First ever facial: what do I need to know?

[FourEyesGood]

I’m mid-forties and for the first time, I’ve booked to go for a facial (I can’t remember what prompted me to want a facial but I’d booked and pair for now, so I might as well go). It’s tomorrow afternoon.

Is there anything I need to know? Should I do anything beforehand?

Should I go without any make-up on? I usually wear tinted moisturiser with SPF and would rather wear it all morning and remove it at the appointment, but could forgo it if necessary.

AI has various bits (bots!) of advice, but I’d rather hear from real people who’ve been for a facial and can offer real advice. Thanks!

@FourEyesGood you don't need to do anything as they'll remove your makeup as part of the facial; just lie back and enjoy!!
I love a good facial. X

Just enjoy it@FourEyesGood. I treat myself to one 4 times a year.
I have been known to nod off as it's so relaxing.

Ah, that’s great to know. Thank you both!

Where I go they massage your neck and shoulders too so you take your top off and just have a towel on the top half. Yours might be face only but don't be alarmed if you're asked to take your top half off. They also offer head massage with oils so only do that if you aren't going anywhere after.

Crikey! I’m glad you mentioned that. Thanks!

Haha I know, I was confused the first time but it's so relaxing, enjoy!

Nice! What kind of facial?

Mine includes neck and shoulder massage too.
Also a hand and arm massage or head massage while a face mask takes effect.

I love a body/back massage, have had eye lash tinting in the past and have no sensory issues with being touched etc, but personally don't enjoy a facial. Especially since covid, I don't enjoy someone leaning over and breathing into my face.

I've tried them from different places and in various countries. Sometimes they clean your face with a cleaning liquid and cotton pads and in my head, I just want to wash it with water! They then massage in creams/oils and I think 'what is the point? I can do this myself?' I appreciate they might use specific creams/oils or a special upwards massage movement, but its just not to me.

I love a facial. My face looks lovely afterwards but more than that, it makes me feel renewed and rested. Enjoy every second!

Facials vary widely. I’d make sure (if I was at the booking stage) that they don’t piss off and leave you with a masque on. No decent beautician should leave the room. They should use this time for massage.

I strip off my top half and lie under a towel for mine as the products go onto your whole chest area.

My facialist makes the room extremely relaxing - a heated bed, dimmed lights, candles and music.

I love a facial, so enjoy.

Some places try to sell you products after.

Unless you want to buy them at full price (which is nice of you've got the money btw!) the solution is to smile confidently, and ask for them to note them down so you can think it over / put on your birthday list etc.

Hate up selling, but never now stress about it as I have my answer prepared!