Facial treatments are relatively new in America, though they have been around for a very long time. As far back as ancient Egypt, women used herbal, mud, and clay facial masks. For almost a century, facials have enjoyed popularity throughout Europe. The French are leaders in harvesting and processing mineral-and-nutrient-rich algae, mud, sea water from their coast, which is used to make therapeutic products for dozens of spas. The Germans have been innovators in the use of herbs for facial and body treatments, and a Bulgarian doctor claims to have found the secret of youth in procaine, which she uses internally and externally to turn back the clock for aging patients. Whether these treatments will keep us young forever is doubtful, but years of extensive research and experimentation have produced products that are far superior to most made in the united states.
Facials are so much a part of the European woman’s life that she would go without a new piece of clothing rather than skip her monthly facial. They have a good reason as to why they prefer a facial. Although a facial is not a “miracle treatment,” it does several things that miraculously improve the face. Facials deep-cleanse pores to rid the skin of blackheads whiteheads, and blemishes; they remove a layer of dead, dry cells that is deeper than that removed by cleansing; and they increased circulation, improve skin tone, nourish the skin, and help minimize fine lines. A good facialist can be your guide to treatments and products geared specifically to your skin problem.
Even though I am a trained esthetician, I get monthly treatments from someone else. An esthetician and personal friend, Larissa Harberk came up with the best explanation I’ve ever heard of why professional facials are necessary. She said, “Getting a facial is like getting your teeth cleaned; no matter how well you brush, plaque still forms and a professional cleaning is necessary.” For years I’ve been telling people that a professional facial does what you cannot do, and it’s true! Facialists also use products with stronger exfoliant, cleansing, and toning abilities than those available to the general public.
There are many types of facials, which may be divided into two main categories: at-home and professional. I’ll teach you how to perform the at-home facials first, then explain the various professional types.
