acne, dryness, and dehydration. Unfortunately cheese and dairy in general are a big problem for many when it comes to skin and gut health. That’s why I advise clients to see how they feel and how their skin reacts to less or no dairy consumption.
And when it comes to products, sometimes less is more."
How far ahead of a big event should people schedule a facial?
"This typically depends on the type of facial but I usually recommend 3-5 days prior to really see the optimal results the day of the event.
I generally recommend the HydraFacial prior to events due to the ability of the facial to cleanse , treat, rehydrate and infuse antioxidants, peptides and ceramides into the skin. With little to no downtime you have plumped refreshed glowing skin ready for photos.
We typically have a plan set for the client's skin when it comes to general maintenance. I like to recommend clients who are in for their first visit at The Spa book a Renew facial. Once the esthetician analyzes the skin they can determine what will suit your skin best at that moment and will advise you on what they would recommend in the future going forward.