Selecting The Right Facial For Your Skin Concerns

Those who have felt the power (and the results) of a good facial know that, when delivered by the right technician, a treatment can change your mood, your skin and your day. But as technology progresses and new and unique treatments continue to stream in from across the world, the simple days of steam-extraction-mask are just about over. 

Spa-goers today are more educated than ever about the state of their skin, but many still freeze up when faced with a mile-long menu of options. So in the interest of simplicity, our experts have broken down your options into two categories: the tech and the hands-on.

TECHNOLOGY FUSED WITH HANDS-ON

One of the most technologically-driven facials on the market is one offered by OneSpaWorld at most of our spas at sea and on land. The ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial is a perfect example of the evolution of aesthetics, fusing touch and technology to create ultra-personalized facials. Guests undergo a SkinLab consultation using 3D skin and facial mapping technology that provides an in-depth analysis of the skin’s condition showing the depth of lines and wrinkles, the skin’s texture, open and enlarged pores, brown spots from the sun and red areas that are considered sensitive skin. By seeing such a comprehensive view of the skin, the esthetician will develop a customized facial based on the areas of concern using the BIOTEC machine which will do the work to “switch the skin back on, increasing its natural cellular energy.” Options can include:

Anti-Aging

Wrinkles are targeted with firming and toning microcurrent pulses, stimulating circulation. Red and blue light therapy warms and de-stresses the skin while a blast of oxygen plumps and revives the skin.Â

Brightening and Resurfacing

During these treatments, the BIOTEC machine (at the hands of the therapist) delivers an ultrasonic peel to smooth the complexion, which combines with light therapy and targeted masks to revive and balance the skin.

Sensitivity and Blemish Control 

Redness is calmed with red light therapy and anti-inflammatory extracts to combat sensitive skin, while those who struggle with breakouts are treated to ultrasonic vibration, massage, steam, and galvanic current to decongest and exfoliate the skin.

PURELY HANDS-ON

Using ancient and modern massage techniques, these facials put guests quite literally in the hands of trained estheticians, as they use their knowledge and skill to revive, rejuvenate and repair a plethora of skin concerns. Techniques include:

Layering

By layering serums and/or solutions to the skin, estheticians can bring about a massive change in skin texture. The Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Peel, for example, uses three layers of enzymes to nibble away the dead skin, delivering powerful exfoliation and renewal and allowing steam and extractions to cleanse at deeper levels.

Lymphatic Massage 

Targeted lymphatic drainage massage can reenergize and rejuvenate tired skin. This style is well-regarded as a quick and easy way to de-puff the eyes and sculpt the jawline and cheekbones by reducing swelling.

Extracts 

Choosing the correct natural (or chemical) ingredients is a key aspect of both types of massage, using specific combinations to result in a natural glow. Marine-charged Padina Pavonica and Red Coral help plump out fine lines while Indian Mulberry reduces skin fatigue to relax wrinkles and Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc, Vitamin A and E form a mineral army to jumpstart tired and exhausted skin.

Before choosing the right facial, always ask yourself, “What concern do I have with my skin?” 

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