If you follow my blog then you have recently read about who I think the skin experts are. If you haven’t here it is in short, Dermatologists and their crews. That doesn’t mean there aren’t other people out there who know skin well. I think a common misconception is when it comes to facials. I have patients come in with acne on a regular basis and complain that they don’t understand why “nothing works”and that they “get facials all the time”. I think facials are like massages. If you hurt your back, a massage won’t cure a pulled muscle but man it sure does feel good and help you along the way. There are dangers with facials in the wrong hands. I still don’t like scrubs, beads and harsh products on the skin. I see facial aftermath nightmares from time to time in the clinic and it frightens me for our patients. There are also things I love about facials. As a matter of fact, I got one this weekend. You should just be careful about what your expectations are with facials. Be picky about who you go to and let treat your skin. Ask your dermatologist who is a good aesthetician and what procedures you should or should not have done to your skin while at the spa. My favorite aesthetician is opening a spa this week, Amanda Wade at The Violet Room. It is across the street from the Electric Cowboy, next door to World Class Fitness. She will take good care of you. I’m very confident in her skill set. Here is my list of why you should get a facial with Amanda and what to expect.
1. It’s relaxing. How often do we stop and relax in this busy world we live in? Stress isn’t good for your body or your skin. You deserve a little pampering, trust me.
2. Extractions- “black head” gently removed. Extractions can go way wrong in the wrong hands. Someone who isn’t trained properly could try to drain or extract a cyst, make it inflamed or worse. Beware that without good skin care regimen you will just be spinning your wheels in the mud but this is a nice service Amanda offers.
3. Your skin feels good when you leave. After all the cleansing, massaging, enzymes, lotions and potions your skin will feel so soft when you leave. It’s soft, moisturized, plump and flat out luxurious.
4. Don’t expect an acne cure or a prolonged effect- I don’t care if it is a prescribed medicated cream or an enzyme put on during a facial, a one time application isn’t going to CHANGE your skin for the rest of your life. Your skin has a little life cycle of its own which is why it needs a constant regimen of care and upkeep. Change your skin with a skin care routine using products and procedures that work (consult your derm for this).
5. Don’t go get your first facial the day before your wedding. What if you have a flare from irritation? What if you are allergic to one of the products used? Trust me this could turn out bad, probably would be fine but don’t take a chance. If it’s the week of your wedding come see your dermatologist on Monday for a quick fix that works for rashes, acne, etc. Although, the best way to prepare for your wedding ready skin is seeing your dermatologist at least 6 months in advance.
It’s hard to sift through all of the people out there who recommend treatments for your skin. Let me help you. Let your dermatologist help you. I had a facial on a cruise once and the rest of the week my face looked like a piece of pizza. Yes, I’ve done it too, fallen for false advertisement from someone I shouldn’t have trusted, who wasn’t an expert.
I am so thankful that Amanda has opened The Violet Room. It is a relaxing atmosphere and now there is someone to whom I can send my patients and whom I trust with my skin. Someone who I know will treat my patients well and take good care of their skin. Amanda is a talented aesthetician who knows her qualities, skills and limitations. Knowing your limitations in your role can sometimes be your best asset for your clients and patients (and that goes for all health care providers too).
I hope you all follow Amanda’s lead this week and follow your dreams. I’m thankful we live in a free country where dreams come true. Thank you to our Veterans for that.
Happy Week, Nina
P.S. Here is Amanda Wade’s contact info at The Violet Room Spa www.violetroomspa.com, amanda@violetroomspa.com, 479-310-5310
