Facial or Massage?

The grand old question… should you get a massage or a facial? In this blog I discuss the pros and cons of each and hopefully help you decide what your next self-care day will look like.

Self-care days are essential for nurturing our overall well-being. If you find yourself with a gift card for a spa day and can't decide between booking a facial or a massage, you're not alone. I've been in that position too, which inspired me to delve into the benefits and considerations of each service. In this blog, I'll share the pros and cons of facials and massages, along with my recommendations to help you make the most of your next spa day. So, let's explore the options and find the perfect self-care experience for you.

FACIALS

When I got my first facial I was in heaven… I had no idea they were peaceful and soothing. I always thought getting a facial was like an upkeep, a necessity, almost like a job. But, for one full hour I relaxed and had nothing but peace and quiet. Not only was it relaxing, it actually does something for your body. My skin was so smooth, soft, and shiny when I left and it stayed like that for days. Obviously I was missing out and didn’t have the proper knowledge behind a facial treatment but now that I do, I will always choose a facial over a massage when I have the option. Now let’s get into the pros and cons: 

PROS: 

Targeted Skincare: Facials provide a customized approach to skincare, targeting specific concerns such as acne, dryness, or aging. With the help of a trained esthetician, you can receive personalized treatments and product recommendations that cater to your unique skin needs. Makes you feel special ;). 

Deep Cleansing and Exfoliation: Facials involve thorough cleansing and exfoliation, helping to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote a clearer complexion. This process can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and leave your skin looking refreshed and revitalized. You truly have no idea how much bacteria can live beneath our skin.

Relaxation and Stress Relief: As mentioned before, a facial is not just a skincare treatment; it's a chance to unwind and relax. The soothing touch, calming ambiance, and aromatherapy elements during a facial can help reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being. My favorite part…

Professional Guidance and Advice: During a facial, estheticians can offer valuable insights and advice on how to care for your skin at home. They can educate you about suitable skincare routines, recommend products, and provide tips to maintain healthy skin between appointments.This way you can keep up on always having smooth skin.

CONS: 

Cost: One of the drawbacks of facials is the cost associated with professional treatments. Depending on the type of facial and the location, prices can vary significantly. It's important to consider your budget. 

Time Commitment: Facials typically require a significant time commitment, ranging from 30 minutes to over an hour. This may pose a challenge for individuals with busy schedules or limited availability.

Potential Skin Sensitivity: Some facial treatments, especially those involving exfoliation or active ingredients, may cause temporary skin sensitivity or redness. It's important to communicate any existing skin conditions or sensitivities to your esthetician to ensure they select suitable products and techniques.

MASSAGES

Now, although I said I would choose a facial over a massage, that doesn’t mean I don’t love a good massage. Plus, maybe after reading this blog you too will have a better understanding of what you would choose! The word massage is a broad topic because there are all different types of massages such as deep tissue, body treatments, full body massages, athlete massages, and more. So keep this in mind too. However, I have had most and I can say my favorite one has been the athlete massage. I might have made this terminology up but It is where you go to a special therapist who focuses on athletes and injuries. Growing up I played sports and my back always hurt so my therapist knew exactly what I needed every time. With this being said, massages have tons of benefits too, especially if you have a bad back or past injuries that need attending too. But, in my experience - massages aren’t always peaceful. They can hurt and sometimes be uncomfortable. I also think it heavily depends on the therapist and why if you do choose a massage, you should stick with someone you have been with before. Therefore when it comes down to a relaxing day, I am mostly going to choose a facial! Let’s talk about the pros and cons of massages now. 

PROS: 
Improved Circulation and Pain Relief: Massages can enhance blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and aiding in the removal of metabolic waste. This increased circulation can help alleviate muscle soreness, reduce pain, and enhance overall physical well-being.

Muscular Tension Release: Whether caused by physical activity or long hours spent at a desk, muscular tension can be a persistent issue for many. Massages target specific muscle groups and employ various techniques, such as kneading and stretching, to release knots, tightness, and muscular imbalances.

Boosted Mood and Mental Clarity: The power of touch during a massage has a positive impact on mental well-being. It can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good hormones, promoting a sense of happiness and mental clarity.

CONS: 

Personal Comfort and Boundaries: Massages involve physical contact with a therapist, which may not be comfortable for everyone. It's crucial to communicate any specific preferences or boundaries to ensure your comfort level is respected throughout the session.

Temporary Soreness or Discomfort: It's common to experience temporary soreness or discomfort after a massage, especially if deeper pressure or intense techniques are used. This typically subsides within a day or two, but it's important to communicate any concerns or discomfort to your therapist during the session.

Medical Considerations and Contradictions: Certain health conditions or medical concerns may require caution or avoidance of certain massage techniques. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or inform your massage therapist about any existing medical conditions to ensure the massage is safe and beneficial for you.

I hope this blog gives you some insight on which service you may choose for your next self-care day. I think wellness and days off are super important and even more important to truly enjoy them! So now ask yourself, facial or massage? Xx.