Snagged a Cheap Facial? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Go
So, you’ve scored a deal on a budget facial and feel like you’ve just hit the self-care jackpot. You’re envisioning yourself drifting into a state of pure relaxation and walking out with radiant, glowing skin. But instead, you find yourself in a spa where most of the staff are fresh out of beauty school, with about as much hands-on experience in giving high-quality facials as you have in operating a forklift.
After an awkward skin consultation, a clumsy facial massage, and an exfoliant or peel that leaves your skin as red as a lobster, you walk out disappointed. But not before you’ve been hard-sold on skincare products and pressured to “pre-book” your next appointment.
Sound familiar? The reality is, not all facials are created equal. It’s up to you, the consumer, to do your homework to ensure you receive a high-quality facial and a superior experience.
But what should you look for? Here are our top tips to help you navigate your next spa visit:
1. Check the Esthetician’s Experience and Licensing
Ask how long the esthetician has been practicing and what specific services they are licensed to perform. For instance, estheticians licensed only in fundamental treatments are not permitted to perform advanced services like microneedling, dermaplaning, and many chemical peels. If you’re seeking top-tier services, make sure your esthetician is an Advanced Practice Esthetician (AP).
It is up to the consumer to verify that their provider has the appropriate training and experience to perform all requested services. Licenses must be displayed in the spa area or treatment room. Licensed Estheticians are required to complete continuing education and regularly renew their licenses. Ensure your esthetician’s license is up-to-date and appropriate for the services you’re booking. This information is publicly available and can be viewed on the Board of Cosmetology website.
There are several services that do not require licensing in the state of MN. Providers must clearly identify these unregulated services via signage at their location, stating “Unregulated services: The following services offered by (salon name) are not regulated by the state of Minnesota:”
2. Ask About the Products Being Used
Inquire about the products being used during your treatment and their active ingredients. Some spas may use inexpensive products to cut costs, which can compromise results and put you at risk for adverse reactions. High-quality spas source their products from reputable brands and may carry medical-grade skincare that can only be purchased if the spa has a Medical Director.
3. Pay Attention to Cleanliness and Procedures
Cleanliness is non-negotiable. Each state has its own laws and regulations governing esthetics, which dictate how equipment must be used and maintained, as well as the use and reuse of materials for facial services. Spas must undergo regular inspections by the local health department. If violations are found, the business is notified to correct the issues. Severe violations or failure to address them can result in a public notice being posted at the business premises. Keep an eye out for these notices, and if you see someone else’s hair floating in the wax pot—run!
Estheticians are also required to keep Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) on all products used in their services. If you have concerns about a product, don’t hesitate to ask your esthetician to show you the MSDS.
4. Understand That Not All Treatments Are Suitable for Everyone
Some treatments may not be suitable for everyone. For example, a microcurrent device should not be used on clients who are pregnant. Ensure your esthetician asks about any health concerns before starting treatment and explains any contraindications to protect your safety.
Experience what a high-quality facial feels like with our introductory new client offer!
At Lujo Aesthetics, every facial includes a complimentary skin consultation to tailor the right treatment for your skincare goals. We use only high-quality and medical-grade products, and we prioritize your safety by adhering to rigorous protocols. Our Advanced Practice Esthetician, Symone Warford, not only holds an AP Esthetician license but is also a licensed Esthetics Educator. She brings years of hands-on experience from working in spas, esthetic institutes, and award-winning dermatology practices. Book below and receive 50% off your first visit at Lujo Aesthetics (discount applied at the time of appointment).
Not sure what to book? View our complete list of services or schedule a free 30-minute, in-person skin consultation.
We look forward to welcoming you to our facial spa!