How to Choose the Best Facial For Your Skin

Woman getting a facial in Edmonds at 212 Med Spa

How to Choose the Best Facial For Your Skin

POV: You’ve just finished a great workout at your favorite gym (aka Harbor Square), and instead of rushing home, you can walk next door for the perfect facial in Edmonds that leaves your skin glowing

Or maybe you’re tired of driving across town for skincare treatments when you could easily fit a facial into your routine right in your own neighborhood. When you’re looking for a facial in Edmonds, convenience shouldn’t ever mean compromising on quality.

Understanding the different facial types is the first step toward skincare perfection. Plus, we know you’re busy, so we’re thrilled you’re staying close to home to maximize what we can do together. 

Facials aren’t just about relaxation—they are professional skin treatments designed to cleanse, exfoliate, nourish, and address specific skin concerns. At 212 Med Spa, conveniently located in Edmonds, we offer a range of specialized types of facials to cater to your needs, helping you unlock healthier, more radiant skin without the hassle of traveling far from home or straying from your routine.

But, First: What is a Facial?

A facial is a multi-step skin treatment performed by a licensed esthetician that cleanses, exfoliates, and nourishes your skin. The purpose of a facial extends beyond a simple at-home skincare routine, providing a deeper cleanse and more targeted treatment. 

During a facial, many techniques and products are used, which may include steaming, exfoliation, extractions, masks, serums, and massage.

Why you should get a facial:

  • Deep Cleansing: Facials remove dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities from your pores more thoroughly than daily cleansing does.
  • Exfoliation: Professional exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, revealing a smoother, brighter complexion and allowing skincare products to penetrate more effectively.
  • Customization: Facials are customized to address specific concerns like acne, aging, dehydration, or uneven skin tone.
  • Improved Circulation: Facial massage during a treatment can stimulate blood flow, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to skin cells.
  • Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Facials offer a soothing experience that promotes relaxation and stress relief.

Understanding Your Skin Type

Choosing the best facial for you begins by understanding your skin. Your skin type dictates how your skin behaves, what it needs, and how it will respond to different treatments. There are four primary skin types: dry, oily, combination, and sensitive.

Dry Skin

Dry skin often feels tight, rough, and may appear dull or flaky. This skin type typically produces less natural oil (sebum) and struggles to retain moisture. Fine lines can be more noticeable, and the skin may be prone to irritation. When you’re looking for a facial in Edmonds for dry skin, focus on deep hydration and nourishment to replenish moisture levels and strengthen the skin barrier. Look for facial types that incorporate hydrating masks, serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, and gentle, non-stripping cleansers.

Oily Skin

Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum production, leading to a shiny complexion, enlarged pores, and a predisposition to breakouts. While oily skin may show signs of aging less quickly due to natural lubrication, it requires regular deep cleansing and balancing treatments. For oily skin, focus on facial types that focus on deep cleansing, exfoliation, and extractions to remove excess oil and impurities, helping to minimize pore congestion and reduce acne. Ingredients like salicylic acid, clay, or charcoal are often used.

Combination Skin

Combination skin presents a mix of dry and oily areas, commonly an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) with drier cheeks. This skin type can be challenging to treat since it requires a balance that addresses both concerns. A customized facial is often the best choice for combination skin. Your esthetician will tailor products and techniques to different areas of the face, providing hydration where needed and controlling oil where it’s excessive.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is prone to redness, irritation, itching, or burning when exposed to certain products or environmental factors. It requires gentle care and products free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and aggressive exfoliants. When you’re considering types of facials for sensitive skin, prioritize calming, soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile. The goal is to reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier without causing further irritation. If you have sensitive skin, patch testing new products and discussing all sensitivities with your esthetician are crucial.

Determining Your Skin Concerns and Goals

Pinpointing your skin concerns and desired outcomes will further guide you in choosing the best facial in Edmonds. Let’s talk about a few: 

Acne

If you’re dealing with breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, or cystic acne, facials that clear congestion and reduce inflammation are essential. These facial types typically involve deep cleansing, thorough exfoliation, and careful extractions to unclog pores. Ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide may be used, along with soothing masks to calm irritated skin. Regular treatments can help manage acne and prevent future breakouts.

Anti-Aging

If your goals include reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and improving skin firmness and elasticity, anti-aging facials are designed for you. These treatments often incorporate ingredients that stimulate collagen production, like peptides, antioxidants, and certain acids. Techniques like mild chemical peels or specialized masks can also be included to promote skin cell renewal and a more youthful appearance.

Hydration

For skin that feels tight, dry, or shows signs of dehydration, a hydrating facial is paramount. The goal is to infuse the skin with moisture and lock it in. These facials often use humectants like hyaluronic acid, nourishing oils, and rich, creamy masks to plump the skin, reduce flakiness, and restore a supple texture. Hydration is fundamental for all skin types, and a focused hydrating facial can benefit even oily skin if it’s dehydrated.

Softening

Improving skin texture and getting a smoother, softer feel often involves exfoliation and nourishment. Facials that soften the skin will remove dead skin cells that contribute to a rough texture. This can be achieved through various exfoliation techniques, followed by hydrating and conditioning treatments that leave the skin feeling refined and smooth.

Cleansing

While all facials involve cleansing, some facial types specifically prioritize deep cleansing to purify the skin. These are ideal for anyone with congested pores, frequent blackheads, or people exposed to environmental pollutants. A deep cleansing facial focuses on thorough cleansing, steaming to open pores, and meticulous extractions, often followed by purifying masks to rebalance the skin.

Get a Facial in Edmonds at 212 Med Spa

Woman getting a facial at 212 Med Spa

At 212 Med Spa, we believe in a personalized approach to skincare. Our experienced estheticians will assess your skin type, goals, and concerns to recommend the best facial in Edmonds for you. We are committed to helping you achieve your healthiest, most radiant complexion. Visit our dedicated Facials in Edmonds, WA page to learn more and book your appointment today.

Types of Facials at 212

We offer a selection of advanced facial types designed to deliver targeted results:

Hydrafacial

You know that feeling when your skin looks tired and dull, no matter how much moisturizer you slather on? That’s where the Hydrafacial comes in. Think of it as a four-step reset button for your face—it cleanses away the day’s buildup, gently exfoliates dead skin cells, extracts stubborn blackheads, and floods your skin with hydration using our signature “vortex-fusion” technology.

What makes this treatment special is how it delivers a cocktail of skin-loving ingredients—antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid—directly into your pores while it works. The best part is you’ll actually see the difference when you look in the mirror afterward. Your skin will feel plumper, look brighter, and have that coveted “just-had-a-facial” glow. Whether you’re dealing with fine lines, stubborn clogged pores, or just generally thirsty skin, the Hydrafacial works for virtually everyone.

Dermaplane Facial

Ever notice how your makeup seems to sit on top of your skin instead of blending seamlessly? Or how your skincare products don’t seem to sink in like they should? A Dermaplane Facial might be exactly what you need. Don’t let the word “scalpel” scare you—this treatment uses a tiny, sterile surgical blade to gently sweep away the layer of dead skin cells and peach fuzz that’s been dulling your complexion.

The result is nothing short of amazing. Your skin will feel baby-smooth to the touch. Suddenly, your foundation glides on effortlessly, your serums actually penetrate instead of sitting on the surface, and you’ll have that enviable lit-from-within glow that makes people ask what you’ve been doing differently. It’s become a go-to treatment for anyone wanting instantly smoother skin texture and a radiant look.

Chemical Peel

Think of a Chemical Peel as hitting the refresh button on your skin. We apply a carefully chosen chemical solution that essentially tells your damaged top layer of skin it’s time to go, making way for the fresh, smooth skin hiding underneath. Whether you’re battling sun spots from past beach vacations, dealing with acne scars that won’t fade, or just want to even out your skin tone, there’s a peel strength that’s right for you. It’s like fast-forwarding your skin’s natural renewal process—you’ll emerge with a noticeably brighter, more even complexion.

Cryolift Facial

Imagine the most refreshing, invigorating facial you’ve ever had—that’s the Cryolift Facial. This treatment uses controlled cold temperatures to wake up your skin in the best possible way. The cooling sensation feels incredibly soothing while it gets to work calming redness and inflammation, giving your collagen production a boost, and tightening up any pesky enlarged pores. You’ll walk out our doors feeling like your skin just had the most refreshing drink of water, with a firmer, more toned appearance that looks naturally revitalized.

FAQ

How can I customize my facial at 212?

Yes! At 212 Med Spa, customization is at the core of our approach. During your consultation, our estheticians will discuss your specific skin type, concerns, and goals. Based on this assessment, they will tailor the products, techniques, and any additional treatments to create a facial experience just for you.

How soon after a facial can I wear makeup?

For most facials, especially gentler ones, you can typically apply makeup a few hours after your appointment. However, if you’ve had a more intensive treatment like a chemical peel or extractions, your esthetician may recommend waiting 24 hours or longer to allow your skin to recover fully and avoid irritation.

Will my skin purge after a facial?

Skin purging can occur after certain facials, particularly those that involve deep cleansing and exfoliation (like extractions or some chemical peels). This temporary breakout happens as the treatment accelerates cell turnover, bringing underlying impurities to the surface. It is a sign that your skin is detoxifying and typically resolves within a few days to a couple of weeks, leading to clearer skin.

What are some other skin treatments at 212?

In addition to our various facial types, 212 Med Spa offers other treatments that can complement your skincare journey. Consider exploring our Red Light Therapy for cellular rejuvenation and collagen stimulation, or enjoy the benefits of our Himalayan Salt Sauna for overall wellness and improved skin health through detoxification.

What skin goals are you hoping to achieve with your next facial?