How Acne Facials Can be Beneficial for People With Acne-Prone Skin

Acne is a skin condition that not only affects teenagers but also people who are well into their adulthood. Many treatments are available to clear acne up. One of the most popular treatments is acne facials. Most reputable spas offer acne facials. While visiting a dermatologist can treat acne through oral or topical medications, a spa can give an acne treatment that will go deep into the skin’s pores and provide a deep-tissue cleansing that will remove excess oils and dirt that can cause the skin to be congested.

An acne facial primarily has ingredients that are anti–bacterial such as Tea Tree Oil, and Lavender that helps to clear the pores and soothe inflamed skin. During the facial, the esthetician uses steam to open the skin’s pores before extraction can begin.

 

What should you expect when you go in for an acne facial?

If you haven’t had an acne facial before, the procedure is not much different than other facials that are offered at a spa. Before you go in, it’s a good idea to remove any face makeup that you may be wearing like foundation, concealer, powder, as well as bronzer and blush. In fact, estheticians prefer that you come into the spa with a bare face because before the facial begins, the esthetician will perform an analysis of the skin.

Before the extraction procedure begins, the esthetician will cleanse the skin and remove any dirt or makeup residue that is left behind on the skin.

Steam

After the skin has been cleansed, the esthetician will use a facial steam machine that lets out warm steam over the face for approximately 7 minutes. The steam allows the pores to be softened so that any gunk that is deep inside can be easily removed.

Exfoliation

A major component of an acne facial is exfoliation. During the facial, exfoliating dead skin cells and debris that is embedded deep in the pores can help alleviate more acne from developing, as well as making your skin feel smooth and polished.

An esthetician will choose the right exfoliation procedure based upon your skin type. Some exfoliating choices that are available are salicylic acid peels, microdermabrasion, and a chemical peel.

Extraction

During the extraction process, the esthetician will manually remove any blackheads and tiny little blocked pores that are on the skin.  A small tool called a comedore extractor is used. It is applied with gentle pressure; also, the esthetician will sometimes use their fingers as well, to remove any stubborn blackheads and milia.

 

Mask

After the cleansing, steaming, exfoliation, extraction, and facial massage process have been done, the esthetician will choose a mask that is right for your skin type. Often, during an acne facial, a sulfur mask is used to calm the skin. The sulfur in the mask helps to clear up acne by removing dead skin cells and contains antimicrobial properties.

Toner or Astringent

 After the mask is removed, and before you can go along your merry way, the esthetician will use either a toner or astringent. Both are very different from one another.

A toner is good for skin that is sensitive or dry because it contains small amounts to no alcohol. It gives the skin a refreshed feeling and look.

An astringent is best for oily skin. It helps to give the skin a matte appearance and keeps excess oil away.

 

Who is best for an acne facial?

People who experience mild acne breakouts will see the benefits of an acne facial more significantly. Not only does it clear up your skin, but it also can reduce inflammation and redness that can occur on your skin during an acne flareup. After your first acne facial treatment,  you should start to notice a difference in the appearance of your skin. It’s a good idea to talk with the esthetician about proper acne care that you can do in-between appointments.

Acne facials are not recommended for people who have moderate to severe acne. Also, people with sensitive skin should discuss with the esthetician about the right treatments that will work best for their skin before the acne facial begins.