One of the most common questions estheticians get asked by clients is "how often should I book a facial?" Although everyone's skin is slightly different, there does seem to be a consensus when it comes to creating a facial schedule. Going in for a facial once or twice a year won't do much to help improve the skin. Going too frequently can also be bad news for the skin.
If you're an esthetician in training, here's what to tell your clients when they ask about setting up a schedule for facials.
Once a Month Is Ideal (Usually)
Generally speaking, scheduling one facial per month is ideal for most people, as the skin cell turnover cycle is about 28 days long, according to Allure. Going for a facial every four weeks or so gives a client's skin time to respond to the treatment.
There are some exceptions to the once-a-month recommendation, though. If a person has very dry skin, getting a facial every four weeks might be too much for their skin. It might be best for them to try getting a facial every five or six weeks instead. Clients with dry skin might start out with a facial every four weeks, then adjust the timing based on how their skin reacts to the process.
People with oily skin might require more frequent facials, such as every two or three weeks, or in certain instances, weekly.
The time of year can also dictate how often a person schedules a facial or the type of facial they receive. In the winter, someone with drier skin might want a more moisturizing treatment and might schedule more frequent treatments than in the summer. A person with oily skin might ease up on treatments in the summer.
What Clients Can Do Between Facials
Your clients will get the most from their facials if they take good care of their skin between treatments. As their esthetician, you can develop a skincare routine for them that will help them maintain their results and protect their skin from further damage.
One of the most important things your clients can do between facials is to limit sun exposure. The sun's UVA rays are among the leading causes of wrinkles and early skin aging. Tell your clients to wear an SPF every day. You might even want to recommend a particular product to them to help them out.
Along with protecting their skin from the sun, your clients can get the most out of their facials by exfoliating at least once a week, using a gentle scrub. Recommend products to your clients based on their skin types and needs. Some products are too harsh for certain types of skin while others might not be strong enough to do much good.
Remind your clients not to take matters into their own hands if they have a skin emergency while between facials. Popping pimples or trying to extract pores at home can cause their skin more harm than good. Have them set up an appointment with you between scheduled facials to clear up any pressing skin issues.
Are At-Home Facials Worth It?
A facial every month or so might not work with your client's budgets or schedule. Some might ask you if trying at-home products, such as paper or clay face masks, would be worthwhile or a good alternative to in-office facials.
While your clients might see some benefits from a home-based product, such as a clay mask or charcoal mask, they'll see even more benefits from a professional facial. If they can't swing one a month, try to get them on some sort of schedule, such as every other month or quarterly, to help them get the best skin possible.
Becoming a licensed esthetician allows you to help people reach their skincare goals and boost their confidence. The Cortiva Institute for Massage Therapy & Skin Care School offers skincare training programs at locations throughout the U.S. Contact us today to learn more.