Some things in life will come and go – like fad diets and mortal enemies – but you only get one face, so it’s important to take care of it. There are so many products and services out there it can be hard to know where to begin, and often the biggest hurdle for a skincare novice is trying to decipher the extensive list of facials available at any spa or clinic. If that's you, try our complete guide to facials to help you make your next big skincare decision.

What are you trying to achieve from your facial?

The first thing is to figure out what you want to achieve, and identify any worrying skin issues such as redness or breakouts. Are you too dry, too oily, or a little from Column A and a little from Column B.

How many facial treatments will you need?

Most spas and clinics offer an initial consultation before any treatment, so take the opportunity to speak to a professionally trained therapist to understand what can or can’t be treated, decide the best course of action, and find out how many treatments you’ll need before you’re expected to see results.

In general, the number of treatments required depends on individual circumstances. For example, chronic breakouts may require weekly visits, while low-maintenance skin could benefit from monthly pampering. Keep in mind that the rosiness that follows a facial can last for up to two hours, so it’s best not to book one in before a date.

How can you get the most from your facial?

To get the most out of each facial it’s vital you care for your skin in-between visits with products designed to prolong the results. The Clarins Body and Beauty range includes treatments to cleanse, firm and moisturise the skin, while a facial cleansing brush is the ideal way to scrub off layers of makeup, dirt and grime without damaging the epidermis.

Which facial will work for me?

• Classic Facial
  

  What it involves: Deep cleansing, extractions, and a head and neck massage
  What it treats: Clogged pores and dry skin
  Where to try it: Try Smooth Curves in Melbourne, Jodie Anderson Beauty in Perth or The Beauty College in Canberra
  FYI: Ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation
  
  

• Microdermabrasion Facial
  

  What it involves: A pressured jet uses micronised crystals to buff away layers of dead skin, revealing an underlying layer of cells with higher levels of collagen and elastin to promote a more youthful appearance
  What it treats: Fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, light acne scarring and pigmentation
  Where to try it: Try Millenium Clinic in Sydney, Bliss Makeup & Tan in Brisbane or Feel Good Laser & Skin Clinic in Melbourne
  FYI: Have a chat with your therapist to ensure they can adjust to a level to suit your skin type
  
  

• LED Facial

  What it involves: Skin is exposed to LED wavelengths to boost circulation and collagen production
  What it treats: Inflammation, acne and redness
  Where to try it: Try @ The Salon in Brisbane, Heavenly Beauty & Day Spa in Sydney or Clara Beauty in Perth
  FYI: Some results may be seen after single treatments, but up to three sessions may be needed if you have severe breakouts
  
  

• Hydrating Facial
  

  What it involves: An intense moisturising mask that penetrates the deep layers of the skin and is usually rich in humectant to prevent loss of moisture
  What it treats: Dryness and flakiness
  Where to try it: Try Serenity Clinic in Sydney, Youneek Beauty Lounge on the Gold Coast or Indulge Skin & Beauty in Adelaide
  FYI: If your at-home moisturising products just aren’t cutting it anymore, combine them with this facial for ultra-hydration
  
  

• Anti-Ageing Facial
  

  What it involves: Cleansing, resurfacing (usually in the form of microdermabrasion), brightening (acid peel), and hydrating
  What it treats: Fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, age spots, pigmentation and redness
  Where to try it: Try Caci Clinic in Melbourne, Boudoir Lash & Beauty in Sydney or Ella Bache in Perth
  FYI: Book at least one week before a big event as the skin can flake and peel depending on the strength of the treatment. Be sure to wear SPF sunscreen every day as skin is prone to becoming especially photosensitive post-treatment

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