Most women will not hesitate to spend money on the things that can help them look and feel good. According to research, the average South African woman spends around R700 to R800 on makeup. But while picking the right foundation and lipstick color is a must, having a good skincare routine is also essential to maintain the health and beauty of one’s skin. This is why some have started following an intensive skincare regimen that involves no less than 10 steps. Some have even gone the extra mile and are doing at-home versions of professional treatments like micro-needling.
Doing home facials or treatments may be a good way to save money, but do these treatments work? And more importantly, are they safe? Here’s the truth about home facials.
Some home treatments only give temporary results
There are so many reasons why facials can be beneficial for your skin. Apart from keeping your facial skin clear and smooth, a good facial can also help to firm and tighten skin to give it a younger look. However, some home treatments, particularly those that call for natural ingredients, only yield temporary results. For instance, using an egg white mask may shrink your pores, but the effect only lasts for about an hour or two. Meanwhile, a professional facial may give better results and the skin-transforming effects last longer.
Some procedures should be left in the hands of professionals
It takes diligence to follow a 10-step Korean skincare routine, but anyone can do it safely as long as you use the right products for your skin type. However, there are some procedures that should be left in the hands of professionals. For instance, a dermatologist or a licensed aesthetician can perform extractions to get rid of your pimples or whiteheads, but you should never attempt to do them yourself. Picking or pricking your pimples can result in scarring, which is not what you want if you’re aiming to have a smooth and clear complexion. Instead of pricking your pimples, use an over-the-counter anti-acne gel or ointment to minimise redness and swelling.
Treatments you can do at home
For optimal skin health, take the time to get a professional facial at least once a month. But for daily maintenance, there are some treatments that you can certainly perform at home. Apart from your regular skincare routine, you can apply clay masks to unclog your pores or tighten your skin. You can also do facial massages to encourage blood circulation and give your face a healthy glow. You can also get rid of facial hair by waxing or tweezing unwanted hair, but if you’re not confident with your waxing skills, then it may be better to have a professional perform the procedure.
At-home treatments can definitely help to give you a smooth and clear complexion, but some procedures may be better left in the hands of professionals. When in doubt, consult an expert on the facial treatments that you can do at home and make sure to get a professional facial every month for better skin.
Written by: Jen Salmon