How to Give Yourself a Facial at Home

Let's face it (pun intended!), who doesn't love the feeling of walking out of a spa with a glowing complexion? But those spa treatments can put a dent in your wallet. Here's the good news: you can achieve similar results from the comfort of your own home with a DIY facial!

DIY facials are all about pampering yourself with a relaxing and effective skincare routine. They're perfect for Aussies who want to:

• Save some cash – DIY facials are significantly cheaper than spa treatments.

• Customise their experience – choose products based on your specific skin concerns.

• Enjoy a convenient self-care ritual – fit it into your busy schedule during downtime.

Sounds good, right? 

This guide will walk you through every step of the DIY facial process, so you can create your little spa oasis at home. 

What is a Facial?

A facial is a multi-step skincare treatment designed to cleanse, exfoliate, nourish, and revitalize your skin. Other than traditionally performed by a professional esthetician in a spa setting, facials can also be done very effectively at home. So you can transform your bathroom into a mini spa haven! Light some calming candles, put on some relaxing music, and dim the lights. These little touches will create a truly luxurious atmosphere and enhance your entire at-home facial experience.

Facial at Home - A step-by-step process

Let's ditch the expensive spa treatments and create a luxurious facial experience right at home! Here's a step-by-step guide to transform your bathroom into a mini spa haven. Get ready for glowing, healthy skin that won't break the bank.

Step 1: Double Cleanse 

Think of double cleansing as a one-two punch to remove every trace of makeup, sunscreen, and dirt that builds up throughout the day. Here's how it works:

• Oil Cleanse: Start with an oil cleanser. This gentle oil attracts makeup and sunscreen, leaving your skin feeling soft and refreshed. Think coconut oil or a cleansing oil formulated for your skin type Australian brands like Mecca Cosmetica or Aesop offer great options. Massage the oil onto dry skin for a minute, then emulsify it with water to create a milky consistency. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

• Water-Based Cleanse: Now, follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser to remove any remaining residue and impurities. Opt for a cleanser suitable for your skin type – foaming for oily skin, creamy for dry skin, and fragrance-free for sensitive skin. Massage the cleanser into damp skin for another minute, then rinse well with lukewarm water.

Pro Tip: Micellar water can be a great alternative for the first cleanse, especially if you're short on time. It acts like a magnet, attracting makeup and dirt without stripping your skin's natural oils.

Step 2: Exfoliation 

Exfoliation is like giving your skin a fresh start by removing dead skin cells. This promotes a brighter, smoother complexion and allows your skincare products to penetrate deeper. But remember, gentleness is key!

Here's the lowdown:

• Frequency: Aim for gentle exfoliation 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin type.

• Method: Exfoliating scrubs are readily available, but be sure they have gentle, rounded particles. Alternatively, a chemical exfoliant with AHAs (for dry skin) or BHAs (for oily skin) can be used if you're comfortable with them.

Remember: Always patch-test a new product on a small area of your face before applying it all over.

Step 3: Steam & Extraction:

Steaming helps open up your pores, making them appear less noticeable. You can achieve this by:

• Steaming: Drape a towel over your head and hold your face over a bowl of steaming hot water (be careful not to get too close!). Alternatively, take a hot shower and let the steam work its magic.

• Warm Washcloth: A simpler option is soaking a washcloth in hot water and placing it over your face for a few minutes.

Here's the important part: We strongly advise against forceful extraction of blackheads. This can lead to scarring and irritation. If you have stubborn blackheads, it's best to consult a professional for a safe extraction.

Step 4: Facial Mask Magic 

Now comes the fun part – the facial mask! Masks come in various forms to target specific concerns:

• Hydrating Masks: Perfect for dry or dehydrated skin, these masks are packed with moisture-boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera.

• Clay Masks: Great for oily or acne-prone skin, clay masks absorb excess oil and help minimize pores.

• Purifying Masks: These masks are formulated to combat blemishes and even out skin tone.

Choose a mask based on your skin type and concerns. Apply it according to the product's instructions, typically leaving it on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat your face dry.

Step 5: Tone & Moisturize 

While toner isn't essential, it can help remove any leftover residue from the mask and balance your skin's pH level. Choose an alcohol-free toner suitable for your skin type. Apply it with a cotton pad, gently wiping across your face.

Now comes the hero of every skincare routine – moisturizer! This locks in all the goodness from your previous steps and keeps your skin hydrated and plump.

• Moisturizer Selection: Choose a moisturizer based on your skin type. Look for lightweight lotions for oily skin or richer creams for dry skin. SPF is crucial in Australia, so opt for a moisturizer with SPF 50+ during the day.

Step 6: Eye Routine

The delicate under-eye area deserves some extra love. Apply a dedicated eye cream formulated to address concerns like puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines. Gently pat a small amount of product under your eyes using your ring finger.

The Finishing Touches:

Finally, don't forget your lips! Apply a hydrating lip balm to soften and smooth your pout.

Relax and Enjoy!

Now that you've completed your DIY facial, take a moment to relax and appreciate your radiant skin! Dim the lights, light some candles, and sip on a soothing herbal tea. You deserve it!

Pro Tips for a Flawless DIY Facial

Now that you've got the DIY facial process down pat, let's elevate your experience with a few insider secrets!

Patch Test:

New products can be exciting, but sometimes they can trigger unexpected reactions. Avoid any potential drama by doing a patch test before using a brand-new mask all over your face. Simply apply a small amount of the product to your inner forearm (a sensitive area similar to your face) and wait 24 hours. If there's no redness, itching, or irritation, you're good to go!

Hygiene:

Imagine your hands as little transport carrying bacteria and filth all over your face. Wash them thoroughly with warm water and soap before touching your skin during your facial. This goes for your makeup brushes too! Regularly cleaning them helps prevent the build-up of bacteria that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Relax and Recharge:

A DIY facial isn't just about pampering your skin, it's about pampering yourself! Light some candles, put on some relaxing music, dim the lights, and create a calming atmosphere. Take deep breaths and let the stress melt away. This approach allows your skin to truly grasp the benefits of the treatment and leaves you feeling refreshed.

Skin Care Secrets

Your DIY facial is a fantastic way to give your skin a boost, but true radiance comes from consistent care. Your daily routine is the foundation for healthy skin. Here's how to keep that post-facial glow going:

• Cleanse, Moisturize, Protect – The Daily Must-Do's: Just like your DIY facial, cleansing and moisturizing are essential every day. Wash your face twice a day (morning and night) with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. Follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. And remember, Australia's sunshine is no joke! Sunscreen with SPF 50+ is a non-negotiable every single day, even when it's cloudy.

• Consistency is Key: Building a consistent skincare routine is like showing your skin some love every day. The more consistent you are, the better your skin will respond. Think of it like a workout for your face – the more you do it, the better the results!

• Seek Expert Advice: While DIY facials are a great way to take care of your skin, sometimes you might need a helping hand. If you have specific concerns like acne, rosacea, or premature ageing, consulting a dermatologist can be very helpful. They can recommend personalized treatments and products to address your unique needs.

Now that you've learned about the DIY facial, you can treat yourself to a spa-like experience anytime you need. If you're passionate about makeup and taking your skincare knowledge to the next level, Makeup School Sydney offers a range of professional courses. 

Certificate III in Make-Up provides students with the skills to enhance natural beauty while emphasizing healthy skin practices.

For those who want a deeper knowledge of skincare and advanced beauty treatments, SHB50121-Diploma of Beauty Therapy might be the perfect fit.

Regular facials, combined with a good daily skincare routine, will keep your skin looking radiant and healthy. So, go forth, pamper yourself, and enjoy the confidence that comes with glowing skin!

Embrace the Power of DIY Facials with Makeup School Sydney.

FAQ

How frequently should you conduct a facial at home?

Answer: It is recommended to perform a facial just once a week. 

How often should I do a deep cleansing facial?

Answer: Most dermatologists recommend deep cleansing facials at least once a month or every 4-6 weeks.

How long should a basic facial last?

Answer: Most facials usually last between only 60 and 90 minutes.

Do you wear makeup to a facial?

Answer: There's no need to remove your makeup before your facial; your esthetician will simply remove it during the washing phase of the facial. The cleansing phase of the facial occurs even if you are not wearing makeup, therefore wearing makeup will not interfere with the procedure.

What sort of facial should I have for the first time?

Answer: You should go for facials that provide deep cleaning and pore tightening. Clay masks, salicylic acid treatments, and facials aimed at regulating oil production can be quite effective. Regular exfoliation can also help keep your pores clean.

How frequently should you steam your face?

Answer: People with oily skin gain the most from facial steaming, therefore you may probably do it twice or three times each week. If you have dry skin, steam once a week to avoid overdrying. Those with sensitive skin should avoid using steam.