If you are not sure which facial to choose, I recommend booking “I will choose at the salon”. Before the treatment, I can ask what concerns you most about your skin, what you would like to change, what you are happy with, and whether you have allergies, implants, chronic conditions or take medication. This article was prepared in collaboration with beautician Lauriin.
What do I look for in the skin?
Before a treatment, I assess the skin's overall condition. I look for impurities, papules and pustules, congestion beneath the surface, pigmentation, couperose and visible capillaries. I also consider lines, the eye area, sensitivity, tone and turgor. From this, I can explain the skin's general condition and which cosmetic treatments may be suitable. This is not a medical diagnosis.
Why might the treatment you chose not be the right one?
One common assumption is that mechanical cleansing is unnecessary because the skin appears fine at first glance. In my experience, a first appointment very often calls for mechanical cleansing because there can be impurities that the client cannot see with the naked eye.
For example, a client may book an enzyme exfoliation, but after assessing the skin I may find that mechanical cleansing is the more sensible first step because of congestion. We can then plan the enzyme exfoliation for the next visit. This is why many clients book “I will choose at the salon” and make the final decision based on the skin's actual condition.
When should you choose “I will choose at the salon”?
If you do not know exactly what you want or cannot choose between the services, select “I will choose at the salon”. I can change the service at the appointment according to what the skin actually needs. You do not have to assess your skin correctly or guess a treatment name before we meet.
What should you say about home skincare and medication?
Always mention recent use of acids, retinol and prescription medication before a treatment. If someone has been using retinol every day and asks for a strong acid treatment, I would rather decline because the skin reaction could be too intense. Prescription medicines, including acne medication, can make the skin dry and flaky, which affects the treatment choice.
I would also not choose mechanical cleansing first for surface-dry, flaky skin. That skin is more likely to need hydration, and an enzyme exfoliation may be more suitable to help reduce flaking and add radiance.
When should a facial be postponed?
I do not perform a cosmetic facial when there is active herpes, a skin condition in an active phase, severely irritated skin or very active acne. If the client has not seen a dermatologist about these concerns, I recommend getting medical advice first. Some skin conditions may require medical treatment, and a cosmetic facial can only provide supporting care rather than replace it.
If you have an important event coming up
If there are no contraindications or known allergies, I recommend the O2 lift treatment before an important event. It can be done the day before to support a fresher-looking result. If the skin has active concerns or you do not know how it will react, come in about a week earlier for a treatment and consultation instead.
How should you prepare for a first facial?
If possible, arrive without makeup so that more of the appointment can be used for skin assessment and treatment. Write down any questions beforehand so that we can discuss them during the appointment. I also recommend avoiding exercise and the sauna for the rest of the day after a facial.
Aftercare depends on the chosen service. For example, after an acid treatment I recommend using SPF 50 day cream for a week to protect the treated skin and reduce the risk of pigmentation changes. I always give the exact instructions at the salon based on the treatment performed.