How Frequently Should You Get a Facial? WI Skincare Experts Weigh In

Facials are a significant component of the beauty industry, contributing to the skincare services that make up almost 40 percent of the global medical spa industry. They're one of the top-advertised services at many clinics. And with the rise in virtual meetings, many are focusing on improving the appearance of their teeth, skin, and hair.

But do facials really make a difference? And if so, when is the best time of year to invest in a facial? We turn to the experts at A Better Body for answers.

Putting Your Best Face Forward

Facials are essentially non-invasive treatments that focus on cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing your skin, which can also include other elements that your aesthetician determines would be helpful to your individual skin type and concerns.

Many skin care experts recommend getting a facial every four to six weeks, which lines up with your skin's natural replacement cycle. Regular maintenance is regarded as more effective than intermittent interventions. However, this frequency and cost can be unrealistic for many.

Pencil it In

Many experts say that spring and fall - the transitional seasons - are the best times for facials. Spring facials can help correct skin that's dry and sallow from winter abuse. Our skin tends to suffer in winter, frequently exposed to drastic changes between harsh outdoor conditions and arid indoor air dried by artificial heating.

Likewise, fall facials can help correct for the excesses of summer. During the hot months, the skin is exposed to an increased amount of harmful ultraviolet rays, creating burns and hyperpigmentation. Additionally, increased sweat tends to clog pores, leading to red patches, breakouts, and acne. Treatments at this time of year help restore sun damage, address uneven pigmentation, and heal acne scarring from summer blemishes. They also help reset and refresh skin before winter weather arrives.

Warning Signs

While transitional seasons are optimal when it comes to facials, they can help improve your appearance at any time of year. No two faces, or reactions to environmental conditions, are the same. You may be overdue for a facial if:

1. Your skin has a dry, dull appearance - this means you likely have dead skin creating a matte appearance that needs professional sloughing
2. You notice brown spots or other discolorations - sun spots and age spots have likely developed and need to be evened out
3. Fine lines and wrinkles are starting to appear - aging skin loses its elasticity and needs attention to trigger the skin rebuilding process
4. Acne and blackheads are starting to grow - you have clogged pores that need cleaning
5. You have visible scars - popped pimples, sun damage, and other issues aren't healing well, and the outer layer of your skin needs to be removed.

Don't ignore these warning signs - get them treated early on to avoid more frequent treatments down the road. Your body's largest organ - your skin - will thank you.