Acne continues to be one of the world's most common skin problems and has been for many many years, affecting teenagers, young adults, and even some in their 30s and 40s. Acne may flare up more often due to certain issues including diet, lifestyle and hormones. That said, professional treatments can have a significant impact on the amount of acne, as well as the associated skin condition. An acne facial is one acne treatment that can help improve any skin condition along with the acne itself.
If you are searching for a way to improve your skin that is painless, non-invasive and effective in the treatment against acne, look no further than a specially designed acne facial! Here are Long-term Acne Facial Treatments: pros and cons, effectiveness, and how to maintain the results.
What is an acne facial?
An acne facial is a professional skin treatment specifically for acne-prone skin. While facials may be similar, acne facials have techniques and products specific to treating clogged pores, reducing inflammation and treating excess oil.
Acne facials, which are usually administered by licensed estheticians or dermatologists, generally include deep-cleansing, some form of chemical exfoliation, manual and/or mechanical extractions, an antibacterial mask, and/or a soothing treatment. Each facial is specifically designed to help the client in the conditions of their skin (mild blackheads, cystic acne, post-acne scarring, or more severe skin conditions).if you are thinking of an acne facial and looking for acne facial near me then this guide is for you.
Benefits of Acne Facials
1. Deep-Cleansing of Skin
Most daily cleansing products used in skin-regimen daily cleansing do not deep-cleanse skin enough to remove all of the trapped oils, dead skin, and bacteria lodged deep inside the pores of the skin. Acne facials do not use skin "regimen" daily cleansing, but rather use modalities that are prescription strength and used for deep cleansing the skin, delivering to the skin thru modalities (steam), which helps open the pores and soften the trapped impurities for deeper cleaning than ever can be done at home.
2. Extraction of Blackheads & Whiteheads
One of the primary purposes of an acne facial is the safe extraction and removal of blackheads, whiteheads, and other clogged sebum. This is frequently done during the facial treatment using the esthetician's fingers, or sometimes with the esthetician using a mechanical device outside the fingers. The primary purpose of extraction is to improve the texture of the skin, while also providing opportunities for blockage.
5. Diminishing Scars and Pigmentation
Over time and with continued acne, facials, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or the dark spots that form after blemishes have healed, can begin to fade. Acne facials promote healing in a healthy way so you can expect to see over time some improvement in your scarring and overall skin tone.
6. Relaxation and Decreasing Stress
Stress and hormones are often contributors to acne. The medical benefits of an esthetician practicing acne facials will often give you the benefit of relaxing as well. A relaxed mind may help alleviate some of those hormones - a large contributor to healthier skin.
How an acne facial, can typically look: step by step:
While this can vary from clinic to clinic, here is a typical step by step when it comes to acne facials:
Consultation
The process begins with a consultation where the esthetician looks at your skin type, severity of acne, lifestyle, and current routine to then begin to customize the facial treatment for your needs.
Cleansing/Steaming
The esthetician will begin with a deep cleanser to remove dirt and make up, followed by steam to soften the pores and prep for the next steps.
Exfoliation
Depending on your skin, a mild chemical peel or mechanical exfoliation is applied to remove dead skin cells.
Extractions
The esthetician uses professional tools and is mindful of the pressure, so as not to traumatize the skin, while delicately extracting blackheads, whiteheads, and clogged pores.
Mask
An antibacterial or calming mask is placed on the top of the face and generally contains clay, sulfur, salicylic acid, or tea tree oil, which will help with redness and bacteria.
Serums and Moisturizer
Estheticians typically use lightweight serums and non-comedogenic moisturizers to replace moisture in the skin and assist with the skin's recovery from exfoliation.
Sunscreen
Patients will receive application of a broad spectrum sunscreen after they have been exfoliated because this increases sensitivity to sunlight.
Who is a Good Candidate for an Acne Facial?
Most people with breakout-prone skin are eligible for a treatment for acne issues. However, it is more specifically recommended for individuals who:
1. Have persistent blackheads and whiteheads;
2. Have mild to moderate acne ( but not cystic acne or severe cases);
3. Have oily and/or congested skin;
4. Have post-acne discoloration or minor scarring;
5. Are looking for a low-risk, low-downtime procedure to help manage acne medicinally.
Severe cases of cystic acne, deep nodules or inflamed skin should see a dermatologist first, medical treatment is frequently needed before or in addition to the facial.
How often should you get an acne facial?
The timing of your treatments will depend on skin type and severity of acne. In general, it is recommended to start with a free facial treatment every two to four weeks and then go to every six to eight weeks as improvement is noted.
It is important to remember consistency will determine results– you will not be able to resolve a long-reining issue in just one facial. If you are faithful to the esthetician each month and create a good at-home regimen, your dedication will be rewarded.
Risks and Side Effects
Acne facials are generally deemed safe for most individuals. Redness and sometimes mild swelling, or sensitivity after an acne facial treatment, can occur in some clients but will usually last no more than 24-48 hours.
Important Steps to Reduce Risk:
Always see a professional who is licensed – esthetician, physician or dermatologist.
- Do not touch your skin treatment or pick at your face, it is poor practice before and after treatment.
- Every instruction given to you with aftercare should be followed.
- Staying on Track with Dermatological
Treatments at Home
The best results from treatment are achieved when combined with home care. A few things for you to accomplish at home will assist you in maintaining the results you achieved, they are:
1.Always wash your face two times a day with a gentle, mild, non-comedogenic cleanser.
2.Use an acne treatment that is appropriate with Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide.
3.Implement a moisturizer daily—even when your skin is oily (oil-free moisturizers).
4.Every day use sunscreen every day, to help minimize hyperpigmentation.
5.Your hands should not pick at or touch the face, because it could spread bacteria, whether there is active acne or not that will keep acne from healing.
Final Thoughts:
Facials can be a great complementary treatment for acne. Most facials will involve first and foremost a cleansing that will gently cleanse the skin by removing any build-up or dead skin from the surface of your facial area. Second, an exfoliation that is meant to give you smoother skin if applicable. Third, the treatment will include extraction of any impurities like blackheads or white heads. Then a product will be used for your skin issues and you will spend some time thinking about your skin and how you would want to feel on the outside. Facials often will not be one and done treatment. However, facials in addition to your at home treatment or peri treatment recommendations will help continue to reduce the chances of further breakouts or a chance to improve your skin tone over time.
