Article Overview
- Having skin concerns or aspects of your complexion you wish to improve or manage is completely normal. Many skin concerns can be managed via a tailored daily skincare regime, however there are certain types of facials that can provide immediate visible benefits for concerns such as signs of ageing, dryness, enlarged pores and more.
- Among the multitude of facial options available, it may not be immediately apparent which type of facial is best for different skin concerns. Read on to learn how to select the right facial for you.
- Whether you’re seeking to find a hydrating facial or facial for blackheads, this information may help you make a choice on the types of facials for your individual skin concerns.
WHAT IS A FACIAL?
‘Facial’ is an umbrella term for a subcategory of non-invasive cosmetic procedures, often characterised by application of a mask or solution which is left to work on the skin before being cleansed away. There are many different types of facials, with each consisting of a series of steps that can include masks, steaming, extractions, exfoliation and others. Many facials are designed specifically to target particular skin concerns like dryness or clogged pores, while some are designed to promote skin wellbeing in a more general sense.
FACIALS FOR DRY SKIN
In terms of what facial is best for dry skin, we recommend choosing a procedure involving hydrating serums.
For example, HydraFacials are a type of facial for dry skin similar to a microdermabrasion procedure, with an increased focus on hydration. A water flow gently exfoliates the skin and cleans pores before the complexion is enriched with a hydrating serum.
FACIALS FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN
What facial is suited for acne-prone skin? Some procedures such as blackhead extraction facials focus on targeting the symptoms of acne-prone skin, whereas others focus on targeting the causes.
For example, LED facials can utilise blue light to target two of the key causes of acne-prone skin: overactive sebaceous glands and acne-causing bacteria. Red light can also target inflammation from active blemishes. For these reasons, we recommend LED facials as the best option for acne-prone skin.
FACIALS FOR PIGMENTATION AND ACNE SCARS
When it comes to selecting a facial for pigmentation, the same procedure will likely also be suitable for acne scars.
While there are many options, enzyme facials use enzymes to produce a reverse osmosis effect within your skin cells, optimising their function and working deep within the skin to promote overall renewal.
FACIALS FOR ENLARGED PORES
Enlarged pores often occur when pores become clogged due to excessively oily skin. For this reason, when asking what facial is most suited for oily skin, the answer is also the same one for pores.
A carbon facial can minimise visibly enlarged pores. This type of facial combines a Q-switch laser with a cream containing carbon. The laser blasts the carbon from the skin, cleaning your pores, reducing acne-causing bacteria and leaving the skin clear and smooth
FACIALS FOR AGEING SKIN
In the world of anti-ageing, stimulating collagen synthesis is a key goal to help skin appear more youthful. Oxygen facials can help manage the side effects of the intrinsic and extrinsic ageing process by improving facial blood circulation, promoting collagen synthesis and visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. During the procedure, a stream of pressurised oxygen is delivered to the face from a specialised wand.
AFTER FACIAL CARE
While some types of facials require more specific or gentle aftercare than others, it’s always important to adjust your skincare routine post-facial to maintain maximum benefits.
Avoiding potent ingredients such as chemical exfoliants or retinoids after your facial is also advised to minimise the chance of exacerbating more sensitive post-procedure skin. Here are our product recommendations to help you get the most out of your facial.
YOUR AFTER FACIAL SKINCARE ROUTINE WITH SKINCEUTICALS PRODUCTS
Swap out your regular facial serums for our Hydrating B5 Gel Hyaluronic Acid Serum to nourish your skin with gentle hydrating ingredients and antioxidant protection. This step is especially important if your type of facial is one that can leave the skin feeling sensitised.
If pigmentation or brightening was the main concern you were targeting with your facial, we recommend following up with a vitamin C serum to help maximise the benefits of your procedure.
Regardless of what type of facial you choose, a highly efficacious facial moisturiser will help support your post-procedure complexion. Our Emollience Rich Hydrating Moisturiser is formulated with nutrient-rich algae extracts and nourishing plant oils for intense hydration.
Sunscreen is essential every day, but it’s even more important after clinical procedures. We recommend our .
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.
Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, towelling and perspiring in accordance with directions.
If you’d like additional assistance with selecting aftercare skincare recommendations, we recommend speaking with a SkinCeuticals skincare professional. Find a skincare professional near you.