Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a facial?
On average, we recommend a facial every 4–6 weeks. This allows us to reset your skin, helping exfoliate dead skin cells that may be interfering with your product’s ability to penetrate the skin. It also allows me to monitor your routine’s impact, and update or tweak it as needed. Most importantly, your appointment gives you the opportunity to care for yourself. If you’ve had an introductory facial with us and we are actively working on healing your skin, we recommend a facial every four weeks.
What do you mean when you use the term Natural Skincare?
The beauty industry as it currently stands profits off of fear and shame and, unfortunately, the “clean beauty” movement within the industry is no different. Our focus is to encourage our clients to feel good about themselves and to cultivate a healthy, nurturing, and cooperative relationship with their skin, not to scare them into using specific products, or deter them from using products they love and are effective. All natural formulations and approaches aren’t always better, nor are they always effective and they can actually exacerbate issues with the skin which is why it’s important to receive guidance when undertaking the use of plant-based skincare.
What we find ourselves drawn to when using more plant based products, to put it simply, is the way they can be used in an intuitive way. The learning curve when using more plant/botanical based products has taught us to continually educate ourselves about skin care ingredients, and has encouraged us to orient our thinking toward a slow, intuitive process rather than to instant gratification. Evidence based cosmetic and skincare science is an essential part of the skincare industry and most products that contain synthetic ingredients and preservatives are not harmful and are incredibly effective.
We wholeheartedly believe it’s ok to not be rigid, not to be perfect, and to give yourself a bit of flexibility.
My face is breaking out, will one facial fix it?
Short answer: no. No singular treatment will have an effect on skin that is breaking out or acneic. We will work together to come up with an approach for your skin that is healthy and effective and that facilitates an intuitive understanding of your skin. If referrals are necessary, we will provide them to help support you in your goals. We truly believe learning to relax and be kind and accepting to your body’s natural processes and mechanisms is a wonderful way to begin healing the skin, but that can be a slow process and requires commitment and patience. I believe if you’re seeing us, you’re up for the challenge!
Why is massage such a big component of your facial?
Relaxation, the ability unwind, and the incredible somatic benefits of massage are an essential part of whole body health which impacts the health of your skin. we believe it is an essential part of a skincare treatment, but we also get if it’s not your thing! Our facials may not be for you if you’re looking for a more clinical approach to your skin health.
How important is drinking water for my skin?
Drinking water is important full stop, but there isn’t much evidence that it affects the hydration levels of your skin. Read more about this here. Your best defence against dry skin (which is exacerbated by Calgary’s dry climate) is to keep a humidifier in your living or workspace; to ensure you are using cleansers that do not contain sulphates; to ensure you are using the proper facial oil or moisturizer; and to see a Facialist on a regular basis to support you skin health.
Should I get microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, microneedling, etc…?
It depends on what you’re looking for. We don’t have much experience with these types of treatments; our approach is less about instant or temporary results, and is more about facilitating a long-term relationship with the skin.
What do you think about Botox?
We want to support our client’s ability to make the best decision for themselves and for many people that is using Botox. If Botox is something that is of interest to you, we would be happy to talk about this in more depth with you in your treatments and to share our knowledge about the subject.
I am starting to develop wrinkles, what cream will make them disappear?
There is no cream in existence that will make a wrinkle disappear. Erin stands by this, If wrinkles “vanishing” are your goal, then regular Botox injections may be your only solution. If you’re looking to have healthy, glowing supported skin, then a beautiful healing skincare ritual and a regular relationship with a Facialist will be your best course of action.
How should I care for my skin after my treatment?
Avoid applying make-up directly following a facial. Allow the beautiful ingredients used in your treatment to penetrate the skin and work effectively.
Avoid saunas or steam rooms for 24 hours
Be very gentle with your skin, particular if extractions were performed in your treatment
No picking!
Avoid the gym for 24 hours if possible
Avoid direct exposure to the sun for 24/48 hours
Follow your ritual recommendations!