How to choose the right type of facial for your skin type

With literally hundreds of different types of facials on the market it can be hard to commit to any one of these expensive treatments

There are lots of detailed descriptions of all the different facial treatments on the market. Reading through them all, while helpful and explanatory, can serve to confuse you even more. Simply because I bet you will see at least three that you want to incorporate into your routine.

So far I have experienced LED facials, enzyme treatments, microdermabrasion, acid peels, acne treatment, firming and contouring facials using microcurrents, hydrating facials, aromatherapy facials and mini facials. I have enjoyed some more than others and found some more effective than others. I have come to the conclusion that they all have their purpose and a time and a place. It is up to you to choose the right treatment for precisely what you want to target or for what you want to get out of it.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

Do you want a relaxing facial or a results-driven facial?

If you want something relaxing, you should go for a hydrating facial or an aromatherapy facial. Often a salon will have a signature facial which tends to be a relaxing treatment. The more active the treatment the less relaxing it will be. It makes sense. If you go for something like an acid peel or microcurrent facial it will feel more clinical. You are having the service to treat a specific problem and get results so it's not really about creating a blissful experience.

What is your most prevalent issue with your skin?

The best approach is to choose a salon or clinic where you want to have your treatment and then tell them your problem areas. You need to decide what you want to treat the most. If anti-ageing is your main problem then they can shortlist the facials that are targeted at anti-ageing. If acne and congestion are your main concern you need to find out which facial is geared towards that.

You need to decide what is making your skin look old if anti ageing is your key issue.

Are you most concerned about lines or is it age spots? Is your skin losing its elasticity or do you feel like you have a dull complexion? Once you put these issues in order of importance to you, your therapist can recommend which facial is geared towards fixing those issues.

Finally, ask yourself what level of discomfort can you handle.

Is there anything that will completely freak you out? and if so make sure you tell your therapist. For instance, when I had a DMK Enzyme treatment it was a strange experience. I didn't mind the sensation but some people might find it claustrophobic. I believe that when you are paying big dough for a course of facials you should enjoy the experience somewhat.

So for those of you who really don't know about the science behind all of the different facials, the best thing you can do is go in knowing exactly what you want to get from it.