Anti Aging Facial

An anti-aging facial will have all the steps of a basic facial, but with ingredients that are targeted to aging or "mature" skin, which is usually age 40 and up. But you can have anti-aging facials even when you're in your late twenties or early thirties because the skin is already showing signs of maturity.

Why do we need an anti-aging facial?  As we age, our skin gets thinner and dryer. It loses collagen, which gives it a thick, plump appearance, and elastin, which makes it snap back quickly.

The time it takes for healthy young cells to migrate to the topmost layer slow down, which makes skin duller looking. And our faces are more exposed to the elements and get lines and creases from all the facial expressions we make.

An anti-aging facial might include a chemical peel, collagen masks, and special serums that have antioxidants like vitamin C or ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which attracts water to cells) exfoliates and nourishes the skin to promote clear, well-hydrated skin. It is sometimes called a "deep-cleansing facial" or "deep-pore cleansing" facial because of extractions. 

The Basic Steps of an Anti-Aging Facial

• Cleansing. An anti-aging facial begins with a cleansing with cotton pads or sponges and a product chosen for mature skin, probably a creamy cleanser.

• Skin Analysis. We look your eyes and looks at your skin through a brightly lit magnifying lamp that reveals various skin conditions such as dry skin, broken capillaries, age spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. While older skin is less likely to have breakouts, sometimes there are large blackheads.

• Exfoliation using a mechanical or chemical exfoliate. Mechanical exfoliation has a gritty texture and usually happens while a steam vapor is directed at your face. A chemical peel can be a stand-alone treatment or part of the facial. It is generally an upgrade and done in a series.

• Extractions of blackheads or whiteheads if you want it and need it.

• Facial massage using classic strokes like effloration to both relax you and stimulate your skin and facial muscles.

• A facial mask targeted to mature skin.

• Application of toners, serums, and protective creams.

• Advice on home skin care.

How often should you get an anti-aging facial? Ideally, get a facial monthly to stimulate your skin's cellular turnover and assist with exfoliation. If your budget doesn't allow for that, have a facial at least four times a year, as the season changes.