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A facial is a treatment designed to improve the appearance of the skin.

A variety of facials are available, from a more relaxing spa-like experience to treatments.

Some facials can treat both sun damage and certain skin conditions, such as rosacea.

Who doesn"t want to feel fresh and younger?

This is one of the biggest promises to get a facial. "A facial is a specific treatment designed to improve the overall appearance of the skin," says Marisa Garshick, MD, a New York dermatologist and clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. York.The term "facial treatment" does not mean only one specific treatment. “There are many different interpretations of a facial – some focus more on massage, the application of topical creams and the overall sensory experience,” explains Dr. Garshick.

Others may focus more on improving or enhancing skin health by using proven ingredients, extracts, or other devices to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, and brighten skin.You can get facials at a spa, spa, or dermatologist"s office, but not all facials are available at all facilities — and some types benefit under a doctor"s supervision.Additionally, facials should not be used as a substitute for a visit to a dermatologist, regular skin checks, or correcting an ongoing skin problem."A facial can help improve conditions that dermatologists treat, but seeing a dermatologist is critical for optimal skin health because there are treatments that only licensed physicians can provide for acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and other skin conditions," says Jody Alpert. . Levine, MD, board-certified dermatologist and director of dermatology at NYC Plastic Surgery and Dermatology.

Individuals with specific skin concerns should consult a dermatologist to determine which facial treatment may work best for their skin concerns and how this may affect their treatment.If you"re new to facials or interested in exploring new types of facials to improve the health and appearance of your skin, here are 9 types to consider.One of the great things about facials is that you have so many options.

Keep in mind that skin care centers may use different names for their facials. If you are interested in something in particular, you can always call the office and ask if they have a facial that interests you.

1.  Classic Facial

Classic facial can be various local products for exfoliating dead skin cells and moisturizing the upper layers of the skin. Some may contain extracts, says Garshick. (Extraction is when an esthetician or dermatologist unclogs clogged pores.) These types of facials may also be called "deep cleansing facials," "brightening facials," or "hydrating facials."

In general, facials in this category can be tailored to your skin type and concerns. They relax. And they leave you feeling like a new version of yourself."It can leave skin smoother, plumper and brighter, although the results may be temporary," explains Garshick.

If you have sensitive skin, be careful because the products you use can cause irritation.Find one that suits your skin type. Or ask the spa what products they use and which might work best for your skin.

2. LED light therapy facial treatment

LED (light emitting diode) facial treatments use certain wavelengths of visible light to treat the skin.According to Kristin Gunn, a celebrity esthetician and owner of Beaux Medspa in Austin. "By exhaling light energy, it enters your skin at different depths, which stimulates specific skin responses," the procedure is an easy-to-use beauty treatment. , Texas.

For example, red light is used to stimulate collagen-producing cells to reduce lines and wrinkles. You can wait while the doctor uses the LED device on your skin, which is painless and takes about 20 minutes.Anyone can benefit from this type of facial, but especially if you have certain skin concerns. For example, LED can be a good tool for acne or mild psoriasis because the light can help reduce inflammation, adds Dr. Levine.

Keep in mind that it will take weeks of treatments before you see results like smoother skin or reduced redness and inflammation, and you"ll need to follow these facials to maintain results, says Dr. Levine. Using a home LED mask between treatments to complement a professional treatment can also help, adds Gunn: "These home devices are not as efficient and contain lower frequencies than professional machines, but still deliver the power of skin care."

3. Microneedling

Microneedling can almost be considered a facial exercise. When you exercise, you damage the muscle tissues that your body strengthens. "Microneedling uses a device with many small needles that stimulate controlled collagen damage to promote collagen stimulation," explains Kellie Reed, MD, dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology Austin. (Collagen provides structural support to the skin.)"Microneedling works well to treat acne scars or fine lines," says Dr. Reed.

It is also considered a safe and effective treatment for hyperpigmentation caused by acne scars in dark-skinned individuals.

4. IPL

photofacial Intense pulsed light (IPL) is another light-based device that can treat sun-induced discoloration, says Reed. The light penetrates the top layer of the skin to destroy cells that cause discoloration or broken blood vessels. These cells or blood vessels eventually break down and are reabsorbed into the body."It"s good for sun spots, freckles, age spots and broken blood vessels that cause rosacea and general redness," she says.

If you have melasma (a facial skin condition where brown, brown, or bluish-gray spots and blemishes often form during pregnancy), you should avoid IPL because it can worsen pigmentation. For best results, you should do several IPL treatments.

5. The Hydra facial 

The facial is a special proprietary treatment that involves three steps: cleansing and exfoliation, extraction (which involves sucking debris out of the pores), and hydration with moisturizers.

"It can help treat clogged pores and dry skin," says Reed. He adds that you may also be able to add a light chemical peel (more on that procedure below) to treat skin blemishes and lines as well.

It"s safe for most people, but if you have eczema, sunburn, or moderate to severe acne or rosacea, the facial may be too harsh on your skin, so talk to your dermatologist about what options are right for you. If you are pregnant, check with your doctor first because it uses salicylic acid.

6. Chemical peels

Chemical peels are a skin treatment that involves applying exfoliating acid, such as glycolic, salicylic acids, mandelic or lactic acids according to Garshick.In Levine"s office, glycolic acid peels are the most common and easiest peels he does. This means that a solution of glycolic acid (a type of alpha hydroxy acid) is applied to the face for a few minutes to remove dead skin cells.

The result is skin that looks smoother and brighter, she says.Chemical peels have several strengths, determined by the concentration of the acid and how long it stays on the skin, Levine adds. This means they can be adapted for beginners or people looking for a stronger treatment. This is great news, especially if you are new to chemical peels.

Tell the dermatologist or esthetician if this is your first treatment; they can talk about the right strength for you and what you need to achieve your goals.Another thing to remember: Skin can peel after a chemical peel, though not everyone does, Garshick says. So you really want to talk about what to expect before you get it.

7. Firming or reshaping facial (or "microcurrent facial")

Although there is no standard definition of a firming or reshaping facial, techniques such as facial massage, microcurrent (which uses low-level electrical current to stimulate collagen). ) or radiofrequency are often used to tighten and lift the skin, explains Jackie Spagnuolo, NP, aesthetic nurse practitioner and owner of Beauty Nurse NYC."Results can include firmer, more contoured skin, but maintenance treatments may be needed for longer-term effects," she says.

Because this category covers a wide range of treatments, it"s a good idea to first talk to your doctor to understand the tools and treatments you"re using and whether they"re right for your skin type and concerns.

8. Microdermabrasion

"Microdermabrasion is a form of physical exfoliation to remove dead skin cells," explains Garshick. The treatment uses an instrument that moves small crystals against the skin, removing the outer layer of the epidermis (skin).

Be aware, however, that microdermabrasion can be irritating and cause scarring (in some cases). So it"s not suitable for all skin types, says Garshick."Some people might like the instant glow they see," he says. However, it is not recommended for everyone. "Those with sensitive skin should avoid it," she says

9. Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning can be thought of as shaving the skin. "It gently exfoliates dead skin cells and removes "peach dust" to make skin smoother and brighter," says Gunn.This facial is best for those looking for a lighter skin tone, she says.

If you have sensitive or very dry skin, it might be too irritating. In this case, Gunn recommends oil planing, which is the use of oil to exfoliate the skin..