What Exactly Is a Facial—and Why Does Everyone Love Them?

What Exactly Is a Facial?

A facial is a professional skincare treatment designed to give your skin exactly what it needs—whether that’s a deep cleanse, gentle exfoliation, or nourishing hydration. With an esthetician’s expert eye, you’re not only getting a customized mix of techniques and products, but also professional insight into your skin’s unique needs and progress over time. This helps clear pores, remove buildup, and refresh tired skin, leaving you with that radiant, healthy-looking glow we’re all after. Regular facials don’t just pamper, they play a key role in maintaining balance, preventing future concerns, and keeping your complexion smooth and luminous for the long haul.

Facials 101: The Most Popular Types

OK, so we’ve convinced you to book yourself an appointment. Before you schedule, it’s helpful to know the different types of facials available. Of course, you can (and should!) chat with your esthetician about your skin goals so they can tailor a treatment plan that works best for you. But if you want a head start, here are a few of the most popular options right now.

LaRosa tells us her most in-demand service is a dermaplane and HydraFacial combo, “which pairs exfoliation with deep hydration to reveal incredibly smooth, glowing skin.” Think of it as the ultimate reset button when your complexion is feeling dull or congested.

Another top pick? Microneedling, which LaRosa notes is “known for stimulating collagen and improving texture, tone, and acne scars over time.” This treatment has major long-term payoff if you’re looking to tackle skin concerns beyond the surface.

If a more dramatic skin renewal is what you’re after, LaRosa recommends the VI Peel: “It’s a medium depth peel that targets pigmentation, fine lines, and overall skin clarity.” It’s perfect for tackling stubborn sun damage after a long summer outdoors.

Why Facials Are A Must

Facials go far beyond a quick pampering session—they’re a true investment in your skin’s long-term health. The immediate results are easy to love: clearer pores, smoother texture, and that signature post-facial glow that only professional exfoliation and deep cleansing can deliver.

“Over time, facials help with hydration, improved circulation, and stimulating collagen, which supports firmer, more youthful-looking skin,” says LaRosa. They also give estheticians the opportunity to address specific concerns like acne, pigmentation, or early signs of aging with targeted treatments and expert guidance. And let’s not forget the wellness factor—facials double as a reset for your mind and body, leaving you relaxed, recharged, and glowing from the inside out.

What to Expect During a Facial

Not sure what actually happens once you’re in the treatment room? Here’s a step-by-step breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.

After your initial consultation (where your esthetician will assess your skin and chat about your goals) your appointment typically begins with a gentle cleanse to remove any makeup, oil, or impurities. LaRosa emphasizes that it’s best to “arrive with a clean face, avoid heavy makeup, and let your esthetician know about any recent treatments, sensitivities, or skin concerns—this helps them customize your experience.”

Next comes exfoliation, which could involve enzymes, peels, or dermaplaning to slough away dead skin cells and prep your complexion for deeper treatment. This is also when extractions may be done, if needed.

From there, it’s all about customization. Depending on your skin’s needs, your esthetician might focus on “hydration with a HydraFacial, targeted serums, or advanced therapies like LED light or microneedling, depending on what your skin needs that day,” says LaRosa. 

Once your facial wraps up, the aftercare is just as important as the treatment itself. Be gentle: Skip harsh exfoliants, avoid heavy makeup, and steer clear of too much sun exposure for at least 24–48 hours. Instead, focus on hydration, stick with the skincare your esthetician recommends, and drink plenty of water. Following these steps ensures your skin fully absorbs all the benefits and helps extend that post-facial radiance.

Keep the Glow Going: At-Home Care

The benefits of a facial don’t end when you leave the spa—what you do at home makes all the difference. Your daily skincare routine is what maintains your results and keeps your complexion looking its best in between treatments.

LaRosa explains, “I recommend incorporating key ingredients that target your specific skin needs. For example, hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for brightening and antioxidant protection, gentle enzymes or exfoliants to support cell turnover, and retinol or peptides for anti-aging benefits.”

Your esthetician can guide you toward the best products and routine to follow between visits. By sticking to the right daily essentials, you’ll extend the benefits of your facial and keep your skin looking healthy, balanced, and radiant. Think of your in-office treatment as the reset, and your at-home care as the upkeep that makes your glow last.