As a busy mom, it can be difficult to find the time to go to the spa for facials or other treatments. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your self-care time and glowing complexion. You’re a parent, but you’re still a person. You deserve to feel beautiful and pampered. An at-home facial is just the thing you need.
Mama Needs a Facial!
Mama needs more than just a quick sheet mask in the shower. An at-home facial is the opportunity to take time to care for yourself and your skin. It can help you relieve stress, decompress from a hard day, reset, and reconnect to yourself. It’s so important to be able to release tension, so you can return to your mom duties relaxed and refreshed.
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I have the immense pleasure of providing facials to my community at my very own facial spa, and I know how beneficial these treatments can be. My clients come to me for more than beautification. They also seek relaxation, stress relief, and a short escape from reality. They leave feeling refreshed, lighter, in a better mood, with glowing skin.
Facials are absolutely magical.
What Is a Facial?
A facial is a deep cleansing skin care treatment to exfoliate the skin, removing impurities and nourishing the skin with specific ingredients. The techniques and products used vary depending on who’s providing the treatment. While a facial from a professional esthetician is ideal, you can still enjoy a lovely experience at home.
A basic facial usually includes the following steps: cleansing, exfoliating, toning, masking, and moisturizing. There are many ways to elevate your at-home facial experience and truly create a skincare escape. This time is just for you, so make it special.
Set the Mood
First things first. Before we even get into the steps or the products, we have to create the ambiance. Set the mood for a truly luxurious experience. Ignite all of your senses.
- Start with aromatherapy. I recommend lighting your favorite candle or diffusing a relaxing essential oil blend (lavender, jasmine, and bergamot are my top picks). Choose whatever fits the mood you’re in or trying to achieve.
- For taste, I recommend a cup of herbal tea. Try a hibiscus blend, chamomile, or even peppermint. The warmth is soothing and will definitely calm you. Not a fan of tea? Try spa water instead. Infuse your water with herbs or fruit for a true spa vibe. I suggest Cucumber and Lemon or Strawberry and Mint. Try different combinations until you find your favorites.
- Next, choose your tunes. Pick a playlist that you can really unwind to. Something soft and soothing. I enjoy jazz and acoustic vibes. You may enjoy nature sounds or thunderstorms. There’s no need to create something new. You can easily search your favorite music app or YouTube for a spa playlist.
Bonus Tip: Soak your feet. You’re probably thinking, “What does a foot soak have to do with a facial?” A facial supports more than just the skin on your face. At my spa, the goal is to provide total relaxation of the body and mind. Most of the treatments at Opulent Skin Suite begin with a warm foot soak to begin the relaxation process. It’s often unexpected (for new clients), but much appreciated. Try it, trust me you’ll like it. You can use a foot basin, large bowl, or your bathtub. Add some Epsom salts and enjoy the calm. Soak for 5-15 minutes (practice deep breathing while you soak) and then begin your facial.
Okay, now that the mood is set, let’s get into it.
The Facial
*Select products that suit your skin type and concerns.*
Step 1: Cleanse
You want to do this with intention, really taking your time. This first step will dissolve away makeup, dirt, and debris as well as encourage circulation. Massage your cleanser into the skin using upward, circular motions. Then remove with warm water. I like to use a cream cleanser for this step. It feels extra nice. You can use an oil, cream, gel, or foam cleanser. Want to take it to the next level? Use a facial steamer during this step. Steam helps to soften the skin and improve the efficacy of your products.
Step 2: Exfoliate
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and can smooth skin texture. You can use a scrub or a chemical exfoliant. My favorite is actually a combination of both. Follow the directions for the product you select.
Step 3: Tone
This is a MUST. Toner rebalances your skin and boosts hydration levels. This is essential for healthy skin. Don’t skip this step. Spritz your skin, generously, with toner after cleansing and exfoliating. Apply the next step while your skin is still damp.
Step 4: Mask
Masking is a great way to support and nourish your skin. Masks can help balance, hydrate, brighten, and soothe the skin. There are several types of masks to choose from: sheet, cream, clay, gel, and even combinations like hydrogel. Choose the type that best suits your skin’s needs and your current goals. Now would be a great time to sit back and enjoy that cup of tea!
Step 5: Hydrate
After removing your mask, spritz your skin with toner once more. Apply any serums you choose. Press these into the skin gently. (Tip: use a facial roller to help serums penetrate). Follow with your desired moisturizer. Take your time and slowly massage the products in. Feel how soft your skin is.
By now you’re feeling great, your skin is looking glowy, and your mood is lifted. I hope you decide to make this at-home facial routine a regular ritual. Your skin will appreciate your added efforts.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of El Paso Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
