Subscribe Now | Newsletter | Contact us

The art of the facial

Find out what works and what doesn't when it comes to pampering your skin!

By Malena Harbers

To steam or not to steam
"Steam can be beneficial in the cleansing process and in allowing product to absorb better," says Penford. "But those who suffer from rosacea, sensitive skin or inflamed acne should stick to a warm rather than hot steam so as not to further irritate the skin condition." Patel's view? No steam necessary. "Steam was essential when professionals still did extractions with their fingers. They needed the steam to soften the skin in order to squeeze out the pores." Nowadays modern tools like the professional blackhead extractor do the job without the steam or the leftover marks.

Massage
"A firm massage on the skin gets the blood circulation going, plumps up the skin and makes it appear more awake," says Patel. Keep the pressure firm, use the tips of your fingers, and move upwards using continuous circular movements starting at the neck. "As long as you have a film of cream or oil on your skin your fingers will glide over it. You're not stretching it whatsoever, in fact, you're toning it," says Patel.

Maintenance
"People associate facials with breaking out afterwards," says Patel. "If you have a proper facial you should never have a breakout post treatment." And to keep results at bay for the month, proper at home care should be a part of your daily routine. "The right cleanser, exfoliating once a week, and facial massage every night make a huge difference."

For more information:

Vaishaly Patel in London, UK vaishaly.com

The International Dermal Institute in Toronto dermalogica.com




Share your beauty tips with other ELLE Canada readers in our forums!

Advertising


Related articles:
Natural beauty
Are you a high-tech or natural beauty?
Winter beauty and skin care tips


1. The art of the facial
2. Steam, massages and maintenance

Articles
Beauty tips: The 5-minute face
Hair removal 101
Interview: Stella McCartney
Hot pod: Soy skin-care

More
Products
Olay Total Effects for Blemish Prone Skin Daily Cl...
Flake Away body polish by Soap & Glory
Designers
Origins
Neutrogena
Brands
Biotherm
Pout
     
   
   
   OR  
   
     
   
     
     
  Advertising


 
     


See all our contests



Contact Us •  Advertise With Us  • Terms and Conditions • Privacy Policy


© 2008 Elle Canada.
All rights reserved
Our other sites
Canadian Living | Style at Home | Canadian Gardening | Canadian Home & Country | Homemakers | Canadian Home & Country | More | Mochasofa |