About Face

Hi there! I'm excited my esthetician friend, Lisa (above), agreed to stop in and share some expert advice from her industry.  She answers for us, "Why is a facial so good for you?"  Here's what she had to say...

When someone says, "I just had a great facial," most people think of expensive creams and glamorous services that cost a bundle.  The hype of the beauty industry has most people believing that a facial is nothing more than a pampering indulgence for special occasions.  That could not be further for the truth.  The health benefits of a facial far outweigh the beauty benefits.  In tandem, however, they produce the healthy glow of beautiful skin we all want.

Facial massage is one of the most pleasurable and intimate aspects of topical facial treatments.  However, it is about more than just feeling good.  It can improve many skin conditions and has a calming effect on the nervous system that helps reduce stress and tension.

Facial massage can greatly benefit acne, rosasea and other inflamed skin conditions.  Acne is a wound to the skin, and increasing blood flow encourages the healing process.  Bringing oxygen to the skin's surface kills the anaerobic bacteria responsible for breakouts and provides significant improvement.  Similar to acne, rosacea and other sensitive skin conditions involve chronic inflammation, which also benefits greatly from the enhanced circulation associated with facial massage.

The exfoliation provided in a facial is a process in which the top layers of the skin are removed, so that the newer, younger cells may reach the surface.  As we age, this "sloughing off" process becomes slower and slower.  When our pores are clogged with dead skin cells, they are "stretched," resulting in the appearance of larger pores.  High ozone levels and pollution are culprits as well, sitting directly on the skin, not only clogging pores, but also being absorbed into the skin's cells.  These toxins are going directly through the skin into our bloodstreams.  Monthly facials and a weekly routine of exfoliation can keep the skin clean and smooth with an even skin tone.  Discolorations fade and often disappear.  The skin looks and acts more like younger skin.

Another major health benefit of regular facials is regulation of the immune system, detoxification, and reduction in fluid build-up.  These benefits are achieved in a facial that incorporates lymphatic drainage.  The lymphatic system plays a vital role in the body by regulating the immune system.  The lymph system, which is carried through a colorless fluid, runs alongside the blood vessel system.  When the lymphatic system becomes blocked, lymphatic fluid builds up and the entire system can become toxic.  Lymphatic drainage uses specific movements to clear the blockages, which helps remove metabolic wastes and toxins through the lymph nodes situated around the face and neck.  The waste that is filtered through the lymph nodes is then eliminated from the body.  The results improve the appearance of the skin by reducing puffiness, rejuvenating collagen fibers, and slowing the aging process.

Lisa Frank
Esthetician, Makeup & Eyelash Artist
Bella Vita Salon and Boutique, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

Thanks to Lisa for the good info...I definitely learned a lot!

Here are some helpful hints on how to get a good deal on a facial!:

• Subscribe to spa newsletters, which often contain coupons.
• "Like" your favorite local spas on Facebook.  You never know what they'll send you.
• Keep an eye on group discount sites like Groupon and Deal Chicken for hefty savings.
• Call your esthetician and ask for a deal.  Services are often negotiable.

Blessings!