Salon treatments
Professional facials in the salon, step by step: a basic treatment protocol
Quick answer
A basic salon facial consists of skin analysis, make-up removal and cleansing, toner, exfoliation, massage, mask and moisturising/sun protection. The product used at each step is chosen according to the client's skin type.
1. Consultation and skin analysis
The treatment starts with a short consultation: the client is asked about the products they use, known allergies, recent treatments (laser, electrolysis, chemical peels) and the general condition of their skin. This information determines which products to use and which to avoid.
2. Cleansing
Any make-up is first dissolved with a soft product such as cleansing milk. The face is then cleansed with a cleanser suited to the skin type:
- Oily and combination skin: the facial cleansing gel is massaged onto wet skin, worked into a lather and rinsed thoroughly.
- Dry skin: the facial cleansing milk is massaged in, residue is removed with a pad and the face is rinsed with water.
3. Toner
After cleansing, toner is misted onto the skin and left to dry without rinsing. It removes remaining traces of cleanser and prepares the skin for the next steps.
4. Exfoliation
A peel is applied to remove dead cells. Croen Intense Peeling Cream is a mechanical peel containing almond shell powder: it is massaged in with circular movements and, once the cream has been absorbed, the particles are rinsed off or removed with a tissue. For sensitive skin the peel can be skipped or a gentler product chosen.
5. Massage and mask
After the facial massage, a mask is applied according to the skin's needs. The vitamin complex cream mask is spread in a thin layer over the cleansed face, neck and décolleté and rinsed off with lukewarm water after 10–15 minutes. Finishing the treatment with a peel-off alginate mask is also a popular choice.
6. Moisturising and sun protection
The treatment is completed with a moisturiser suited to the skin type. For daytime treatments, especially after a peel, a broad-spectrum sunscreen should be applied as the last step, and the client should be reminded to use sunscreen at home too.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a classic facial take?
It depends on the steps, but a basic facial usually takes 45–75 minutes.
How often should you have a facial?
It depends on the skin type and needs; many salons recommend intervals of 3–4 weeks for regular care.
Is a peel applied in every treatment?
No. It depends on the client's skin; for sensitive, irritated or recently treated skin the peel can be postponed.
This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If you have a persistent skin condition, please consult a dermatologist.
