What happens during a professional facial? The steps explained

A professional facial is a skincare session that brings deep cleansing, hydration and nourishing steps together in one visit, using products and skincare devices chosen for your skin type. It usually begins with a skin analysis, then moves through cleansing, gentle exfoliation, steam, blackhead removal, a facial massage, serum, a mask and moisturiser. Most sessions last between 60 and 90 minutes.

Below we walk you through a session step by step, so you know what to expect and feel at ease, even if it is your first visit.

How is a professional facial different from skincare at home?

A professional facial carries out, in the right order and with the right products and equipment, the steps that are hard to do well on your own. Your daily routine of cleanser, toner and moisturiser is the foundation of your skincare. A salon facial does not replace that routine; it complements it.

In the salon, each step is chosen after looking closely at your skin, and everything happens in a calm setting, without rushing.

What are the steps of a professional facial?

A session usually has nine steps, although not every step suits every skin. The order and content can change depending on your skin type and what your skin needs on the day. The general flow looks like this:

1. Skin analysis and make-up removal

Once your make-up and the day’s grime have been removed, we look closely at your skin: dryness, oiliness, pores and any sensitivity. We also chat about the products you use at home. If you use retinol or acids, please tell us, so we can adjust the steps that follow.

2. Cleansing

Your face is gently cleansed with a cleanser suited to your skin type. This gives a clean surface for everything that comes next.

3. Gentle exfoliation

Dead cells on the surface of the skin are lifted away with gentle acid-based or enzyme products that do not tire the skin. We do not use scrubbing or abrasive methods at this stage. For sensitive skin, exfoliation is kept lighter or may be skipped for that session.

4. Steam

Warm steam softens the pores and makes the next step more comfortable for your skin. Time and intensity are adjusted to suit you.

5. Blackhead removal

Where needed, blackheads are removed with care. This is the step people ask about most, and you may feel some mild discomfort. We work gently, without overworking your skin, and if anything feels uncomfortable, just tell us and we will pause.

6. Facial massage

Part of the session, the facial massage helps you relax and turns your hour into a proper break.

7. Serum and a device-assisted step

If it suits your skin, a serum chosen for you is worked into the skin with the help of a skincare device. The serum is worked in from the surface of the skin; it is not expected to hurt, though you may feel a light tingling. We also offer it as a session on its own: see our Device-Assisted Serum Facial.

8. Mask

A hydrating, purifying or nourishing mask is chosen for your skin. While it works, you can close your eyes and rest for a few quiet minutes.

9. Moisture and sun protection

The session ends with a moisturiser and sunscreen suited to your skin type. Before you leave, we talk through what to keep in mind at home.

How long does a session take, and how often should you book?

A session usually takes 60 to 90 minutes, depending on what your skin needs and the steps we choose. Your first visit may take a little longer because of the skin analysis and our initial chat.

For most skin types, a facial every 4 to 6 weeks is usually recommended. The interval may be shorter for oily or congestion-prone skin and a little longer for dry or sensitive skin. We plan the right interval together at your first session.

Preparing for your session, and aftercare

You are welcome to arrive wearing make-up, as every session begins by removing it. A few small reminders:

• If you have an important event or occasion coming up, we suggest booking your facial about a week before.
• If you use retinol, acids or other products that can make your skin more sensitive, please mention it when you book.
• If your skin has had any other professional care recently, let us know as well.

Afterwards, it is a good idea to give your skin some time to rest:

• Your skin may look slightly pink for a short while; this usually fades quickly.
• We recommend skipping make-up for the rest of the day and avoiding touching your face too often.
• For 24 to 48 hours, it is best to stay away from saunas, the hammam and intense heat.
• Wear sunscreen every day, especially in the days after your facial.

Who should check with us first?

A professional facial suits most people, but in some situations it may be better to postpone the session or keep it simpler. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have open wounds, noticeable irritation or strong redness on your skin, if your skin is very sensitive, or if you have a skin condition that your doctor is following, please message us before booking.

This is a reminder, not an assessment. If you are unsure, please speak to your doctor first. We will also ask you a few questions beforehand and adapt the facial if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Is every step included in every session?

No. The steps are chosen according to your skin and what it needs on the day. For example, exfoliation may be kept light on sensitive skin, or the device-assisted step may be left out for that session.

When will I see a difference, and how long does it last?

This varies from person to person, depending on your skin type, your home routine and how regularly you have facials. After the session your skin will feel cleansed and cared for. Regular sessions and a good routine at home help you keep that well-cared-for look.

A skincare plan for you

At our salon in Nişantaşı, Istanbul, we plan every professional facial around your skin, with one-to-one attention and no rush. You can find more about the session, its length and aftercare on our Professional Facials page.

If you have a question, or would like to arrange a time that suits you, send us a message. We will listen to what your skin needs and plan the right facial with you.