The Home Spa Experience: A Guide To Diy Facials

Treating yourself to a spa-quality facial at home is easier than you think. Start by creating a relaxing atmosphere: light some candles, put on a calming playlist, and run a hot bath with epsom salt. Then, it's time to cleanse your skin. Use an oil-based cleanser first, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining dirt or makeup. Next, it's time to exfoliate. You can use a physical exfoliator, like a scrub, or a chemical exfoliator, which tends to be more gentle. After exfoliating, apply a face mask to address your specific skin concerns, such as breakouts, dryness, or sensitivity. While the mask works its magic, you can enhance the experience by using a facial steamer or simply hovering your face over a bowl of hot water to open up your pores. Finally, lock in moisture with a hydrating serum and moisturizer, and give yourself a facial massage to boost blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Cleanse your skin

Cleansing your skin is the first step in any skincare routine, so it's important to do it properly when giving yourself an at-home facial. Start by removing any makeup with a makeup-removing balm or an oil-based cleanser. This will get rid of any makeup, dirt, and impurities on your skin.

Next, follow up with a water-based or foam/gel cleanser to ensure your skin is thoroughly cleaned. You can also use a cleansing device, which uses vibrations and warming technology for a deeper clean. Make sure the water is warm, not hot or cold, and always be gentle with your skin – avoid tugging or pulling.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can try double cleansing, which is a great way to ensure your skin is deeply cleansed. Double cleansing involves using an oil-based cleanser first, followed by a water-based or foam/gel cleanser. This method is especially effective at removing all traces of makeup, dirt, and impurities, leaving your skin truly clean and ready for the rest of your at-home facial.

It's also important to note that you should avoid using hot or cold water when cleansing your face, as this can be too harsh for your skin. Always opt for warm water, which will open up your pores and prepare your skin for the rest of the facial treatment.

After cleansing, your skin should feel fresh and clean, providing the perfect base for the rest of your at-home spa experience.

Exfoliate to smooth and brighten

Exfoliation is a crucial step in achieving smooth and bright skin. It involves removing the outer layer of dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother and clearer complexion that reflects light and appears luminous. There are two main types of exfoliation: mechanical and chemical. Mechanical exfoliation uses physical exfoliants like washcloths, face scrubs, or cleansing brushes to cleanse the skin. Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, employs face peels, cleansers, toners, masks, and leave-on skincare products containing acids or enzymes to loosen and dislodge dead skin cells.

When it comes to exfoliating at home, it's important to choose the right type of exfoliation for your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a physical exfoliant to improve texture and roughness without causing inflammation. Oily skin can benefit from chemical exfoliants with BHAs to minimize breakouts and clogged pores. For mature skin, chemical exfoliants with AHAs are ideal for boosting radiance, evening out skin tone, and smoothing wrinkles. Combination skin types can use both physical and chemical exfoliants but should start sparingly to gauge their skin's tolerance.

It's important to be gentle when exfoliating to avoid irritation and micro-tears in the skin. Apply light pressure in circular motions, avoiding the delicate eye area. Additionally, don't over-exfoliate, as it can lead to redness, sensitivity, and irritation. Start with once or twice a week and adjust as needed. Always follow up with a moisturiser to lock in hydration.

For a more natural approach, consider using ingredients like honey, yogurt, papaya, oatmeal, sugar, lemon juice, or coffee. These "natural exfoliators" provide just enough abrasion or acidity to remove dead skin cells without the need for additional chemicals. However, be cautious when using certain natural ingredients, as some may be too abrasive for facial skin.

Create a relaxing atmosphere

Creating a relaxing atmosphere is an essential part of the spa experience. Here are some tips to help you create a tranquil and serene environment for your at-home face spa:

Lighting and Scents

• Opt for low lighting to create a tranquil ambiance. You can use lamp lights, candles, or dim the lights to set the mood.
• Choose soft, soothing colours for your surroundings, such as whites, beiges, blues, and greens. These colours create a calm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Fill the room with pleasant fragrances. You can use scented candles, essential oils, or fresh scents from an open window. Fragrances like jasmine, lavender, sage, vanilla, or eucalyptus are known for their calming properties.

Sounds

• Play soothing music in the background. Instrumental music, classical music, or natural sounds can help you relax and clear your mind. Avoid music with lyrics or driving rhythms.
• If you prefer silence, ensure the environment is quiet and peaceful, free from any distracting noises or loud interruptions.

Comfort and Cleanliness

• Wear comfortable clothing, such as soft pyjamas, a plush robe, or cosy slippers.
• Keep your space clean and tidy. A messy environment can be distracting and hinder your ability to relax. Ensure there is minimal clutter, and pay attention to details like washing sheets and towels, and removing any unpleasant odours.
• Soaking in an Epsom salt bath is a great way to relax and unwind. It can help with muscle relaxation and stress relief.

Additional Tips

• Bring nature into your space. Decorate with plants, natural textures like wood, or artwork featuring natural scenes.
• Use inspirational quotes or verses. Displaying positive messages can help set a relaxing tone and inspire a sense of peace.
• Prepare healthy snacks and drinks. Nourish your body with herbal tea, smoothies, or healthy snacks to fuel your relaxation and enhance your overall well-being.

By incorporating these elements, you can create a relaxing atmosphere that engages your senses and promotes a peaceful and rejuvenating experience for your at-home face spa.

Apply a face mask

Once you've cleansed and exfoliated your skin, it's time to apply a face mask.

First, decide which type of face mask you want to use. This will depend on your skin type and what you want to achieve from your at-home facial. For example, if your skin is feeling dry, you might want to opt for a hydrating mask. If you have acne, you might want to use a clay mask to help clear your pores. You can also make your own face mask using ingredients from your kitchen. For example, yoghurt is a great natural exfoliant, while honey is brilliant at fighting spot-causing bacteria.

Once you've chosen your mask, it's time to apply it. If you're using a store-bought mask, follow the instructions on the packet. If you're using a DIY mask, simply apply it to your face with your fingers or a brush. Be sure to avoid the delicate eye area.

Leave the mask on for the recommended amount of time, which is usually around 15-20 minutes. If you're using a DIY mask, be sure to do a patch test first to ensure you don't have any adverse reactions.

Finally, remove the mask with a warm, damp cloth, softly wiping everything off in small motions without dragging your skin. Follow with a moisturiser to lock in hydration.

Finish with a moisturiser

Moisturising is the final step of your at-home facial. Once you've removed your face mask, it's time to lock in all that hydration with a moisturiser. Celebrity esthetician and founder of Olga Lorencin Skincare, Olga Lorencin, recommends mixing a few drops of your favourite serum into your moisturiser for an extra boost.

For an extra touch of luxury, you can use a facial massage tool, like a jade roller or gua sha, to help de-puff your face. This will also help with skin rejuvenation, collagen promotion, and cell turnover. Ling Chan, founder of Ling Skincare and Spa, says that facial massage is "very healthy for your facial muscle... It's like a gym for your skin."

When choosing a moisturiser, opt for one that is soothing and nourishing. Avoid anything with acids or retinols, as these can cause dryness or irritation after exfoliation. Instead, look for moisturisers that contain antioxidants and nourishing oils.

Some recommended moisturisers include:

• Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer
• Clinique Smart Custom-Repair Serum
• Philosophy Anti-Wrinkle Miracle Worker Line-Correcting Overnight Cream
• No7 Protect and Perfect Advanced Intense Facial Serum

Now, gently dab on some eye cream to give the delicate skin around your eyes some love, and you're done!

Frequently asked questions