Facial: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What facial is

An esthetician cleanses, exfoliates and treats your skin with products and techniques chosen for your skin type. Facials are used for everyday care, for a special event and for skin that needs regular attention.

Signs you need it

  • Your skin feels dull, congested or rough and you want a deep clean
  • You have frequent breakouts and want a plan for cleansing and extraction
  • You want a glow before a wedding, a photo shoot or a special event
  • Your skin is dry, dehydrated or sensitive and needs a gentle treatment
  • You want a regular skin routine guided by a professional

What the pro does

  • Asks about your skin type, concerns, allergies and any products or treatments you already use
  • Cleanses your face and checks the skin for any signs that need attention
  • Exfoliates the skin with the method chosen for your skin type
  • Performs extractions or masks, if your skin and the plan call for them
  • Applies serums, moisturizers and sun protection suited to your skin
  • Gives you a home care plan with the products to use and the ones to avoid

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The type of facial, such as a basic cleansing facial or a targeted treatment
  • Whether extractions, masks or massage are included
  • Your skin condition and how much time the treatment needs
  • The products used and whether they are professional or retail products
  • Whether a consultation is included before the first treatment
  • How often you come back for a plan that gives results over time

What a written quote should spell out

  • The facial type, the steps included and the time for the appointment
  • Whether extractions, masks and massage are part of the service
  • Whether a skin consultation is included before the first visit
  • The products used and whether a home care kit is included
  • The cancellation and late arrival terms

Questions to ask before you hire

  • What are you doing to my skin, step by step?
  • How will you adjust the facial for my skin type and any sensitivity?
  • Do you use extractions, and how do you keep them gentle?
  • What products do you use, and do you have a list of their ingredients?
  • What should my skin look like after the facial, and how soon will it settle?
  • What home care do you recommend between visits?
  • Are there any treatments that I should avoid if I am using a prescription product?

Red flags

  • Does not ask about your skin, allergies or current products before starting
  • Performs aggressive extractions or scrubbing that leaves the skin raw
  • Promises a cure for acne or other conditions that need medical care
  • Pushes a large package of products or treatments before the first facial
  • Uses products with no clear ingredient information or no way to check them

What you can do yourself

You can cleanse your face gently each day, apply sunscreen and moisturizer, and avoid harsh scrubs that break the skin barrier. Keep a simple routine and track how your skin responds. Hire an esthetician for deep cleansing, extractions, peels or any treatment for a skin condition that does not clear up, and see a doctor for skin problems that are painful, spreading or getting worse.

Licenses and permits

Facials are commonly covered by state esthetics or cosmetology rules, and most states require an esthetician license for paid facial work. Check with your state's esthetics or cosmetology licensing board before you book.

Facial questions

How often should I get a facial?

It depends on your skin, your goals and how your skin responds. Ask the esthetician for a schedule and a home care plan that fits your routine.

Will my skin be red after a facial?

Some redness is common after extractions or exfoliation and usually settles in a short time. Ask the esthetician what to expect for your skin, and tell them if the redness lasts longer than they described.

Can a facial treat acne?

A facial can help manage some breakouts, but it is not a cure. If your acne is painful, deep or not improving, see a doctor for treatment options.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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