Q&A

Here's some frequently asked questions to prepare you for your upcoming visit with Skin Shaman Aesthetics

What is the best facial treatment to choose for my first appointment?

For your first visit, I recommend booking a Custom Facial. During your appointment, I will analyze your skin and determine any additional treatments I may suggest for the future.

What should I do or avoid in preparation for my facial appointment?

1. No exfoliation for 72 hours prior:

As professional treatments in clinic are stronger due to increased potency of products, avoid all exfoliation for 72 hours prior to your appointment. This includes retinols, tretinoin, differin, renova, etc.

2. Avoid filler/botox for 2-4 weeks:

Botox/filler has a "setting in" period of 2-4 weeks, it is important to let your esthetician know before treatment if you have received one of the following recently. As facials allow for movement and massage of the face, this could potentially migrate the injections or compromise your results.

3. No steriod/antibiotic usage in the last 4 weeks:

Steroid and antibiotics compromise the skin for a period of time during and after usage. This can result in increased sensitivity, delayed healing, reduced immunity, disruption of skin microbiome, and extreme photosensitivity (UV). It is important to be off these medications for 4 weeks before your facial appointment. This includes all topical and oral usages.

My skin is currently experiencing significant issues, such as an extreme acne flare-up, compromised barrier, or sudden changes. Am I still eligible to receive a facial treatment?

Absolutely! That is what I'm here for. Each appointment includes a comprehensive consultation where I analyze and assess your skin. We'll also discuss your skincare goals and develop a plan to achieve them.

How often should I receive a facial?

The frequency of facials ultimately depends on your personal schedule and individual preference.

However, scientifically, a monthly facial is recommended to align with the skin's natural cell turnover rate of approximately 28 days. This regularity can best optimize your skin’s appearance and health, especially if you’re addressing active acne, sensitivity, or other specific concerns.

If you’re not addressing any active concerns and simply wish to support your skin’s overall health, a facial every 6-8 weeks can still be highly beneficial for maintaining a balanced, radiant complexion and optimal skin wellness.

I’m interested in starting a new skincare routine but unsure where to begin. Could you recommend some cost-efficient or introductory products to try?

Yes! During your treatment, I carefully assess your skin by examining it under a magnifying lamp and observing how it responds to various products. Based on this, I create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your skin's unique needs, if desired. You will receive a downloadable copy of the plan for easy reference, detailing all my recommendations and instructions on how to use them. Whether the products are from drugstore brands or professional lines, the plan is designed to provide you with the best options suited to your skin.