There's More To A Facial Than Just Extractions

Question: What's the point of a facial that doesn't include extractions? Isn't cleaning your pores the main goal?

Answer: For younger patients with oily/combination skin, extractions may be a top priority, but there are lots of skin types for which extractions are too aggressive or unnecessary altogether. "Clients that have mature skin and are looking for firming, lifting and anti-wrinkle benefits, or clients with dry or sensitive skin, do not require them," says ​Liza Wong, master esthetician and founder of Elite Skin Care in San Francisco. "With the use of an exfoliant, the right skin care products and Galvanic current and microdermabrasion  machines, you can dissolve sebum and smooth and clean the skin." Plus, she adds, many people get facials to relax and unwind, and extractions done by an esthetician who isn't skilled in them can do more harm than good, damaging the pores and leaving clients with an uncomfortable, unpleasant experience. At home, your best bet for tackling clogged pores before an appointment with a professional is regular use of a gentle cleansing brush and bi-weekly chemical exfoliation (we love this one by Dr. Brandt).

From: HarpersBazaar.com