Understanding and using facial products and equipment

Understanding Facial Products

Cleansers:

Used to remove make-up, dirt, oil and other types of pollutants from the skin
Come in various forms such as gels, creams, foams, or oils
Choosing the right cleanser is dependent on the client’s skin type

Toners:

Help to balance the pH of the skin after cleansing
Can be used to remove any leftovers from cleansing
Refreshes the skin and prepares it for further treatment

Exfoliators:

Used to remove dead skin cells on the surface of the skin
Promotes quicker cell turnover, revealing younger and healthier skin cells
Chemical and physical are the two types of exfoliators, each suitable for different skin types

Moisturisers:

Hydrate and soften the skin, contributing to its plump and glowing appearance
Many moisturisers contain active ingredients that help to repair and protect the skin
Good for all skin types, but the type of moisturiser (oil-based, water-based etc.) depends on the client’s skin type and the time of year

Serums:

More lightweight and faster-absorbing than moisturisers
Concentrated with active ingredients that address specific concerns like ageing, dark spots, or dehydration
Best applied after cleansing and toning, but before moisturising

Facemasks:

Provide an intensive burst of nourishing and therapeutic skin care ingredients in a short amount of time
Can address a variety of skin concerns depending on the type of mask used (sheet, clay, peel off etc.)
Typically recommended to be used once or twice a week

Understanding Facial Equipment

Steamer:

Used to open up the pores to aid in exfoliation and deep cleansing of the skin
Soothes and hydrates the skin and can help ease congestion

Blackhead Extractor:

A small loop-shaped tool used to gently push out blackheads and unclog pores
Should only be used after the skin is properly prepped with steam or warm water to avoid discomfort and potential scarring

Facial Brush:

Used to gently exfoliate and cleanse the skin in a more efficient way than using hands alone
Comes in a variety of types including manual and electric brushes

Microcurrent Machines:

Used to stimulate facial muscles, giving the effect of a non-surgical facelift
Promotes collagen production, improving skin’s elasticity and reducing lines and wrinkles

LED Light Therapy Devices:

Different colours are used to target different issues such as redness (red light), acne-causing bacteria (blue light), and collagen production (amber light)
A painless, non-invasive way to treat a variety of skin concerns

Remember, while using these products and tools can provide great benefits to the skin, it’s important to take into account the client’s individual skin type and specific concerns. Always test a patch of skin when introducing new treatments or products to prevent potential allergic reactions or sensitivity.