Usually, I’m all about no-pain, no-gain. I get it: Sometimes you have to suffer a little and earn the reward. Usually… but when it comes to facials, I really just want it to be pleasant.
Yes, I understand extractions are sometimes necessary to get out all the bad stuff. And acid peels are sometimes needed even if your skin might get all red and blotchy and sun-sensitive. And even the intense scrutiny on all my skin’s flaws serves a purpose.
But, what can I say? I have sensitive skin, a sensitive face and am just plain sensitive.
So it was with some apprehension that I checked out the Facialworks HydraFacial service ($150), which is said to work for all skin types and have no downtime. The process – including cleansing and exfoliation, acid peel, extractions, and hydration – is all done through the same machine. I relayed to esthetician and Facialworks owner Meghan Mae Ellis my concerns about acid peels, to which she replied she could start at a lower level for the peel. Once we got started it became clear that the peel wasn’t aggravating my skin and even the extractions were not painful. The suction tool attached to the HydraFacial machine clearly extracted the unsightly blackheads and dirt from my skin, depositing them into an attached cylindrical container. But I wasn’t the least bit uncomfortable. Overall, the 30-minute facial was quick, painless and very effective. My skin kept a healthy glow and didn’t appear irritated. It’s a facial I would definitely recommend for anyone with skin sensitivities (though make sure to let your esthetician know) looking for a good skin maintenance program.
