Getting a facial sounds fancy, but what actually happens once you’re lying there with your head wrapped in a towel? If you’ve never had one before, it can feel a little mysterious. Do they just rub some lotion on your face? Is it painful? And most importantly—does it really make a difference?
The truth is, facials do a lot more than just make your skin feel nice for a day. They help with acne, dryness, redness, and even signs of aging. A good facial can clear out clogged pores, hydrate dry patches, and make your skin look smoother and fresher. But before you book one, it helps to know what you’re signing up for.
Let’s walk through exactly what happens during a professional facial so you know what to expect when you step into the treatment room.
Step 1: The Consultation – Figuring Out What Your Skin Needs
Before anything touches your face, your esthetician (the skincare expert doing the facial) will ask some questions about your skin. They’ll want to know if you have any allergies, what your daily skincare routine looks like, and what problems you’re hoping to fix.
Some estheticians might even use a special magnifying lamp to get a closer look at your skin. This helps them decide what type of treatment will work best for you. If your skin is oily, they might focus on deep cleansing. If it’s dry, they’ll use extra hydration. This step is important because no two faces are the same, and the right products and techniques make all the difference.
If you’re considering different facials but aren’t sure what type is best for you, a professional consultation can help guide you in the right direction.
Step 2: Cleansing – Washing Away Dirt and Oil
Once the consultation is done, the actual treatment begins. The first step is cleansing. Your esthetician will use a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin. This step ensures that your face is fresh and ready for the rest of the treatment.
They’ll usually massage the cleanser into your skin with their hands, using slow, circular motions. It feels super relaxing, like a mini massage just for your face. Once the cleanser is wiped away with warm water or a soft cloth, your skin is prepped for the next step.
Step 3: Exfoliation – Buffing Away Dead Skin Cells
Next up is exfoliation. This step removes dead skin cells that can make your face look dull or clog your pores. The esthetician might use a scrub with tiny beads, an enzyme mask, or even a gentle chemical exfoliant, depending on your skin type.
Exfoliation helps smooth out rough patches and allows serums and moisturizers to absorb better. If your skin is sensitive, they’ll likely use a mild exfoliant so it doesn’t feel too harsh.
Step 4: Steam – Opening Up Your Pores
At this point, a warm steam machine will blow gentle heat onto your face. This step helps open up your pores, making it easier to remove any gunk trapped inside.
Steam is especially helpful if you have blackheads or clogged pores because it softens the skin and makes extraction (the next step) less uncomfortable. If you don’t like the heat, let your esthetician know—they can adjust the temperature or skip this part if needed.
Step 5: Extractions – Clearing Out Pores (Optional)
Not everyone needs extractions, but if you have blackheads or whiteheads, your esthetician might do this step. They’ll use a special tool or their hands (with gloves) to gently remove clogged pores.
This part can feel a little uncomfortable, especially if you have sensitive skin. But don’t worry—if done correctly, it shouldn’t be painful. If anything feels too intense, just let them know!
Step 6: A Soothing Mask – Giving Your Skin What It Needs
After all that deep cleansing, it’s time for the most relaxing part—a face mask. The type of mask used will depend on your skin’s needs.
- If your skin is oily, they might use a clay mask to absorb excess oil.
- If it’s dry, they’ll apply a hydrating mask packed with moisture.
- If you have redness, a calming mask with soothing ingredients will help.
Masks usually stay on for about 10–15 minutes, giving you a chance to just lie back and relax. Some spas even include a hand or scalp massage while you wait!
Step 7: Serums, Moisturizer, and Sunscreen – Locking in the Good Stuff
Once the mask is removed, your esthetician will apply a few finishing products to keep your skin glowing. This usually includes:
- Serums – These are concentrated treatments packed with vitamins and antioxidants to target specific skin concerns.
- Moisturizer – Helps lock in hydration and keeps your skin feeling soft.
- Sunscreen – If your facial is during the day, sunscreen is a must! Your skin is extra sensitive after a facial, so it needs protection from the sun.
At this point, your skin should feel fresh, hydrated, and super smooth.
How Often Should You Get a Facial?
Most people see great results from getting a facial once a month. That’s because your skin cells naturally renew every 28 days, so a monthly treatment helps maintain a clear and healthy complexion.
However, if you’re dealing with acne, dryness, or other skin issues, your esthetician might suggest coming in more often at first. The key is to be consistent—just like exercise, one session won’t fix everything overnight.
If you’re interested in trying out a professional facial, look for a reputable med spa that specializes in skincare treatments. A trained esthetician can customize the experience to fit your needs, making sure you get the best results for your skin type.
Final Thoughts: Is a Facial Worth It?
If you’ve never had a facial before, it’s normal to wonder if it’s worth the time and money. But if you struggle with acne, dryness, or uneven skin tone, facials can make a noticeable difference.
Beyond the skin benefits, facials are also an amazing way to relax. The gentle massages, warm steam, and soothing masks make the experience feel like a mini spa day. And when your skin looks good, you feel more confident—it’s a win-win.
So if you’re thinking about trying a facial, go for it! Your skin will thank you.
