5 Things to Know Before Getting a Facial

Treating yourself to a facial fix-up? Know the answers to these common questions before heading to the dermatologist or spa.

What Will a Good Facial Do for You?
A facial should leave you feeling pampered, well moisturized, and deep-cleaned. Select a facialist with the same caution you would a manicurist. They must use clean utensils (towels, latex gloves, etc.) for each new customer, especially in terms of utensils used for extractions. Find out which facial procedure is right for your skin type.

Will It Hurt?

When a facialist is extracting blackheads, or squeezing out trapped impurities from clogged pores, slight discomfort is normal. Pain, however, is not. Pimple popping or blackhead removal that is so overzealous it hurts can lead to scarring. Try these pain-free ways to remove ingrown hairs, spider veins, and more common skin problems.

Is a Facial the Best Solution for Adult Acne?
That depends on the severity of your breakouts. Adult acne is usually mild and tends to clear up on its own or with a little self help, but if it persists or develops suddenly, that's a sign to visit the dermatologist. Mild-to-moderate cases are usually treated with topical medicines (they may contain benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, retinoids, and other ingredients) or oral medications (including antibiotics) if the case is more severe. A dermatologist may also do light therapy, chemical peels, and gentle facial extractions. If adult acne is an issue for you, consult your dermatologist for the best solution for your skin.

How Do Chemical Peels Work?
A medium-depth peel (like trichloroacetic acid, a.k.a. TCA) stimulates collagen growth by removing the top layer of skin. The body senses an injury and cranks out new healthy skin as a way of healing itself. You'll look like you have a bad sunburn for five to seven days, but then facial skin will be smoother and less lined for six months to a year. Expect to pay around $1,000. Reduce wrinkles and look 7 years younger with these other no-knife solutions.

What Are the Long-Term Effects?
While more and more women swear by their monthly facials, many dermatologists believe that facials have no real long-term impact on improving the skin or on fighting wrinkles. Chemical peels, however, can cause major damage if done too often. Dr. Harold Lancer, a Beverly Hills dermatologist, explains, "Too many chemical peels, and you look chronically inflamed. And then you have the overfilled look, like a puffer fish." When it comes to anti-aging strategies, how much is too much these days?

Are regular facials a part of your routine? How do you fight breakouts and wrinkles?

More from RealBeauty.com:

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.