Skin Cycle

As we have discussed the past few weeks, the skin renews itself every 3-4 weeks. As the new layer of skin comes to the top, stress, diet, and even hydration will show up compared to how you have been caring for yourself.

At this stage of the cycle, we want to reveal that fresh, dewy layer (hopefully, if you have been following the program). Giving the face and neck area extra care will help them look better and not aging-like-milk, for another month.

The Facial

Many of us who work in media have to use makeup to look presentable at work or appear in front of a camera. A facial, at least once a month but can be done weekly if you wear a lot of makeup, will help cleanse, deep clean and remove impurities from the pores. It is best to do it when you don’t need to wear makeup for a day or two.

The minimum would be once a month. The monthly facial will help remove dead skin cells from the face and neck area, revealing the new skin.

What To Expect

The facial begins with a cleanse, but if I was using a lot of makeup every day I would ask for a double cleanse. This will ensure that bits of grime that are left behind after the first cleanse will be swept away by the second cleanse, allowing for more benefits from the treatment as the facial continues.

The second step is a steaming. To steam at home, I used to use a large mixing bowl with hot water, not boiling, and a towel over my head, for a pleasant sauna effect. A friend of mine would take it a step further and add lavender or other herbs, depending on her mood.

This is then followed by an exfoliation, but do be careful with what product you choose. Avoid scrubs and anything that could potentially tear the skin, such as those peel-your-face-off masks.

Following exfoliation, it’s time for a mask. You have the power to choose from a variety of options. Keep three at home: sheet masks that stay moist, one that suits your skin type, and a third for specific needs like brightening or hydration. This way, your at-home skincare routine is tailored to your unique skin maintenance and needs. 

Lastly, apply a moisturiser and do a five minute face and neck massage.There are plenty of ideas for light massages on YouTube. Leave the product on overnight to do its thing, while the massage is wonderful for anti-aging because it helps the muscles relax, let go of fluid, assists the small glands around the face to release waste, therefore releasing bodily waste, and allowing the muscles to unfreeze from continued expression.

After your facial, drink an adequate amount of water to flush out toxins released by the body.

How Often

If you can afford it, a professional facial once a month would be ideal. With products you can take home, a maintenance program at home once a week would work well.

If a professional facial is not an option, create a soothing and comfortable environment at home. Find a quiet, relaxing space, play some spa music, slip into a spa-like dressing gown, and gather products that cater to your unique skin type needs. Your skin needs may change from week to week.

The most challenging aspect of at home facials, can be selecting the right products. Avoid grainy exfoliants or peel-off masks. Understand your skin type, is it sensitive, dry or oily, or mature? These are some things to consider. My professional advice is to keep your program simple, to begin with, and observe what works and what doesn’t work. The body will respond to good care, the facial is a part of nurturing your skin.

Follow the basic steps and keep things simple for the best results. Once you have established this routine, you will feel confident in achieving great skincare.