A facial is a great way to take care of your skin. Find out exactly what happens during a facial, why it's good for you and how often you should get one.

A facial cleans, exfoliates and nourishes the skin to promote clear, well-hydrated skin. A facial is the second most popular spa treatment after massage. It is sometimes called a "deep-cleansing facial" or or "deep-pore cleansing" facial because of extractions.

The Basic Steps of a Facial

Cleansing. A facial begins with a cleansing with cotton pads or sponges and a product chosen for your skin type (normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive, mature.) Skin Analysis. The esthetician covers your eyes and looks at your skin through a brightly lit magnifying lamp that reveal various skin conditions. Exfoliation using a mechanical or chemical exfoliant. Mechanical exfoliation has a gritty texture and usually happens while a steam vapor is directed at your face. A chemical peel can be a stand-alone treatment or part of the facial. It is generally an "upgrade" and done in a series.

Extraction of blackheads or whiteheads if you want it and need it. (It can cause broken capillaries and discoloration if done on sensitive skin, or done improperly.) People have different pain tolerance for extractions. They can be uncomfortable, especially on thin or ruddy skin.

Facial massage using classic strokes like effleurage to both relax you and stimulate your skin and facial muscles.

A facial mask targeted to your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive, mature) and condition. During the facial, the esthetician should stay in the room and give you a scalp massage or some other service. If they leave the room to let you "relax," don't go back.

Application of toners and protective creams.

Advice on and home skin care.

Who Gives A Facial?

A professional facial should be given by a licensed esthetician with special training in skin care. They are sometimes also called aestheticians or facialists.

A cosmetologist is legally allowed to give facials, but their primary focus training is in hair, so they aren't the best choice. You also want to find an esthetician who is knowledgeable, fastidious, and passionate about their work.

How Much Does a Facial Cost?

A facial usually starts around $75 at a day spa in a smaller city. Prices will be higher at destination spas, resort and hotel spas. Special masks and serums also make the price go higher.

How Often Should I Get A Facial?

It varies from person to person. Ideally, get a facial monthly because that's how long it takes the skin to regenerate. Try to have a facial at least four times a year, as the season changes. You may need it more frequently if you are trying to clear up a case of acne, especially at the beginning. Otherwise, once a month is plenty. You can overdo it.

Variations on the Classic European Facial

Variations on the classic European facial include the mini-facial (a 30-minute treatment that usually skips extractions). Use a line formulated for mature skin, with ingredients like vitamin C, and you have an anti-aging facial. It's an oxygen facial when a mist of pure oxygen is part of the treatment, or the products are formulated to deliver oxygen to the dermis. It's a collagen facial (also anti-aging) when special collagen sheets are placed on the skin. An acne facial will pay special attention to extractions. A photo facial is a separate light treatment to achieve specific results like boosting collagen or treating acne.

Source: Anitra Brown, About.com Guide