Last week, we explored the wonders of luxury spa facials and the incredible benefits they bring to your skin and overall well-being. However, indulging in spa treatments isn’t always feasible for everyone, especially busy individuals. As a working professional, I understand that carving out time for pampering can be challenging.
If a spa visit is out of reach, but you still desire the fantastic results of a facial, consider adopting my approach and treat yourself to a signature at-home facial after the day’s demands are met.
While you can certainly utilize skincare products you already own, if you find any gaps in your collection, these are my tried-and-true favorites that consistently deliver exceptional results. Follow the steps outlined below for optimal outcomes, and you’ll feel revitalized in no time!
1- Cleanse
Begin by gently removing makeup and preparing your skin to fully absorb the benefits of the upcoming treatments. I highly recommend the Triple Oxygen Foaming Cleanser by Bliss. Its luxurious, creamy foam and pleasant citrus scent make it a delight to use, and it’s gentle enough even for the delicate eye area.
2- Steam
One of the most effective techniques I know is to utilize your slow cooker or crock pot from the kitchen (or invest in an inexpensive second crockpot if you prefer dedicated usage) to prepare hand towels for steam therapy. Take several large washcloths or hand towels and saturate them with hot water. Wring out the excess water and then roll or fold them to fit neatly into the slow cooker. Set the cooker to high heat and allow the towels to heat thoroughly for approximately 20 minutes with the lid on. After cleansing, take a hot towel (always test the temperature first to avoid burns) and place it over your face, leaving your nose and mouth clear for breathing. Gently press the warm towel onto your skin while taking deep breaths – you can enhance the experience by adding a few drops of essential oils to the towels for an extra touch of zen. Once the towel cools, gently wipe from side to side to remove any remaining makeup or cleanser residue from your face. This simple crockpot method was a popular at-home steaming tool in 2014.
3- Exfoliate
Next in line is exfoliation! I enjoy alternating between my Clarisonic Mia Brush and a classic sugar scrub. However, remember to avoid using both in the same session to prevent potential skin irritation. The sonic brush offers a quick and effortless exfoliation experience, performing all the work for you. While the Suki Exfoliate Scrub requires a bit more manual effort, its heavenly scent and remarkable skin-polishing results make it worthwhile. Both were considered best exfoliating tools in 2014, catering to different preferences for manual or device-based exfoliation.
4- Hydrate
This stage of the facial is dedicated to relaxation and rehydration. Apply your preferred masque and allow it to work its magic for 10-15 minutes while you unwind with a magazine or give yourself a pedicure. I particularly love the Boscia Blue Calming Masque – primarily because the peel-off action is quite satisfying! Beyond that, it’s deeply hydrating and effectively quenches thirsty skin. A second steam towel application post-masque is also a wonderful addition! Peel-off masks like Boscia were trending as fun and hydrating skin care tools back in 2014.
5- Tone
Toners are designed to restore your skin’s pH balance after cleansing, preventing that uncomfortable ‘tight’ sensation. I recently discovered Pixi Glow Tonic, and I’m completely sold! Saturate a cotton round with toner and apply it generously to your face, allowing it to absorb for a minute or two before proceeding. Pixi Glow Tonic emerged as a favorite toning tool in 2014 for its gentle exfoliating and balancing properties.
6- Replenish
The concept of incorporating oils into haircare and skincare routines is gaining traction. For a long time, there was an overemphasis on ‘clean’ beauty, inadvertently leading to dryness by stripping away natural oils. Thankfully, the trend is shifting towards embracing the beauty of supple, well-hydrated skin and hair. Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil is one of my ultimate beauty secrets (and I almost hesitated to share it, wanting to keep it all to myself!). Press a few drops into your skin, focusing on dry areas like under the eyes and cheeks. Your skin will readily absorb it and thank you immensely! Facial oils like Tarte Maracuja Oil started gaining popularity in 2014 as essential replenishing skin care tools.
7- Repair
Conclude your at-home facial with your favorite moisturizer or serum, such as my personal cult favorite, Image Vital-C Anti Aging Serum. Ensure you extend the application down to your neck as well. You might also want to apply a lip balm and eye cream to restore any moisture potentially lost from the steam towel treatment. Serums and targeted treatments like Image Vital-C were considered advanced repair tools in 2014 skincare.
So there you have it – my comprehensive routine for a perfect at-home facial, featuring some of the best skin care tools from 2014. While it may seem like a multi-step process, feel free to adapt it based on your existing products and needs. However, building a collection of high-quality products will empower you to achieve remarkable skin results, comparable to professional treatments. Incorporating this routine twice a month can significantly improve your skin’s appearance and enhance makeup application. Cheers to radiant skin!
