A facial deep cleanses your pores, removes dead skin cells, and delivers targeted treatments that your daily skincare routine cannot achieve on its own. During a professional facial, a trained skincare specialist cleanses, exfoliates, extracts impurities, and applies customized serums and masks based on your specific skin type and concerns. The result is skin that looks clearer, feels smoother, and has a healthy, hydrated glow.
While washing your face at home removes surface dirt and makeup, a facial works at a deeper level. It addresses buildup inside your pores, stimulates circulation, and allows treatment products to penetrate more effectively. Whether you want to manage breakouts, reduce signs of aging, or simply maintain healthy skin, facials provide professional level care that supports your skin health over time.
What Happens During a Professional Facial
A facial is more than just someone washing your face. Each step serves a specific purpose, and the combination of these steps is what makes professional facials so effective.
Cleansing starts the treatment by removing makeup, oil, dirt, and environmental pollutants from the surface of your skin. This prepares your skin for the deeper work that follows.
Skin analysis allows your provider to examine your skin closely, often with magnification, to identify your specific concerns. This step determines which products and techniques will be used during your treatment.
Exfoliation removes the layer of dead skin cells that accumulates on the surface. This can be done with gentle scrubs, enzymes, or chemical exfoliants depending on your skin type. Removing this buildup reveals fresher skin underneath and allows products to absorb better.
Steam is often used to soften the skin and open pores, making extractions easier and more comfortable. The warmth also increases circulation and helps your skin absorb treatment products.
Extractions clear clogged pores, removing blackheads and whiteheads that can lead to breakouts if left untreated. When performed by a trained professional, extractions are safer and more effective than attempting to clear pores at home.
Treatment masks and serums are selected based on your skin concerns. Hydrating masks restore moisture, clay masks absorb excess oil, and specialized serums target issues like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or inflammation.
Moisturizer and sun protection finish the treatment, locking in hydration and protecting your freshly treated skin.
The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the type of facial and any additional treatments included.
Benefits You Cannot Get From At Home Skincare
Even the best at home skincare routine has limitations. Professional facials provide benefits that go beyond what you can achieve on your own.
Deeper exfoliation removes more dead skin cells than daily cleansers or weekly scrubs. Professional grade exfoliants work at a level that over the counter products cannot match, revealing smoother and brighter skin.
Professional extractions clear pores safely. Attempting to squeeze blackheads or pimples at home often causes inflammation, spreads bacteria, and can lead to scarring. Trained providers use proper techniques and sterile tools to extract without damaging your skin.
Customized treatment means products are selected specifically for your skin. Your provider can adjust the facial based on what they observe during your skin analysis, addressing multiple concerns in a single session.
Increased circulation from facial massage and steam brings more oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells. This supports cell renewal and gives your complexion a healthy, natural glow.
Expert guidance helps you understand your skin better. After your facial, your provider can recommend products and routines to maintain your results at home.
At kalon Dermatology, facials provided by licensed and trained professionals help clear inflammatory acne and allow better penetration of any treatments or medications you may be using. This clinical approach means your facial does more than relax you. It actively improves your skin health.
What Can a Facial Treat?
Facials can address a wide range of skin concerns. The specific benefits depend on the type of facial and the products used, but common concerns that respond well to professional facial treatments include:
Acne and clogged pores improve with deep cleansing, extractions, and treatments that reduce bacteria and excess oil. Regular facials can help prevent breakouts by keeping pores clear.
Dullness and uneven texture respond to exfoliation. Removing the buildup of dead cells reveals the smoother, brighter skin underneath.
Fine lines and early signs of aging can be addressed with facials that stimulate collagen production and deliver anti-aging ingredients like peptides and antioxidants.
Hyperpigmentation and dark spots may fade with facials that include brightening ingredients like vitamin C or gentle chemical exfoliants that encourage cell turnover.
Dry or dehydrated skin benefits from hydrating facials that restore moisture and repair the skin barrier.
Oily skin can be balanced with facials designed to control sebum production and minimize the appearance of pores.
If you have specific skin concerns, discussing them with your provider before your facial ensures the treatment is customized to give you the best results.
Dermatology Facials vs. Spa Facials: Why the Difference Matters
Not all facials are the same. Where you get your facial and who performs it can significantly affect your results.
Spa facials focus primarily on relaxation and general skin maintenance. They feel good and can provide temporary improvements in skin texture and hydration. However, spa aestheticians typically work with cosmetic grade products and may not have training in treating medical skin conditions.
Dermatology facials are performed or supervised by medical professionals who understand skin at a clinical level. At kalon Dermatology, every facial treatment is guided by dermatology expertise and experience. Providers use medical grade products and technologies that are proven to improve skin health.
The difference becomes especially important if you have active skin conditions like acne, rosacea, or hyperpigmentation. A dermatology practice can customize your facial to work alongside any medical treatments you may be using. If your provider identifies a concern that needs more than a facial, such as a skin condition requiring prescription treatment, you are already in a practice where that care is available.
kalon Dermatology combines a clinical approach with a spa-like experience. You get the relaxation and pampering of a traditional facial with the peace of mind that your skin is in medically trained hands.
What to Expect After Your Facial
Immediately after a facial, your skin will likely look refreshed, hydrated, and glowing. Some people notice a slight pink flush from increased circulation, which typically fades within a few hours.
Depending on the type of facial you receive, you may experience:
Mild sensitivity for a day or two, especially if your facial included extractions or exfoliation. Avoid harsh products and excessive sun exposure during this time.
Temporary breakouts can occur as your skin purges impurities that were trapped beneath the surface. This is normal, especially after your first facial or if you have congested skin. Purging usually resolves within a week or two and becomes less common with regular facial treatments.
Improved product absorption means your at home skincare will work more effectively after a facial. This is a good time to use your serums and moisturizers since they can penetrate better without a barrier of dead skin cells.
Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions based on the treatment you received. Following these recommendations helps you maintain your results and avoid any irritation.
Professional Facials at kalon Dermatology
At kalon Dermatology, facial treatments are personalized for adult men and women of all skin types who want professional solutions for healthier, clearer, and more youthful looking skin. Whether you are dealing with fine lines, breakouts, or dullness, the team creates a customized treatment plan based on your skin’s condition and your personal goals.
Every facial starts with a comprehensive skin evaluation and consultation. Your provider will assess your skin, discuss your concerns, and design a facial plan that targets your specific needs. From gentle exfoliating procedures to advanced chemical peels, each treatment is customized to deliver results.
The team at kalon Dermatology includes board-certified dermatologists and licensed skincare specialists with extensive experience in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. David Biro is a board-certified dermatologist who received his MD from Columbia University and PhD from Oxford University, and has been named one of New York’s Top Doctors. Dr. Michael Gladstein is a board-certified dermatologist and Castle Connolly Top Doctor with nearly three decades of experience. The practice also includes experienced physician assistants and nurse practitioners with specialized dermatology training.
With over 60 years of combined experience, the kalon Dermatology team provides safe, effective care with exceptional results. Patients consistently highlight the thorough, unhurried consultations and personalized recommendations in their reviews.
kalon Dermatology has two convenient locations:
Brooklyn (Sheepshead Bay): 2792 Ocean Ave, 2nd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11229
Staten Island (West Brighton): 796 Castleton Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310
To schedule your facial consultation, call (833) 635-2566 or book online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a facial take?
Most facials take between 30 and 60 minutes. Some advanced treatments may take longer. Your provider will let you know what to expect when you schedule your appointment.
How often should I get a facial?
Most people benefit from facials every 4 to 6 weeks, which aligns with the skin’s natural cell turnover cycle. Your provider can recommend a schedule based on your specific skin type and concerns.
Will a facial make me break out?
Some people experience temporary breakouts after a facial as the skin purges impurities. This is normal and usually resolves within a week or two. Regular facials reduce the likelihood of purging over time.
Can I wear makeup after a facial?
It is best to let your skin breathe for at least a few hours after a facial. Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions based on your treatment.
Are facials worth it?
Yes. Professional facials provide deeper cleansing, customized treatment, and expert guidance that you cannot replicate at home. Regular facials support long term skin health and help you address concerns before they become more difficult to treat.
What is the difference between a facial and a chemical peel?
A standard facial focuses on cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration. A chemical peel uses professional strength acids to remove damaged outer layers of skin for more intensive resurfacing. kalon Dermatology offers both services and can recommend which is right for your skin.
Disclaimer
Medically reviewed by Danny Bronshtein, NP.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.