When you head to a day spa or a beauty salon for a pampering, there are often a lot of facials on offer. The choice can be bewildering.

What is the difference between microdermabrasion and a chemical peel? What’s the best facial for dry skin? What about acne? We look at all the different types of facials available, to help you choose what’s right for your skin type.

After massage, a facial is the most popular way to spend time at a day spa. We all look (and feel) better when our skin glows with natural radiance and it’s also a great way to relax. While there are different options to choose from, every facial should begin with a consultation so the beautician can understand any lifestyle factors that may contribute to your skin’s needs. All facials will begin with cleansing, after which a skin analysis will ensure the most appropriate products are used.

Regular facial

This routine is the most cost effective option. The process begins with cleansing, followed by warm vapour to help remove impurities; the skin is then exfoliated with a scrub, and finally moisturised. This relaxing routine is most beneficial to those with normal skin, and is recommended fortnightly.

Acne reduction facial

If you have oily skin and suffer from acne, this procedure is for you. The process begins with deep cleansing, followed by enzyme or glycolic acid exfoliation. A warm vapour mist opens the pores, then manual extraction is used to treat troublesome spots, and finally a skin calming antibacterial masque is applied. While it is recommended that you undergo these treatments regularly, you should consult your dermatologist first to ensure that the products won’t irritate your skin.

Antioxidant facial

Antioxidants can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun and pollution by slowing down the damaging effects of free radicals on skin cells. Antioxidants also encourage cell and tissue growth, which in skincare helps to fight fine lines and wrinkles. The creams used in an antioxidant facial are enriched with vitamin A, C and E, as well as beta-carotene. This facial deeply cleanses the pores and removes impurities, while the antioxidants in the creams and lotions help combat the effects of aging.

Collagen facial

Collagen facials are an anti-aging strategy used to help the skin regain its natural suppleness. Collagen, which is a protein produced by the skin to keep it tight and supple, breaks down as we age, leading to wrinkles. In this facial the skin is initially cleansed, followed by a multi-phased exfoliation, warm vapour, deep pore cleansing and lymphatic drainage massage. Then a collagen mask is applied to the skin. After about 30 minutes, the mask is washed off, leaving bright, rejuvenated skin.

Microdermabrasion

One of the best ways to remove dead skin cells, microdermabrasion involves blasting a stream of micro-particles through a vacuum onto the skin. This exfoliating process is a powerful way to remove all dead cells which are otherwise hard to remove. Although the skin may appear red for a short while, the process is actually gentle, and the facial is suitable for those with sensitive as well as normal skin.

Chemical peel

Glycolic or Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) is a naturally occurring acid that has excellent anti-aging and spot-removal properties. When applied, the acid can penetrate into the dead skin cells and release the glue that holds them together, causing the skin to peel off, and thus encouraging it to regenerate. Make sure that your treatment is administered by a trained professional as high quantities of acid are being used and follow the post-treatment instructions, as the skin can be quite sensitive afterwards.

With more than 18,000 beauty salons listed around Australia, Yellow Pages can help you find the perfect day spa experience right in your neighbourhood.