Each facial begins with a consultation that helps the aesthetician determine the right products for your skin type and concerns. Once that's been determined, the relaxing part begins! Most basic facials include some version of the following five steps:

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• Cleansing

Aestheticians massage a cleanser into the face, neck, and décolletage to remove any makeup and dirt traces. Using warm water paired with a facial sponge, cloth, or cotton pad, they remove the cleanser, dry faces, and evaluate skin. This step helps them determine what type of custom mask they will apply later.

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• Exfoliation

Depending on the spa you're visiting, your aesthetician may buff away dead skin cells with an exfoliating cream or scrub and open up pores with steam.

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• Extractions

​This process is done to clear individual pores that have become clogged with excess oil or dead skin cells, forming blackheads and acne. Aestheticians will perform the extractions either by hand or with a unique metal tool.

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• Massage

​A facial typically also includes a massage of the face—and often, the upper body may be used to improve lymphatic drainage.

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