What a Facial Is

A facial is a professional skincare treatment performed by a licensed esthetician or skin specialist. It’s designed to cleanse, exfoliate, nourish, and refresh the skin. Facials can be both relaxing and corrective, depending on the specific methods and products used.

In Seoul, facials range from gentle maintenance treatments to advanced, technology-enhanced sessions that target specific skin concerns.

Typical Facial Components

Most facials include several basic steps:

1. Consultation & Skin Analysis – A quick evaluation to identify your skin type and concerns.
2. Deep Cleansing – Removes makeup, oil, and surface impurities.
3. Exfoliation – Chemical or mechanical exfoliation to slough off dead skin cells.
4. Extraction – Gentle removal of blackheads and clogged pores (optional).
5. Mask & Serum Application – Tailored to your skin concern (hydrating, calming, brightening, etc.).
6. Moisturization & SPF – Final steps to protect and lock in benefits.

Facials can be customized, with steps added or adjusted depending on your skin’s needs.

Common Facial Types

 Hydrating Facial

Focuses on replenishing moisture and soothing dry or dehydrated skin. Often involves hydrating masks and serums.

Good for: Dry, flaky, or dull skin that needs moisture and glow.

 Brightening Facial

Targets dullness and uneven tone, often using ingredients such as vitamin C or gentle brightening masks.

Good for: Uneven complexion, dullness, post-travel skin fatigue.

 Deep-Cleansing / Pore Detox Facial

Centers on clearing congested pores and removing buildup. Often includes extractions performed with care.

Good for: Oily or combination skin, enlarged pores, blackheads.

 Sensitive / Calming Facial

Gentle formulas and soothing masks reduce redness and irritation, ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.

Good for: Rosy, irritated, or sensitized skin needing gentle care.

 Acne-Targeted Facial

Uses anti-inflammatory and clarifying methods to support acne-prone skin. May incorporate salicylic acid or calming treatments.

Good for: Breakouts, congested skin, recurrent blemishes.

 Anti-Aging / Firming Facial

Focuses on stimulating collagen, improving elasticity, and smoothing fine lines. May include massage or advanced add-ons.

Good for: Early signs of aging, loss of firmness.

 Technology-Assisted Facials

These combine traditional steps with machines like LED light, ultrasonic exfoliation, or gentle radiofrequency for enhanced results.

Good for: People who want deeper penetration of active ingredients or additional rejuvenation without downtime.

What Happens During a Facial

Before Treatment:
You’ll discuss your skin concerns and goals so the therapist can tailor the session.

During Treatment:
You may feel gentle exfoliation, warm steam for softening skin, relaxing massage, and mask application. There’s little to no discomfort — most clients find it soothing.

Aftercare:

• Skin may feel refreshed and glowing.
• You may be advised to use SPF and avoid heavy makeup or exfoliation for a short period.
• A light glow or slight redness immediately after can be normal.

Frequency & Timing

• Maintenance facials: Every 3–4 weeks helps keep skin balanced and renewed.
• Targeted concerns: A series of sessions often yields better results for issues like congestion, dullness, or sensitivity.
• Relaxation facials: Can be done anytime as part of self-care.

Facials typically take 45–90 minutes, depending on the depth and extras included.

Benefits of Facials

✔ Deep cleansing beyond what home skincare can achieve
✔ Improved hydration and radiance
✔ Smoother texture and refined pores
✔ Relaxing, stress-reducing experience
✔ Tailored care that supports your skin goals

How They Differ from Other Treatments

Facials are non-invasive and gentle compared with medical procedures like chemical peels or lasers. They focus on surface renewal and nourishment rather than deeper structural changes. However, technology-enhanced versions can blur the line by offering deeper benefits while still being comfortable and low-downtime.

Who They’re Good For

Facials are a great choice if you want:

✔ Ongoing skin maintenance
✔ Addressing specific concerns (hydration, congestion, sensitivity)
✔ A relaxing skincare boost
✔ Professional guidance on products and routine

They suit nearly all skin types and ages, with customization to match your unique needs.