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Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,847
Registered: ‎07-24-2025

@CritterKeeper wrote:

I'm thinking about getting a facial for the first time. I want to treat myself for my 50th birthday. I have never had a facial, as I usually don't spend money like this on myself.

 

What are your thoughts on facials? Worth it? Relaxing? 

 

Thanks,


Happy Birthday @CritterKeeper  I think this is a great treat for yourself and an opportunity to learn from a licensed esthetician, as well to have exposure to brands/products you might not have used. This is how I learned about facial techniques, process and the microcurrent device/process for sculpting and eventually I bought the device to do it at home

 

I typically have a professional facial a couple times a year, preferably quarterly. And I do weekly facial treatments at home. There are definitely benefits to seeing a professional but equally important to do upkeep at home.

 

Suggest that you review the facial options that your spa is offering so that you can decide what's best for your skin and your budget. If you are not sure, start with the Classic. The Hydrafacial is also one of my favorites and I've also received Sculpting Facials. 

 

There is also alot of information online about facial treatments, just do a google search.

 

Yes, most facilities will try to sell you the products and suggest upsell add-ons. Just be prepared to say no unless you want to splurge or you can say you will think about it. You can also ask for samples of products that you are interested in possibly purchasing in the future. 

 

Is it relaxing, oh yes! Make sure to drink alot of water afterwards. Usually I like to do it on an off day so that I can go home, take a bath or soak in the hot tub and relax the rest of the day/night

 

Here is the info for a Classic Facial

  • What it is: Cleansing, plus serums, masks, and treatments tailored to your skin or the results you're after
  • Benefits: Glowy, hydrated, clearer, brighter skin
  • Who it's for: All skin types, and usually there are options for pregnancy

When you think of a facial, this is likely what you're thinking of. These are typically relaxing and spa-like, but can offer a myriad of benefits (sometimes, they're even bespoke and customized to your skin's needs). Sometimes, they're called "hydrating facials" or "glow facials." Spas might have a few different options depending on your skin type as well.

 

Your esthetician will cleanse your skin (sometimes twice), then apply a handful of masks, serums, treatments, and moisturizers to deeply clean and hydrate skin. Sometimes, these facials will include extractions, during which your asthetician will expertly clear your pores (remove blackheads the right way).

 

But not all facials will include extractions. If that's what you're looking for, make sure to check what the treatment features or even call ahead to ask if the esthetician will do them. And keep in mind: Extractions can cause some irritation and inflammation, so they're not recommended before big events. Talk to your provider beforehand to figure out what's right for you. You can always opt out of extractions if you don't want them!

 

These facials are usually great for making your skin look glowy or getting a deep clean, especially if you include extractions. And they're fantastic for helping you build your own skincare routine based, since you can ask your practioner questions and get product recommendations.

Valued Contributor
Posts: 527
Registered: ‎06-21-2010

Thank you for this info. It is quite helpful. :-)

Super Contributor
Posts: 253
Registered: ‎07-14-2010

@CritterKeeper 

Happy 50th!  I hit that number last year and I have loved every second of it!  

 

I also love facials.  I go about every 3 months.  I switch back and forth on which facial I get depending on what I think my skin needs...brightening, hydrating etc. I actually have one scheduled for tomorrow. 

 

While I can't really say the results last a long time, I do love the boost it gives my skin.  I find it to be very pampering and a great way to just be able to fully relax for the hour. 

 

I hope you find what you want and that you enjoy it immensely! 

Valued Contributor
Posts: 967
Registered: ‎01-03-2011

I have a facial every 4 weeks.  I have avoided sun my whole life so my skin really doesn't have many problems but I feel like it is just SO clean after a facial.  As others have said -- you definitely have to find the right esthetician.  The first one you choose might not be the best one for you.  I went to someone for many years and then changed.  The first one basically did the same exact facial every time.  The new one does something different depending on what my skin needs.  Especially dependent on season.  I definitely recommend trying it out!!

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,847
Registered: ‎07-24-2025

If you are fortunate to live near a Nordstrom that has a spa facility, this is a great option. I also like to schedule spa appointments when I travel and stay at resorts or cities like Las Vegas that have incredible spas.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 25,445
Registered: ‎03-16-2010

The Ordinary Niacinamide will brighten your dull complexion and also help with an uneven skin tone.    I wouldn't be without it.  $6 at Ulta  Oh it also helps with breakouts.  I used to buy it for my grandchildren.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum for Oily Skin #1

Honored Contributor
Posts: 25,445
Registered: ‎03-16-2010

@CritterKeeper 

 

I forgot to tell you Happy Birthday...

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Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,571
Registered: ‎07-18-2010

Facials are a wonderful treat and I get them regularly. Start with one that is relatively gentle (a good pore cleansing). I hope you have a good esthetician ...mine is very experienced and does a great job. She gives the best neck, shoulder and arm massage too. She also uses a microcurrent machine that is very effective at giving my face a nice lift. Her services are not inexpensive but I feel the experience and results are well worth it.

 

Happy 50th and enjoy!

 

 

 

 

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Honored Contributor
Posts: 36,390
Registered: ‎05-17-2010

@CritterKeeper   HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY!!!

 

A facial can be quite relaxing. I do my own about once a month to gently exfoliate, massage and do lymphatic  drainage. 

 

Enjoy a treat (belated) from me!!

Super Contributor
Posts: 261
Registered: ‎08-29-2023
I wouldn't get a facial..I dont want someone irritating my face..I would find another way to celebrate my 50th..