the skin&tonic blog
The Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum Is Here: A Smarter Way to Resurface Your Skin.
Okay, the name is bold: The Laser Serum by Lenox and Sixteenth. And no, it's not trying to replace an in-studio laser treatment. But, it is designed to give you smoother, brighter, more refined skin in a way that's controlled, intelligent, and barrier-conscious. Which is exactly why we brought it into Skin & Tonic. Because when it comes to exfoliation, we don't do reckless. We do strategic. Want to try it for yourself? Shop the Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum What the Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum Actually Is The Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum is a triple-acid concentrate designed to resurface, smooth, and brighten, without tipping your skin into irritation. It works because of its intelligent acid blend. Rather than relying on one aggressive exfoliant, it combines multiple acids that work at different levels of the skin. Here's what makes it special: Glycolic Acid: A gold-standard AHA that exfoliates the surface of the skin, improving texture and radiance. It helps dissolve dead skin buildup so everything looks smoother and more reflective. Lactic Acid: A gentler AHA that exfoliates and hydrates simultaneously. This helps maintain balance while still encouraging cell turnover, which is huge for preventing that tight, stripped feeling of lower quality exfoliants. Salicylic Acid: A BHA that penetrates deep into pores, making this serum especially helpful for congestion, breakouts, and uneven texture. Together, these three acids create multi-level exfoliation: surface smoothing, pore refinement, tone brightening, and breakout support. It's controlled resurfacing, not chaos. Who Is the Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum For? This serum is ideal for anyone dealing with: Acne-prone skin Congestion and clogged pores Uneven texture Dullness Early signs of aging Pigmentation concerns If you're already investing in professional treatments at Skin & Tonic, the Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum is the kind of at-home support that genuinely enhances those results between appointments. It's especially great for clients who want smoother, clearer skin without needing aggressive treatments. That said, like all exfoliating products, proper use and proper pairing matter. This isn't something you layer with five other actives because TikTok said so. We’ll help you work it into your routine strategically. Why We're Excited About It at Skin & Tonic Here's the thing: we're careful with acids. Because when exfoliation is overdone, we see the consequences in our treatment room. Compromised barriers. Persistent redness. Breakouts that won't heal. Pigmentation that worsens instead of fades. What we love about Lenox and Sixteenth is that even when they formulate something powerful, they do it with balance in mind. The Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum is potent, but it's not reckless. And that fits perfectly into the Skin & Tonic philosophy: strengthen the skin, resurface strategically, and never sacrifice the barrier for a quick glow. Full Size and Travel Size, Because Results Love Consistency The Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum comes in both full size and travel size, and we love that. When you find a resurfacing product that works for your skin, the last thing you want is to interrupt your progress every time you travel. Consistency with exfoliation is everything so, instead of skipping it for weeks, focus on steady, intentional use for the best results. Having a travel option means your routine stays intact wherever you are, and that's how results actually compound over time. Where the Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum Fits in Your Routine This serum works beautifully: In the evening On clean, dry skin Followed by a barrier-supportive moisturizer Don't forget daily SPF in the mornings (non-negotiable) As we head into warmer weather and higher UV levels in Raleigh, exfoliation needs to be balanced with protection. Resurfacing, plus SPF, plus antioxidants, equals smooth, bright, resilient skin. That's the long game we play at Skin & Tonic. The Bottom Line The Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum isn't about aggressive peeling. It's about refined texture, clearer pores, a brighter tone, and intelligent exfoliation that works with your skin rather than against it. We're excited to welcome another beautifully formulated product from Lenox and Sixteenth into the studio, especially one that bridges the gap between professional treatments and home care so seamlessly. If you're curious whether this triple-acid concentrate is right for your skin type, bring it up at your next appointment at Skin & Tonic. We'll guide you on frequency, layering, and how to keep your barrier strong while you resurface. Because smooth skin isn't about doing more things. It's about doing the right thing. Shop the Lenox and Sixteenth Laser Serum
Learn moreSkin Spring Refresh: What Your Skin Actually Needs Right Now
Spring is almost here! And, believe it or not, winter skin and spring skin are not the same. Pretending they are is where most routines go wrong. As we shift into warmer weather here in Raleigh, your skin is quietly adjusting behind the scenes. Humidity is changing. Sun exposure is increasing. Your barrier is recovering from months of cold air and indoor heat. And yet, most people are still using the exact same products they were using in January. At Skin & Tonic, we think of seasonal transitions as checkpoints. Not dramatic overhauls. No replacing every product. Just intentional recalibration. If you want your glow to actually build going into spring and summer (instead of unraveling), here’s what your skin really needs right now. 1. A Barrier Check (Not More Exfoliation) After winter, skin is often: Slightly dehydrated More reactive Holding onto dull surface buildup Quietly sensitized And, just like we feel the need to spring clean our homes, the instinct can be to scrub it off. But here’s the thing: most winter skin isn’t dull because it needs aggressive exfoliation. It’s dull because the barrier is compromised. Before increasing actives, acids, or peels, this is the time to: Rebalance hydration Support lipid levels Strengthen the skin before increasing exfoliation At Skin & Tonic Raleigh, we often adjust treatments this time of year to focus on strengthening first, resurfacing second. When the barrier is healthy, glow happens faster. 2. Lighter Hydration (Without Losing Moisture) Spring doesn’t mean stripping back moisture. It means adjusting texture. Heavier creams that felt comforting in January can start to feel occlusive in March. But switching to “lightweight everything” too quickly can lead to dehydration. Instead, try a gentler approach: Hydrating serums layered under lighter moisturizers Humectants paired with barrier-supportive ingredients Customizing based on how your skin feels week to week This is where professional guidance makes a difference. A customized approach allows us to transition routines strategically, not reactively. 3. Sun Exposure Is Increasing (Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It) The biggest mistake we see every March? Underestimating the sun. Time for some spring skincare math: longer days + outdoor walks + patio season = increased UV exposure. And that exposure directly affects: Hyperpigmentation Collagen breakdown Inflammation Post-facial results What does this mean? Daily SPF is non-negotiable. (More to come on this soon!) Not beach sunscreen. Not “when I remember”. We’re talking about daily protection. We recommend Solara Skincare. They are redefining mineral sunscreen with clean, zinc-based formulas that meet strict European standards and focus on clinically studied, plant-powered active ingredients. Rooted in a wellness-first philosophy, the brand blends science and superfoods to support healthier, more resilient skin without harsh chemicals. Spring is when pigmentation begins to deepen if protection isn’t consistent. This is the season to lock in the habit. 4. Professional Treatments Matter More During Seasonal Shifts Here’s something most people don’t realize: Skin transitions are when professional treatments are most impactful. Why? Because your skin is biologically adapting. Cell turnover shifts. Oil production may increase slightly. Pigment activity responds to light exposure. Supporting that shift with strategic treatments helps to: Prevent congestion before summer Brighten before pigmentation sets in Strengthen before heat-induced sensitivity begins At Skin & Tonic, our approach to facials is fully customized. We’re not performing the same treatment on every face. We’re reading the skin in real time. That’s especially important during seasonal changes. 5. This Is Not the Season for Trend Chasing Spring always brings fresh trend cycles: More exfoliation “Glass skin” layering Viral masks Aggressive peels But skin thrives on consistency, not chaos. A seasonal refresh isn’t about adding five new steps. It’s not about throwing away everything you did over winter for all new products. It’s about refining what’s already working. This might mean: Adjusting exfoliation frequency Swapping one product texture Introducing a targeted brightening serum Scheduling consistent facials Small, strategic shifts outperform dramatic routine changes every time. What a “Spring Refresh” Actually Means at Skin & Tonic At Skin & Tonic, a refresh looks like this: Assessing your barrier Adjusting hydration levels Strategically resurfacing Reinforcing SPF habits Planning treatments through summer It’s not dramatic. It’s intentional. And intention is what creates long-term glow. If Your Skin Feels “Off” Right Now, That’s Normal You might notice: Slight congestion Dullness that won’t budge More sensitivity than usual Makeup sitting differently That doesn’t mean your routine is failing. It means your skin is transitioning. This is the perfect time to check in with your trusted skincare professional and discuss adjusting your treatment and home routine so your skin moves into spring balanced, bright, and strong. The Bottom Line Spring isn’t about starting over. It’s about recalibrating. Support your barrier. Adjust your hydration. Protect your progress. And let your treatments work with the season instead of against it. If you’re ready for a true skin reset (not a trend-based overhaul) book your seasonal refresh at Skin & Tonic Raleigh. Your summer glow starts now!
Learn moreMeet the Heavy Hitters: Our Go-To Biologique Recherche Masks
We love a product that feels amazing to use. But, we know that there is a big difference between products that just feel nice and products that actually change how your skin behaves. Biologique Recherche masks fall firmly into the second category. At Skin & Tonic, masks aren’t an afterthought or a finishing touch. They’re a strategic part of our facials, chosen with intention, applied with purpose, and customized based on what your skin needs in that exact moment. And when it comes to professional-grade masking, Biologique Recherche continues to set the standard. Why We Trust Biologique Recherche Masks We love Biologique Recherche for its clinical, results-driven approach to skincare. Their masks are formulated with high concentrations of active ingredients and minimal fillers, designed to nourish your skin without overwhelming it. What sets them apart is their focus on skin condition, not just skin type. Your skin can shift day to day based on stress, hormones, environment, and lifestyle — and these masks are designed to meet your skin where it is, not where it “should” be. That flexibility is exactly why they play such a key role in Skin & Tonic facials. So, what are our faves? It’s time to share a few of our go-to masks, what they do, and who they’re best for. Masque VIP O2 Best for: Dull, stressed, or city-exposed skin This newly reformulated mask is what we reach for when skin looks tired, flat, or congested. Masque VIP O2 is all about oxygenation and detoxification. Reformulated to focus on healing and hydrating your skin, this mask helps your skin recover from environmental stressors like pollution and daily buildup. It works by supporting oxygen delivery to the skin and improving overall brightness, making it a favorite for clients who feel like their glow has gone missing. The results? Think refreshed, clearer, and visibly more alive. Masque Vivant Best for: Acne-prone, congested, or imbalanced skin Masque Vivant is a cult favorite for a reason. This mask focuses on regulating oil production, refining pores, and restoring balance without stripping the skin. It’s especially effective for adult acne and combination skin that’s both congested and sensitive. When used professionally, it helps clarify the skin while still respecting the barrier, something that’s crucial for long-term skin health. CREME Masque Vernix Best for: Dry, depleted, or compromised skin barriers If your skin feels tight, reactive, or chronically dehydrated, CREME Masque Vernix is often the answer. Inspired by the protective coating found on newborn skin, this mask is deeply nourishing and barrier-repairing. This nourishing mask helps replenish lipids, strengthen the skin’s natural defenses, and restore comfort. We love using this mask when skin needs recovery, whether from over-exfoliation, seasonal changes, or general stress. How Our Estheticians Choose the Right Mask At Skin & Tonic, mask selection is never one-size-fits-all. Before anything is applied, your esthetician assesses how your skin is behaving that day, not just what products you use at home or what your skin “usually” does. We consider important factors such as: Hydration levels Inflammation or sensitivity Oil production and congestion Environmental and lifestyle factors This is why professional facials are so impactful. The right mask, applied at the right time, can completely change how your skin responds to treatment. Why Masking Is a Cornerstone of Skin & Tonic Facials Masks allow us to slow down, target specific concerns, and support your skin’s natural functions. They’re not about instant perfection, they’re about building healthier skin over time. Biologique Recherche masks help us do exactly that, which is why they remain a staple in our Raleigh facial studio. Experience It for Yourself Reading about Biologique Recherche masks is one thing, experiencing them in a customized facial is a whole other experience! If you’re ready to see how these formulas work when they’re chosen and applied by an expert, we’d love to welcome you into Skin & Tonic. And, if you love the products, you can take them home with you!
Learn moreWhy Face Masks Are the Most Underrated Step in Your Skincare Routine
Cleanser? Non-negotiable. Moisturizer? Obviously. But masks? Optional… or so it seems. Here’s the thing: when it comes to your skin, masks aren’t indulgent. They’re essential.
Learn moreLongevity Has Always Been Our Philosophy, and It’s the Future of Skincare
If you love skincare as much as we do at Skin & Tonic Raleigh, you’ve probably noticed one word popping up everywhere recently: longevity. While the term may feel new, the idea behind it isn’t. At least, not at Skin & Tonic. Let’s talk about what longevity really means in skincare, and why it’s more than just a moment for us.
Learn moreAre Facials Good for Your Skin? The Real Benefits, from 30 Years in the Treatment Room
Yes, facials are good for your skin. But probably not in the way the beauty industry usually sells them. Facials are often marketed as pampering: a treat you give yourself when you need to unwind. We'd never argue with a little well-earned relaxation. But, after nearly 30 years in Raleigh treating thousands of clients with different skin types, we'd say something stronger than "facials are relaxing". In fact, regular professional facials are one of the most practical, non-invasive things you can do for your skin's long-term health. The key word there is regular. One facial will leave you glowing. Consistent facials, over months and years, are what truly transform the quality of your skin. What are the benefits of a professional facial? A good facial isn't a checklist or standard procedure. It's a diagnosis, followed by targeted treatment. What your esthetician does in the treatment room, what products we use, and in what order is built around what your skin needs that specific day. Let's talk about what separates a professional treatment from your at home routine. It cleans in a way your daily routine can't. Daily cleansing keeps the surface clear, but congestion builds up in your pores regardless. Professional extractions, steam, and deep-cleansing products reach impurities at a level your cleanser isn't designed to touch. For oily, acne-prone, or city-exposed skin especially, that deep clear is the difference between skin that's doing its best and skin that's healthy and glowing. It makes everything else work better. Dead skin cell buildup doesn't just make your complexion look dull, it physically blocks your skincare products from absorbing properly. After a professional exfoliation, your at home serums and moisturizers penetrate further and work harder. Regular professional facials extend the value of your entire home routine. It gets circulation moving. The massage component of a facial goes beyond just relaxation. Its functional benefits include improved circulation, meaning more oxygen and nutrients reaching your skin cells, which translates directly to that post-facial glow. Over time, regular treatment keeps the skin looking alive and healthy rather than flat and tired. It addresses what's actually happening in your skin right now. Anti-aging, acne, hyperpigmentation, sensitivity, dryness, every concern has treatments designed specifically for it. But more than that, an experienced esthetician sees things you may not have noticed: early congestion, subtle dehydration, an irritated barrier, the beginning of pigmentation. Regular facials are how those things get caught and addressed before they become bigger problems. It supports your skin as it ages. Collagen and elastin decline gradually from your late 20s onward. Professional treatments, including the right masks, the right serums, techniques like microcurrent, microdermabrasion, and lymphatic drainage, support your skin's structure in ways that compound over time. This is less about "anti-aging" as a concept and more about helping your skin do what it's already trying to do. How Weather Affects Your Skin: The Raleigh Factor Living in Raleigh means your skin deals with a specific set of challenges that generic skincare advice doesn't account for. In summer, Raleigh's heat and humidity can drive oil production up, clog pores faster, creating the conditions for breakouts even in people who don't typically have acne-prone skin, or dehydrate your skin through sweating and heat exposure. The facials that help most in this season focus on deep cleansing, balancing, and keeping the skin clear without stripping it, which would just trigger more oil. Come fall and winter, the opposite is true. Cooler temperatures and indoor heating dry out the air and strip moisture from the skin fast. Dry, flaky skin stops absorbing products well, and the buildup of dead cells makes complexions look dull and older. This is when hydration facials and gentle resurfacing become the priority. We adjust your treatment seasonally as a matter of course. Your skin in July and your skin in January aren't the same, and they shouldn't be treated the same way. Our Facial Menu: What each type of facial does This is what we mean when we say facials are more than pampering. Each of our carefully curated facials is built to to support your skin in a specific way: Esthetician's Choice Facial: If you're new to professional skincare and not sure where to start, this is it. We do a full skin analysis and build your treatment from there so there is no guessing, and definitely no cookie-cutter protocol. Think targeted masks, and specialized serums, all chosen for your skin that day. BR Curated Facial: Tailored entirely to your skin, using the exclusive Biologique Recherche product range (Yes, including the renowned P50. You can read more about why that’s a big deal here.) with lymphatic drainage and sculpting techniques. The best introduction to what BR can do for your skin! People's Choice Facial: Our most comprehensive option: deep exfoliation with Dermasweep, lymphatic drainage, extractions if needed, and custom BR masks. A full reset for skin that's been neglected, congested, or just needs a serious refresh. Collagen Facial: Built around the Biologique Recherche Collagen Feerie mask with Marine Collagen. This facial is designed to plump, firm, deeply hydrate making it ideal for dry, mature, or dehydrated skin. It’s the treatment we reach for most when the goal is genuine firmness and lasting hydration. Oxygenating Facial: Designed to support skin that looks flat, tired, or stressed from exposure to city pollution, frequent travel, or a few too many late nights. This treatment boosts circulation, detoxifies, and brings dull skin back to life. It’s one of the most immediately visible results of any facial we offer. Sculpting Facial: Lymphatic drainage and sculpting massage techniques designed to reduce puffiness, tone the skin, and define facial contours. We use a high-performance plumping serum alongside P50 for both texture and lift. Bio Visage Microcurrent Facial: Electrotherapy microcurrents work with your skin's own biology to restore tone, soften lines, and lift from within with zero downtime and no sun sensitivity. This is one of our favorites for firming and anti-aging results without any invasive procedures. Brightening Facial: Mechanical exfoliation using Dermasweep combined with potent brightening serums and a specialty mask to target hyperpigmentation and uneven tone. Continued home care with the right products extends and maintains the results between sessions. Smoothing Facial: A fruit acid peel followed by a cooling mask, designed to resurface dull or textured skin and leave you looking refreshed and vibrant. Ideal before an event, or as a regular treatment for skin that struggles with congestion and uneven texture. Balancing Facial: A dedicated treatment for acne or hormonal breakouts, beginning with a detailed consultation to identify triggers, deep cleansing, high-frequency therapy, and calming, anti-inflammatory products. The goal isn't just to treat existing breakouts but to make the skin less prone to them over time. Toleskin Facial: For sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin. Calms, rebalances, and strengthens the skin barrier, making it more resilient and less reactive with each session. The antidote to a compromised barrier or over-treated skin. Second Peau Treatment: Medical-grade hyaluronic acid that plumps and smooths the skin visibly (like a topical filler without the needles). Results last 48 to 72 hours making it the perfect pre-event skin prep! Quick Fix Facials: Thirty minutes, targeted to your immediate concern: a glow-enhancing treatment, a breakout-busting session, or a deeply hydrating express treatment. These are for when your skin needs some care but you’re short on time. Dermasweep: Our advanced resurfacing treatment. Dermasweep is a gentler, smarter evolution of traditional microdermabrasion. A soft bristle tip exfoliates the skin’s surface, then we infuse targeted serums deep into freshly resurfaced skin. The result is smoother texture, softened fine lines, and a brighter, more even tone, without the irritation or downtime older resurfacing methods are known for. This treatment is particularly effective for pigmentation, congestion, and dull skin that isn't responding to at-home products alone. Microneedling: Controlled micro-injuries to the skin trigger your body's own wound-healing response, producing new collagen and elastin right where it's needed. The result is realised over a series of treatments. Think firmer, smoother skin with reduced scarring, pigmentation, and fine lines. It's one of the most evidence-backed treatments we offer for long-term skin remodeling, and pairs exceptionally well with Biologique Recherche serums applied immediately after, when absorption is at its peak. Our honest answers to the facial questions we hear most Will one facial cure my skin concerns? Honestly, no. And anyone who says otherwise isn't being straight with you. One facial leaves your skin cleaner, clearer, and genuinely glowing. But real skincare is a practice, not a one-time event. Consistent treatments, paired with the right at home routine, are what produce lasting results. Each facial builds on the last to improve skin health over the long-term. Are facials suitable for sensitive skin? Yes, and we'd argue they're especially valuable for sensitive skin. The right facial, chosen by an esthetician who has assessed your skin, can significantly strengthen your barrier and reduce reactivity over time. The Toleskin Facial is specifically designed for this. What doesn't work for sensitive skin (or any skin really!) is a one-size-fits-all approach, which is why we never take one. How do I know which facial is right for me? Come in and ask! Yep, that's really the answer. A skin consultation gives us the time to look at your skin properly and match you to the right treatment. And no, there’s no pressure, and no upselling you on things you don't need. If something isn't right for your skin, we'll tell you. How often should I get a facial? For most people, every four to six weeks is the sweet spot. This aligns with your skin's natural renewal cycle. The precise answer depends on your skin type, your concerns, and your goals. We've written a full guide on this: How Often Should You Get a Facial? What should I do between facials to keep results? A consistent home routine: gentle cleanser, the right serum for your concern, a good moisturizer, and daily mineral SPF. Learn we can't stress the SPF enough. It's the single most powerful thing you can do to protect what each facial achieves. But don’t worry, you don't have to guess. We'll always send you home with guidance on what your skin needs between visits. How long do the benefits of a facial last? Most clients see and feel visible results like clearer skin, better hydration, smoother texture for one to two weeks. The deeper benefits (collagen support, improved barrier function, reduced congestion) accumulate over a series of consistent treatments and don't fade the same way the surface glow does. That's why regular appointments compound in a way that a single occasional facial never quite replicates. Facials are an investment in skin that works well now and will deliver even more benefits over time. We've been taking care of our Raleigh clients for nearly 30 years, and the one thing we'd want every client to know: your skin responds to consistent, thoughtful care. It's never too late to start, and the earlier you do, the longer it works for you. Book a facial or come in for a consultation. Never a hard sell, always good intentional skincare. Stay glowing, Robin & Lori
Learn moreHow Often Should You Get a Facial? An Esthetician's Guide
Most people should get a facial every four to six weeks. That's roughly once a month, and it’s not a coincidence, it’s because your skin naturally completes a full cell turnover cycle every 28 to 40 days. A professional facial timed to that cycle keeps congestion from building up, maximizes the results of your at-home skincare, and gives us a chance to catch issues before they become bigger problems. With that said, "every four to six weeks" is a starting point, not a rule. How often you should get a facial depends on your skin type, your skin concerns, your age, and the type of facial you're getting. The best way to figure out what’s right for you is to talk to a qualified esthetician. However, we have written a guide that you can use as a starting point. How often should you get a facial for your skin type? Oily or acne-prone skin: every 3 to 4 weeks. Oily and acne-prone skin benefits most from regular professional extractions and deep cleansing. Leaving it longer than a month can allow congestion to build and breakouts to worsen. Consistent treatments (or even every three weeks during a flare) can significantly reduce breakout frequency over time. Dry or dehydrated skin: every 4 to 6 weeks. Dry skin needs regular hydration treatments and exfoliation to remove the buildup of dead skin cells that makes moisturizers less effective. Monthly facials with a focus on hydration (think barrier-supporting masks, enzyme exfoliation, Marine Collagen) make a noticeable difference. Combination skin: every 4 to 6 weeks. Combination skin typically does well on the standard monthly schedule. We can focus on different zones as needed, such as controlling oil in the T-zone while hydrating drier areas all in the same treatment. Sensitive skin: every 4 to 6 weeks. Sensitive skin needs more recovery time between treatments. Over-treating it can cause irritation, redness, or a compromised barrier. Gentler facials spaced further apart deliver better results than frequent ones that push the skin too hard. Normal skin: every 6 to 8 weeks. If your skin is generally balanced and you're not treating a specific concern, every six to eight weeks is plenty to maintain results, keep pores clear, and support healthy skin function. Quick reference Skin type / concern Recommended frequency Oily/acne-prone Every 3 to 4 weeks Anti-aging focus Every 3 to 4 weeks Dry/dehydrated Every 4 to 6 weeks Combination Every 4 to 6 weeks Sensitive Every 4 to 6 weeks Normal/maintenance Every 6 to 8 weeks How often you should get a facial by age Your skin type tells you the cadence. Age tells you what kind of work to prioritize. Here's what we'd recommend at each stage and which of our treatments we reach for most. 20s: prevention, hydration, protecting the glow you have In your 20s your skin is doing most things right on its own. Collagen production is strong, cell turnover is fast, elasticity is at its peak. The work here isn't corrective; it's protective. UV exposure, pollution, stress, and disrupted sleep do more cumulative damage in this decade than most people realize. Regular facials are one of the best ways to stay ahead of it. Your 20s are also the ideal decade to establish a relationship with an esthetician who can track your skin over time and adjust your home routine as things change. Treatments we reach for: The Esthetician's Choice Facial if you're new to facials: we analyze your skin and build the treatment from there. The Oxygenating Facial for anyone dealing with city pollution, frequent travel, or stress-related dullness because it boosts circulation, detoxifies, and restores that alive quality to tired skin. The Sculpting Facial for lymphatic drainage and skin tone, using P50 exfoliation and sculpting massage for a clearer, more defined complexion. How often: If your skin is clear and you're not treating a specific concern, every six to eight weeks is fine. Regular treatments in your 20s are the closest thing there is to future-proofing your skin. 30s: collagen, texture, early pigmentation Cell turnover starts to slow in your 30s, and collagen production begins a gradual decline. You may notice a little less glow, some uneven texture, the first fine lines showing up around the eyes and mouth. Pigmentation from years of sun exposure also starts becoming more visible too. This is the decade where consistent facials shift from "nice to have" to "truly impactful". Exfoliating facials become more important, and treatments that stimulate collagen now will matter significantly in your 40s. Treatments we reach for: The Smoothing Facial: a fruit acid peel followed by a cooling mask to support dull or uneven skin. The Brightening Facial: Dermasweep exfoliation paired with the Biologique Recherche PIGM 400 mask to fade early pigmentation and restore luminosity. The Sculpting Facial for lymphatic drainage, lifting, and maintaining definition. How often: Monthly is generally the right cadence. It supports collagen production, maintains brightness, and keeps pigmentation from getting ahead of you. 40s: firmness, hydration, going deeper By your 40s the changes are more pronounced. Collagen and elastin are declining faster, moisture retention is harder, fine lines have often deepened. The focus shifts to intensive hydration, collagen stimulation, and treatments that genuinely improve firmness. This is also where professional treatment makes the most visible difference. At-home products can only penetrate so far. A skilled esthetician with professional-grade formulations can reach what your serum can't. Treatments we reach for: The Collagen Facial which is built around the Biologique Recherche Collagen Feerie mask with Marine Collagen for deep hydration, plumping, and elasticity that lasts. The Bio Visage Microcurrent Facial for lifting and firming from within, with no downtime and no sun sensitivity. The People's Choice Facial which includes Dermasweep, lymphatic drainage, extractions, and BR masks for a full reset. How often: A facial every four to six weeks maintains collagen levels, keeps skin deeply nourished, and lets each treatment build on the last. If you're addressing specific concerns like sagging or persistent dryness, more frequent appointments at first can accelerate results. 50s and beyond: barrier support, hydration, resilience Estrogen levels decline during and after menopause, which reduces the skin's natural oil production and weakens its moisture barrier causing skin that's thinner, drier, more sensitive, and more prone to irritation. Deep hydration and barrier support aren't optional at this stage, they're the foundation of your skincare routine. The goal isn't to look 35 again. It's to have skin that's healthy, comfortable, and glowing which is entirely achievable with consistent, customised approach. Treatments we reach for: The Toleskin Facial for sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin to calm, strengthen, and build resilience over time. The Collagen Facial for deep hydration and firming, often with a fruit acid peel to keep turnover moving. The Bio Visage Microcurrent Facial for lifting and firming without the heat, irritation, or downtime more aggressive treatments carry. The Sculpting Facial with the Platysma mask add-on for sagging along the jawline and neck. How often: Monthly is ideal as skin in the 50s and beyond responds beautifully to consistency. The cumulative effect of regular treatment is much more significant than occasional intensive sessions spaced far apart. How often you should get a facial by skin goal Age and skin type set the baseline. What you're trying to accomplish adjusts it further. Acne and breakouts: Every two to four weeks during active treatment; monthly maintenance once things are under control. The Acne Facial is where we start for both teens and adults. Hyperpigmentation and dark spots: Every three to six weeks while actively treating; every six to eight weeks for maintenance once you've reached your goal. Treatment gaps let pigmentation creep back. Consistency matters more here than for almost any other concern. Anti-aging and firmness: The standard four to six week cadence is exactly right. The benefits build with consistency over time. Skin that's been consistently supported over months looks fundamentally different than skin that gets an occasional intensive treatment. Can you get a facial too often? No, you can’t get a facial too often. But, you can get a deep exfoliating treatment too often. Over-exfoliating your skin can lead to: A weakened or compromised skin barrier Increased sensitivity and redness Breakouts triggered by overstimulation Peeling or flaking from too-frequent exfoliation If your skin feels tight, looks red, or is reacting more than usual, that's a signal to go easy on the exfoliation. When it comes to getting facials though, consistency over time beats aggressive frequency every time. What happens between facials? Your at-home routine is what maintains and extends the results of each professional treatment. After a facial, we'll usually recommend: A gentle cleanser suited to your skin type Daily SPF. This is our non-negotiable. Sun damage undoes a lot of what facials achieve, and we will never stop reminding you! A targeted serum or active suited to your concern A good moisturizer to support your barrier The better your home routine, the more each facial can focus on deeper work rather than correcting basic imbalances. If you're not sure what your routine should look like right now, that's something we sort out together during your appointment. Ready to help your skin look and feel its best? Book a facial or request a consultation and we'll take it from there. Stay glowing, Robin & Lori Frequently asked questions How often should you get a facial? For most people, every four to six weeks as it aligns with the skin's natural cell turnover cycle and lets results build over time. But, the right frequency depends on your skin type, age, and what you're treating. How often should you get a facial to see results? Most clients notice small differences after their first facial, but consistent results like clearer skin, improved texture, reduced pigmentation typically become visible after three to four monthly sessions. Think of the first facial as a reset and each subsequent one as building on that foundation. Is once a month too often for a facial? No. For most skin types, once a month is the sweet spot. It aligns with the skin's natural renewal cycle and is frequent enough to maintain results without over-treating. Can you get a facial too often? Yes. For most people, more than every two to three weeks can lead to overstimulation, barrier damage, and increased sensitivity. Exceptions include very oily or acne-prone skin under close esthetician supervision, or very gentle hydrating treatments with no exfoliation component. What age should you start getting facials? Any age. Teens dealing with breakouts benefit from professional treatment from around 12 or 13. There's no upper limit either mature skin in the 60s and 70s responds just as well to consistent, appropriate care. How often should you get a facial if you have sensitive skin? Every six to eight weeks. Less frequent, gentler treatments give your barrier time to recover and reduce the risk of irritation or reactivity. What's the best facial for aging skin? It depends on your primary concern. For deep hydration and firmness, the Collagen Facial. For lifting and toning, the Sculpting Facial or Bio Visage Microcurrent. A skin consultation is the fastest way to figure out which one is right for your skin right now. Do facials help with wrinkles? Yes, consistently and over time. They stimulate collagen, deeply hydrate, and improve texture in ways that soften fine lines and wrinkles. We cover this in more detail in our guide to anti-aging facials.
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