Glow up goals: Knowing your facials

Facials have always been a careful craft between healing skincare ingredients and other methods aimed to make a relaxing experience, including massages, aroma therapy, and more. 

For those who enjoy facials, it's much more than just applying a face mask; it's a complete sensory experience.

With the progress of technology, salons have added new tools to their range of treatments, such as face massagers and LED masks. Some might fear that these advancements could take away the personal touch, altering the essence of the experience, but that's not the case.

"We might not have the same gadgets and tools they use in salons. Salons are also faster when it comes to tasks like blackhead extractions. It's much more efficient, and there's a feel-good factor to it," says Tasmia Rahman, a student at North South University and a beauty enthusiast.

Tasmia believes that having a sound knowledge of your own skin and its condition plays a vital role in picking up the right facial and its ingredients. 

"My skin is allergic to raw milk, so whenever I get a facial that includes a face pack, I always make sure to ask them to leave out any milk-based ingredients," she added.

Now, salons are more capable of making their services much more personalised, even at times allowing consultations to help their clients choose which facial to go for. 

Regardless, the newly popular skincare ingredients and gadgets can get confusing for individuals. So, we asked industry professionals to help you choose the best facials for your skin concerns.

Oxygen facial

This facial promises to deliver oxygen directly to the skin, revitalising it, giving it a more youthful appearance, and minimising the visibility of fine lines.

"The issue with dry skin is that it often looks very dull. The skin requires a facial that can boost collagen and restore its vibrancy, which is why I recommend the oxygen facial," remarked Auhona Quazi, founder of 'Celene Spa & Salon.'

According to 'Celene Spa & Salon,' the facial targets skin hydration, minimising pores, exfoliating dead skin, reducing pigmentation, and brightening the skin. As with any facial, the procedure can vary from one salon to another. Typically, the process begins with cleansing and exfoliating the skin to ensure a clean foundation for the treatment.

A wand-like device is then used to deliver a high-pressured stream of oxygen to the skin. Since nothing is actually injected into the body, the discomfort is minimal and the procedure is painless. Additionally, serums tailored to your specific skin concerns may be applied to enhance the overall results and help you achieve your best look.

The facial is available at 'Celene Spa & Salon' for Tk3,500.

Hydrafacial

This facial has gained popularity because of how efficient it is at extracting dirt from the pores. 

"Hydrafacial provides a gentle yet effective exfoliation, deep cleansing, and antioxidant treatment that helps refresh the skin," says Mayesha Asmita, owner of Glam by Asmita.

She continues, "It is able to penetrate deep into the skin, addressing concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.

What makes this treatment stand out is its suitability for all skin types, making it an accessible choice for those who struggle to find treatments and ingredients that work for their skin. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with clogged pores, a common issue for those with oily skin.

"For oily skin, I recommend facials that focus on deep cleansing and pore treatment. Hydrafacial, for example, is designed to thoroughly cleanse and purify the skin, leaving it refreshed and revitalised," said Asmita.

The Hydrafacial is a multi-step process that combines both tools and manual techniques. After cleansing and exfoliating, a wand-like device is used to extract impurities from the skin, functioning much like a vacuum. Finally, serums are applied to moisturise and lock in hydration.

The hydrafacial is available at both 'Celene Spa & Salon' and 'Glam by Asmita'. 

Collagen facial

Collagen facials are the go-to choice for many with mature skin as they work to make the skin appear more youthful.

"Anti-aging facials such as collagen facials are great for when your skin's natural collagen starts to decrease, they can help with tightening your skin," said Nadia Onima Ishma, owner and makeup artist at Make-Onish. 

Ishma also recommends that anti-ageing procedures, such as the collagen mask, are best used from around age 25. 

According to Glam by Asmita, their collagen mask helps with the skin's elasticity, improves skin texture, and reduces the appearance of fine lines. 

The process will vary in different salons but it will include a mask that is rich with collagen. Before the mask is applied, the skin should be thoroughly cleansed and exfoliated to ensure a clean base for the mask. 

The collagen facial is available at Glam by Asmita for Tk1,400.

Precautions for facials

Before you head out for your next facial, there are a few key points to keep in mind.

When choosing a facial, it's best to avoid those containing bleach, as it can worsen the condition of your skin.

"Bleach actually damages your skin. After the initial effects fade and your skin is exposed to sunlight, it can become even duller than before," explained Ishma.

Bleach is commonly found in treatments like pearl facials, gold facials, and any whitening facials.

Additionally, both Asmita and Quazi recommend avoiding facials before the age of 18 to allow the skin to develop naturally. It's also important to space out facials with at least a one-month interval, allowing the skin time to adjust to the treatment's effects and to heal, especially after more invasive procedures.

It is also recommended to use sunscreen religiously, but especially after any treatment is done. Facials can make your skin more sensitive and without skin protection, it could reverse the effects of the facial.

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How to give yourself a facial at home

Step 1: Double cleanse the skin

The first step in a DIY facial is cleansing. Begin by removing makeup and dirt with a gentle makeup remover. Use a cotton pad soaked in micellar water to sweep upwards across the face until all impurities are gone. No rinsing needed. Next, massage a pea-sized amount of cleanser into your skin in circular motions for 30 seconds, then rinse with warm water.

Step 2: Steam the face

You don't need expensive equipment to steam your face at home; a simple bowl, boiling water, and a towel over your head will work perfectly. For a calming and therapeutic touch, add essential oils like tea tree to the water, which also offers antibacterial benefits.

Step 3: Gently exfoliate

With your pores now open, you can start exfoliating. This process removes the top layer of dead skin cells, allowing your skin to better absorb products. Gently massage your chosen exfoliator in circular motions, then rinse with lukewarm water.

Step 4: Apply a hydrating face mask

A key part of a home facial is applying a hydrating sheet mask. For oil control, try a clay mask to absorb excess oil and impurities. Alternatively, sheet masks are ideal for hydration, leaving your skin with a lasting glow.

Step 5: Moisturise and massage

After removing your mask, it's time to focus on hydration. Gently massage your preferred serums and creams into your skin, using upward motions to avoid pulling the skin. Moisturisers are essential for sealing in all the beneficial ingredients you've just applied, so be sure not to skip this step.