Skin Care

8 Secrets Your Esthetician Won't Tell You

You shell out major cash for a facial — but are you really getting your money's worth? Read on

by Sarah Carrillo

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You can ignore our sales pitches A good esthetician will want to set you up with the right at-home routine, so don't be surprised when she recommends products. Snyder points out that estheticians do a lot of research on the product lines they use, and you might as well use that knowledge to your advantage. But at no point should you feel pressure to buy, Snyder says. "I don't pressure anyone to buy anything, the decision is completely theirs! But a good at-home [skin care] program is crucial in caring for your skin."

Another red flag: If your esthetician recommends enough products to cleanse an army. "Less is more," Snyder says. "Many of my clients are surprised to learn how easy it is to get on a good at-home program that doesn't break the bank." She points out that so many skin care products are very similar, so (with your facialist's help) you should be able to put together a simple regimen that's within your budget.

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Older comments

Ah! I love the idea of getting a facial, but the idea of a scarred face is pretty scary!

by NillaButterfly Saturday, March 16, 2013 at 04:25PM Report as inappropriate

Good to know. I think I'll save my time and money by saving home.

by Chica181 Friday, March 15, 2013 at 07:22PM Report as inappropriate

Great story Sarah however # 9 is just not true. As a skin care professional for 18 years I've seen a lot of facials and when excellent products are used for the apppropriate skin type it is very apparent that the skin has had a facial even if its the first time. The skin will look luminous, plump and hydrated.

by linda_harding Tuesday, February 26, 2013 at 02:37PM Report as inappropriate

It would be nice to be to finish reading this article...after page 3 it goes to the end. This is the 10th time it just goes to the end....

by tenshinoyo Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 05:30PM Report as inappropriate

I wish I could read the rest of this artcle, it stops at page 3...this is not the first time. I would rather read the whole article on one page instead of clicking because this is probably the 10th time I can't finish an article.

by tenshinoyo Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 05:15PM Report as inappropriate

That's why I love coming to this site because they give you the REAL answers to questions not just trying to sell or promote something. I do a lot of my masks and stuff at home for one because I don't have money to spend like that and 2 because if anyone is going to do harm to my skin I would rather it be me then anyone else. Although I don't do things to myself without doing a lot of research first and then weigh out the pros and cons.

by pomomakeup Sunday, January 27, 2013 at 04:02PM Report as inappropriate

Interesting facts. I think it is really important to see an Esthetician every now and again (if not more often) for tips, product suggestions or for relaxation. With the right products and techniques, you can do much of the same at home.

by heather_hejna Thursday, January 24, 2013 at 10:47AM Report as inappropriate

Scary, but true.... Before you let anyone touch your precious skin, please ask lots of questions. If you don't feel comfortable or your unsure of the Esthetician or the procedure, don't feel pressured or obligated into it. A good salon will be understanding and accommodating as they want you to be happy... your face is now their potential referral/recommendation.

by Kinipela Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at 12:32PM Report as inappropriate

I've never had a facial but I have a certificate to get one (someday...soon, I hope). These are good things to know! My skin seems to do pretty well with the simple skincare routine I do at home so I can't really see myself making a habit of getting facials.

by tallredamanda Friday, January 11, 2013 at 02:08PM Report as inappropriate

I would love to try a facial

by LittleBunny Thursday, January 10, 2013 at 09:28AM Report as inappropriate