We all know facials are great, but with so many on the market it can be difficult to decode which will benefit your skin most. Terms such as microneedling, enzyme peels and oxygen treatments sound amazing, but if you’ve ever wondered what they actually do, we’re here to help. We tapped a group of our most trusted experts—Kate Somerville, Leslie Perlman and Madison Declercq from Skin Worship, and Antonina Dutu from Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa—to weigh in on the best lasers, lotions and potions for your complexion’s needs.
Which Facial Is Right For You?
According to Kate Somerville, oxygen facials are great for hydrating skin and giving a dewy, youthful look to the complexion. First, vitamins and a hyaluronic serum are applied to to the skin (customized to each client's skin type, in the case of Kate's signature DermalQuench Oxygen Treatment). Next, oxygen is administered as the serum soaks into cells, which results in further hydration, healing and conditioning.
Antonina Dutu recommends glycolic and chemical peels, as well as diamond microdermabrasion, which resurface the skin and minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines, as well as visibly diminishing age and dark spots. Kate also advocates for microneedling, which is a newer resurfacing treatment that stimulates collagen by penetrating the skin with tiny needles at 150 hits per second.
For an anti-aging effect, Leslie Perlman prefers a combination of microcurrent and ultrasound technology to lift and smooth the skin, starting from the décolleté and moving upwards towards the face. She notes that your aesthetician should first exfoliate the skin so the facial that follows can maximize the moisture absorbed, making the skin appear more youthful and supple.
Madison Declercq recommends microdermabrasion (which preps the skin) followed by an enzyme treatment (which clarifies impurities and reduces dullness) to reveal brighter skin. For something a little more intense, she also suggests consulting your aesthetician about applying a mask with active ingredients such as paprika, cayenne or cinnamon, which create heat in the skin and result in a visible glow.
To de-puff a client, Madison uses a microcurrent treatment to lift and stimulate the skin (which thus increases circulation) for more supple results instantly. You can work the entire face as such, or concentrate on small problem areas only, like bags under the eyes. Antonina also uses oxygen products to decongest the skin and improve circulation, which is especially effective for frequent travelers, smokers or those who suffer from allergies.
To treat acne, Kate finds light therapy most effective. Blue and red LED lights eradicate the bacteria that cause inflammation during breakouts, reduce pore size, stabilize oil production and promote healthy cell growth. For a tough acne client, she recommends LED facials twice a week for six weeks to rid the skin of problem spots, and once a month thereafter for maintenance.
