Give Yourself A Facial

There are three steps to a good facial. The first being Exfoliation, the second being a Facial Mask, and the third being a Facial Massage.

Step One: Exfoliation

What is exfoliation? It’s the washing away of dead skin cells. This is a sort of deep cleansing that helps to make your skin feel softer and smoother. There are three methods you may wish to use for exfoliating your skin and which one you choose depends on your skin type and preference. You should use one of the following methods, do not use more than one method at a time as that will just cause your skin to become irritated.

Facial Scrubs. A facial scrub is a cream that contains an abrasive element designed to scrape away dead skin. You can find a facial scrub at many stores such as Target or Wal-Mart or more fancy high end stores. Apricot based facial scrubs are common. You can also create your own facial scrub at home by adding salt to a normal face cream or by mixing oatmeal with almost oil until it becomes a sort of paste. Whether you buy a pre made facial scrub or use a home made facial scrub you should apply them in the same way. First you should wet your skin and then rub the cream on your face and neck (do not put in your eyes or mouth.) Leave it on for about 10 minutes and then rinse off with warm water.

Abrasive Sponges. An abrasive sponge can be used with a regular facial cream or soap lather. When using this technique be sure not to rub too hard or you may irritate your skin.

Exfoliating Masks. An exfoliating mask is usually the best choice for those with sensitive skin that becomes easily irritated using the first two methods of exfoliation. This is because an exfoliating mask does not require any rubbing. You can find many different brands of exfoliating masks at the store. I do not recommend any exfoliating brand in particular. As each brand may have slightly different directions I recommend you follow the directions on the product but generally you leave an exfoliating mask on for about 15 to 20 minutes until it dries. You then peel it off or wash it off with water.

Step Two: Facial Mask

A facial mask is also sometimes referred to as a restorative mask. Which type of mask you buy (or make) depends on your skin type. When you buy a facial mask it will say what kind of skin type it is for on the product box so below I will focus on how you tell what kind of skin type you have and the ingredients you should use for a homemade facial mask for that type of skin. For homemade facial masks it is recommended that you spread a thin coat of the mask on your face and relax for about 20 minutes. Store bought facial masks will of course have directions on the product box.

Dry Skin. You have dry skin if your skin feels tight and/or it flakes. Makeup caking is another sign of dry skin. A homemade mask can be made by mashing together a banana with strawberries.

Oily Skin. You have oily skin if you have large pores with blackheads and pimples. You may experience your makeup fading or become discolored. Your skin may feel greasy.  You can make a hoemade mask for oily skin with a combination of oatmeal and orange juice. You will want to mix these ingredients together until they are an even pasty consistency. If you are experiencing acne with your oily skin you should also look into purchasing Vilantae to stop your acne breakouts.

Combination Skin. You have combination skin when some of your skin is oily and some of your skin is dry depending on the areas. With combination skin you may want to use two different masks. Use the oily skin mask for your oily skin areas and a dry skin mask for your dry skin areas.

Step Three: Facial Massage 

A facial massage is a nice luxurious way to end a facial. This can help you to relieve tension and to also improve your circulation.

First you should apply a massage oil or a skin cream on your face with your fingers. Use a light circular motion. Be careful to not get any in your eyes or mouth.

You should then slowly and gently massage your neck and face. Start off with your forehead, make your way to your eyes, and then to your cheekbones. Make your way to your chin and then finally down to your neck. Once you have reached your neck you can begin again with your forehead. Remember to take your time and be gentle. You can continue as long as you like but I recommend doing this for at least 10 minutes to get the full effect.