What’s the difference between a medical facial and a spa facial?
The end goal—clear, beautiful healthy skin—is the same no matter what facial you get. But a medical facial, like the ones we offer, is much more powerful than anything you can get in a spa. The main reason: we use medical-grade skincare products that contain higher concentrations of active ingredients. This gives you more dramatic results. Day spa facials and a massage facial are often geared toward a more relaxing, pampering experience with added hand and foot massages, spa music, and aromatherapy, for example. The other benefit of medical facials: you can have other concerns treated by one of Dr. Sheffield’s staff after your facial. Specialty spa facials are generally for patients 30 years and old and are used as part of the facial rejuvenation anti aging process.
Santa Barbara facials also provide a safe and effective method for complementing various non-surgical treatment options, such as laser resurfacing or injectable dermal fillers. The skin receives the additional preparation that it needs and post-treatment results are improved. It also helps your cosmetic doctor to coordinate with a medical aesthetician to create a top-notch game plan.
WHO IS THE MEDICAL FACIAL FOR?
With a wide range of products, tools, and methods available, a medical facial should be customized to accommodate the specific needs of each patient, whether they are looking to restore skin that is aging, sun damaged, dehydrated, sun damaged, or prone to acne.
POSSIBLE ASSOCIATED RISKS
Dr. Robert Sheffield, the Med Spa Director issues an important warning. He cautions those who take Accutane, have severe acne or chronic rosacea to avoid these facials and consult with their chosen dermatologist first. Women who are pregnant, patients who are on blood thinners, and those who are experiencing any sort of heart condition should steer clear of photorejuvenation (IPL) and microcurrent therapy. Both of these components are typically included in medical facials. Discuss any skin sensitivities or allergies with your chosen aesthetician or cosmetic doctor before beginning treatment.
HOW IS THE PROCEDURE PERFORMED?
A medical facial tends to be far more vigorous when compared to classic European Facials and is much less relaxing. The results are more than worth it, though. A quick consultation with an aesthetician takes place before the skin is cleansed, steamed, exfoliated and massaged. Other treatments are incorporated, such as a chemical peel, photo rejuvenation (also known as IPL), dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, LED light therapy, microcurrent, that are best suits to the needs of the skin
HOW LONG DOES THE PROCEDURE TAKE?
Anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?
The skin may have a slightly warm feeling and a red appearance, but it is nothing that cannot be hidden by makeup (although most patients are not going to want to hide their newfound glow).
WHAT BENEFITS ARE PROVIDED?
The skin experiences a number of immediate benefits, such as a smoother appearance, tightening, brightening, increased lift, and added clarity. These results are cumulative, so patients who go often are rewarded with a better look.
WHAT IS THE BEST COURSE OF ACTION?
The majority of aestheticians suggest receiving a medical facial once every 30 days but it can be tough to fit these appointments into our schedules. In these instances, quarterly treatments are very beneficial, as well. At the very least, patients should receive these facials whenever they have free time because they are proven to provide a helpful boost to our skincare routines.
WHO SHOULD BE ADMINISTERING THIS TREATMENT?
A medical facial Santa Barbara should only be administered by a licensed aesthetician or a board-certified dermatologist. The supervision of a trusted cosmetic physician is also recommended. The aesthetician will need to be licensed in the state they have chosen to practice in. Several different schools are available for further education and a practical exam/state administered written exam must be passed for licensing purposes.