Get pink-cheeked pretty with these high-performance specialized facials that treat skin conditions too.
Gone are the days when facials were just a cleansing-massaging-pampering experience. Today, they are full-blown science-backed skincare regimens that resolve those niggling problems. Often these treatments are accompanied by a skin analysis by a dermatologist, followed by an appointment with the in-house doc at a medispa or a skin clinic. And whatever your needs, the treatments are custom-made for you. Your neighborhood parlor, though, is not going to be able to carry them out. Get the low down on some skin savers and zero down on the one most suited for you.
Pampered Skin – After an Ultrasonic Facial Peel
Ultrasonic Facial
This facial removes the outer layer of the skin for complete renewal. The treatment uses a probe-like device emanating low-frequency sound waves (like in that of an ultrasound) to activate the skin’s metabolism, preparing it for deep penetration of topical treatments and skincare products.
Who needs it: This facial improves blood circulation, lightens blemishes, acne scars, hyper pigmentation, and also reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Good for all skin conditions, it is especially effective for those with sensitive skin, thin skin, acne, rosacea, burn marks, blackheads and whiteheads.
Derma Facial
Polishing Peel Facial
This technique uses refined crystals that move in high velocity on the surface of the skin to exfoliate dead skin cells, blemishes and large pores. Called microdermabrasion, it smoothens and revitalizes complexion. A popular treatment in this genre is diamond polishing: the skin is polished with a diamond tip. Youth Fill therapy that includes microdermabrasion, micro-circulatory massage with argan oil and seaweed mask is an anti-ageing polishing facial for women above 30.
Who needs it: Diamond polishing removes acne scars, uneven skin tone and dark circles. It is great for normal to oily skin but is not meant for dry skin. Try it at a leading medispa or top skin clinics.
AHA Facial
Done with creams formulated with alpha hydroxyl acids (AHAs) or fresh fruit pulps, this facial rejuvenates skin by shedding old, sun-damaged surface skin cells. Banana is used for dry skin and orange for oily skin. AHAs present in fruits or products loosen glue-like substances that hold the surface skin cells to each other, therefore removing dead skin cells.
Who needs it: AHA acids are known for their potent anti-ageing effects. It unclogs pores leading to clear skin and is recommended for those prone to mild or hyper pigmentation and premature wrinkling. Other advantages include reduced fine lines and blemishes.
Oxygen Facial
A thoroughly hydrating therapy, this facial uses high pressure oxygen jets and collagen masks in order to infuse the skin with pure oxygen and serums. Oxygen provides vital nutrients for collagen production at the cellular level and speeds up skin cell reproduction. There are many types available but the most effective is the one with hyperbaric oxygen done with a cocktail of anti-oxidant creams, vitamins A, b and C and serums.
Who needs it: Oxygen facial is an intensive anti-ageing treatment that plumps the fine lines of the under-eye and nasal area, plus neck folds. Skin texture improves in one session but a couple of sessions takes years off your face.
Aromatherapy Facial
Aromatherapy Facial
This facial uses essential aroma oils for a relaxing face massage, which clears skin congestion and calms stressed skin.
Who needs it: Since this facial eliminates toxins from the skin, it is suitable for all skin types. There is one for everyone: lavender and chamomile is used for sensitive skin, rosewood and sandalwood for mature skin, and grapefruit and neroli for oily skin.
Vitamin C Facial
A brightening treatment, this anti-oxidant facial uses extracts of pineapple. Kiwi and other Vitamin-C-rich fruits for facial therapy (the extracts are mixed into creams). Some skincare facilities also use concentrated serums with active Vitamin C that seep deep into the skin to brighten it. These derma treatments are advised for women above 25.
Who needs it: This facial reduces tanning, sun spots and patchy skin. It is not advisable for those with active acne.
Vitamin C Facial
DIY Facial Massage
As we age, skin rejuvenation starts to slow down. Facial massage helps the skin stay younger and slows down the aging process. The pressure accelerates blood flow to the capillaries, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. To reap the anti-ageing benefits, incorporate this into your daily routine, repeating each movement four times.
Glowing Skin is Priceless
Define your chin: Position fingertips on chin with thumb beneath jaw and edge toward each earlobe using small circular movements.
Firm your cheeks: Press palms underneath cheekbones and work in circular movements from ear to nose to help tone cheek muscles.
Reduce under-eye puffiness: Place two fingers on each side of nose and sweep them from inner to outer corners of eyes to clear fluid.
Relax your forehead: Press forefingers and middle fingers above eye brows and make small circular movements all the way up to the hairline.