Whilst using a daily moisturiser is vital to the health and vitality of the skin, there is no doubt that a monthly facial boosts the skin and certainly pays dividends by rehydrating, balancing and firming the skin.



There are a wide variety of facials to choose from and it can be quite confusing choosing the right facial for you. Ideally visit a beauty salon that has been recommended to you and one that has fully qualified and experienced therapists. Any worthwhile beauty therapist will recommend the correct facial to suit your skin type and condition.

Anti-ageing facials and decongesting facials for problem skins appear to be the most popular at this moment in time. Facials do follow trends, a few years ago non-surgical facelifts were very popular, whereas now the importance of repairing the skin from sun damage, eliminating free radicals and encouraging our own collagen and elastin production are being recognised as vital to achieve a healthy, balanced and more youthful skin.

We can chose from a 'hands-on' facial where your therapist selects the appropriate preparations for your skin. These are usually derived from essential oils, plant extracts, vitamins or seaweed. After cleansing and exfoliating these preparations are introduced to your skin by way of a relaxing massage of face, neck and shoulders finishing with a mask to complete the treatment. Alternatively there is a mixture of 'hands-on' and 'machine' facials. These tend to be more effective as they can ionise the preparations deep into the dermis of the skin. This is the really important layer of the skin where the quality of your skin cells are determined. By working on this deep layer, we improve the condition and appearance of the top layer of skin, with results lasting up to a month. If this sounds a little daunting, don't worry...these facials are perfectly safe and relaxing, especially as the majority of therapists incorporate 'hands on' massage of face, neck and shoulders to help you relax and improve the circulation and lymphatic function of the skin.

Try to have a monthly facial as the skin cells have a lifecycle of one month, so after the month they are due for some maintenance. Be kind to yourself and your skin - it has to last you a lifetime!