Читать книгу The Complete Make-Up and Beauty Book - Leigh Toselli - Страница 31

The skin’s horny layer or stratum corneum is basically a graveyard for dead skin cells. Every 28 days or so, skin cells called keratinocytes migrate from the lowest level of the epidermis to the stratum corneum to die, forming a shield that keeps out harmful substances and helps block moisture loss.

So it makes sense to entrust the care of such a vital organ to a facial therapist. Even people with a normal skin are advised to wait four weeks between facials (for the full keratinization process) simply because too much of anything can irritate the skin. Anyone with inflamed acne, redness, pimples, or enlarged blood vessels should rather consult a dermatologist.

A typical facial at a salon will consist of cleansing, exfoliation, massage, extraction, and moisturizing. Ideally, skin type dictates treatment. For example, someone with oily skin will get an oil-absorbing mud mask, while someone with dry skin will have a facial massage with a rich moisturizer. So before laying a hand on you, an aesthetician should examine your skin carefully.

Most therapists report a substantial improvement in the texture and condition of the skins they treat. This is partly because an expert eye and a different pair of hands will be able to assess and treat problem areas more easily than you could yourself. The benefits aren’t just restricted to your face – an hour in a beauty salon is a relaxing experience that relieves stress and gives your whole system a boost.

While you are having your facial, ask the beautician what she is doing, which products she is using and which she thinks will work for you. Look out for tips that you can use at home. Finally make a mental note of how your skin feels and looks after the facial to learn from the treatment.