Getting a routine facial should be part of everyone’s custom skin care management plan, but determining how often depends on a variety of factors.

You just experienced an hour of pampering bliss. Highlights included the warm steam, the hydrating masque, and a gentle massage. Now you’re walking out feeling good about having carved out some time focusing on you, and there is no denying that your face is glowing. You may be excited to book your next appointment, but you need to time it just right. Unfortunately, there isn't a perfect cycle that everyone should follow. That’s because the period of time between facials is determined by skin type, age, your environment, and what you hope to achieve. Here are a few tips to help you understand how often you should get a facial.

The General Recommendation

Skin care specialists recommend that people have a professional facial about every three to four weeks. That’s how long it takes your skin to move through the full life cycle of skin cell growth and exfoliation. A facial helps that process along. The treatment will keep your skin clean, clear, and toned. Having one every three to four weeks helps you maintain that beautiful glow all month long.

Acne Prone Skin and Facials

For those who are experiencing frequent breakouts or tend to have oilier skin, having a facial more often is recommended during acne flares. Come in every two weeks to clear your skin and bring it to a healthier place. As the skin calms down and the acne goes away, the period of time between facials can be stretched back out.

Infrequent Facials

Although you may have the best of intentions to care for your skin according to the recommended guidelines, sometimes life (and your budget!) gets in the way. If you are unable to come in for a facial every three to four weeks, aim to come in at least once a season. The humidity and sun in the warmer months can lead to breakouts or sun damage, and the cold air of the winter months can dry your skin out. Seeing a skin care specialist at least four times a year will help will help protect you from seasonal exposure and arm your skin take on the elements.

Frequent Facials

As beneficial and enjoyable as a facial can be, it is possible for your skin to be negatively affected by too much of a good thing. Unless you are following guidelines that are in place to treat a specific issue your skin is experiencing, seeing your esthetician more often than every two to three weeks can have the opposite effect on your skin.

Creating a healthy skin care routine can be done during your next facial in Boston. An esthetician is a licensed professional with the training and experience to understand the specific needs of your skin. In order to get the most out of every treatment, discuss with your esthetician an ideal facial schedule and what beauty regimen to follow at home to maintain your skin in-between appointments.