01.24.11
How To Give Yourself The Best Home Facial
source:flickr by:ToOb
Wouldn’t it be nice to have the time and resources to schedule a regular facial? It’s no secret that hitting the day spa for some intense pampering and complexion TLC is a great way to get clear, glowing skin. But, armed with the right plan and the right products, you can duplicate the experience and results of a professional facial in the comfort of your own home. Here’s a step-by-step guide designed to help you achieve complexion perfection!
1. Create your atmosphere. A professional facial is such a wonderful experience not only for the clear pores and refreshed glow you’re left with, but for the relaxation it allows. Perform your home facial during bona fide “me” time … no kids, no television, no ringing phones, no distractions! Put on some soothing music and maybe a light a candle or two. Slip into some comfortable clothes and pull your hair back into a ponytail, using a headband to get bangs out of the way, if need be. Have a cup of green tea, or perhaps a glass of water with fresh lemon wedges, on hand to quench thirst in a healthy way. For what’s to come in step 3, put a pot of filtered water on the stove to boil.
2. Cleanse your skin. Remove your eye makeup, if you’re wearing any, and get a clean face with your favorite cleanser, washing twice if you’re wearing makeup. Make sure the water is no more than lukewarm (cold water is also fine) and rinse thoroughly before gently patting dry with a clean towel.
3. Steam your skin. Here’s where the pot of boiling water comes into play. As with any task involving a stove and hot water, exercise caution. DO NOT put your face in front of the water while it’s on the stove. Instead, remove the pot from heat once the water is boiling, and, using a potholder, set it down on your kitchen or dining table. Sit down and close your eyes, then position your face so that it’s at least 8-10 inches away from the pot. Let the steam seep into your pores, and enjoy its calming effects for 2-3 minutes.
4. Exfoliate. Using your favorite scrub—one that’s meant specifically for your delicate facial skin(Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is fantastic) get rid of dulling surface-level dead skin. Even if you don’t get around to your home facial as often as you’d like to, exfoliating is something you should make a part of your regular routine, at least 3 times a week. Don’t forget to rinse thoroughly.
5. Treatment time! Now that you’re cleansed and exfoliated, and hopefully relaxed, your skin and your spirit are ready for the final phase of the home facial, which is a masque of your choosing. A clay masque is great for those with oily or acneic skin, but if your skin is tight and dry, reach for something nourishing moisturizing—even a mashed up avocado works!