What does a facialist do?

What is a Facialist?

Facialists are skincare practitioners who focus on improving and maintaining the health and appearance of the skin, particularly the face. They provide expert care and treatments for various skin conditions, such as acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity, which can be difficult to manage without professional help.

What does a Facialist do?

Duties and Responsibilities
Facialists offer a range of facial skincare services:

• Facials – Customized treatments involving cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and the application of masks and serums to improve skin texture and tone
• Chemical Peels – Application of chemical solutions to exfoliate the outer layers of skin, promoting the growth of new, healthier skin
• Microdermabrasion – A non-invasive procedure that exfoliates the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate new cell growth
• Laser Treatments – Laser technology for skin resurfacing, hair removal, and treating pigmentation issues
• Acne Treatments – Specialized treatments including extractions and the use of products that reduce inflammation and bacteria to help clear acne
• Anti-Aging Treatments – Techniques like collagen masks, light therapy, and microcurrent facials to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
• Hair Removal – Utilizing methods such as waxing and threading to remove unwanted facial hair and shape eyebrows
• Makeup Application – Professional application of makeup for special occasions or everyday wear, often including personalized makeup lessons
• Skin Analysis – Assessing a client’s skin type and condition to recommend appropriate treatments and skincare products
• Education – Advising clients on proper skincare routines and product use to maintain healthy skin between professional treatments

Type of Facialists
Now that we have a sense of the scope of the facialist’s work, let’s look at some different types of these skincare specialists, often distinguished by their specific areas of focus and expertise:

• General Facialists – These professionals provide a broad range of facial skincare services, including exfoliation, extractions, and basic treatments for common skin concerns.
• Medical Estheticians / Facialists – Working in medical settings like dermatology offices or plastic surgery clinics, these specialists perform more advanced treatments such as facial chemical peels, laser therapies, and pre- and post-operative skincare.
• Acne Specialists – Focused on treating and managing acne, these estheticians use specialized treatments and products to reduce breakouts and inflammation and to prevent scarring.
• Anti-Aging Skincare Specialists – Concentrating on reducing signs of aging, these professionals offer treatments like microcurrent facials, light therapy, and collagen-boosting procedures to diminish wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.
• Hair Removal Specialists – Specializing in hair removal, these estheticians provide services such as facial waxing, threading, and other hair removal techniques.
• Makeup Artists – While not strictly estheticians, some skincare professionals also specialize in makeup application, offering services for special events, photo shoots, and personalized makeup lessons.
• Holistic Estheticians / Facialists – These specialists use natural and organic products and techniques, integrating holistic approaches to skincare that consider the client's overall wellbeing.
• Dermaplaning Specialists – These practitioners are experts in dermaplaning, a technique that involves gently scraping off the top layer of dead skin cells and fine hair to reveal smoother, brighter skin.
• Microblading Specialists – These specialists focus on microblading, a semi-permanent eyebrow tattooing technique that enhances the shape and fullness of the eyebrows.
• Laser Technicians – Trained in operating laser equipment, these specialists perform treatments for hair removal, skin resurfacing, and pigmentation issues.

What is the workplace of a Facialist like?

Facialists can work in a variety of settings, each offering different opportunities and experiences. Common employers include:

• Salons and Spas – Many facialists work in beauty salons and day spas, providing a range of skincare treatments to clients looking for relaxation and beauty services.
• Medical Spas – Also known as medspas, these facilities combine medical and esthetic treatments, employing facialists to perform advanced skincare procedures under the supervision of medical professionals.
• Dermatology Clinics – Dermatologists often employ facialists to offer complementary skincare treatments and support the overall skin health of their patients.
• Plastic Surgery Offices – Facialists in these settings assist with pre- and post-operative skincare, helping patients prepare for and recover from cosmetic procedures.
• Resorts and Hotels – High-end resorts and hotels frequently have in-house spas that employ facialists to provide luxury skincare services to guests.
• Cruise Ships – Cruise lines often have onboard spas that employ facialists to offer treatments to passengers during their voyages.
• Fitness Centers and Wellness Centers – Some gyms and wellness centers include spa services as part of their offerings, employing facialists to provide skincare treatments to members.
• Retail and Cosmetic Companies – Some facialists work for cosmetic brands, providing product demonstrations, facials, and skincare consultations in retail environments.
• Self-Employment and Private Practice – Many facialists choose to open their own skincare studios or work as independent contractors, offering personalized services directly to their clients.
• Educational Institutions – Experienced facial specialists may work as instructors at beauty schools and training centers, teaching new estheticians the skills needed for the profession.

The facialist’s workplace varies depending on the specific setting in which they work, but generally, it is designed to be welcoming, comfortable, hygienic, and conducive to providing effective skincare treatments:

Salons and Spas

• Environment – relaxing and soothing ambiance with soft lighting, calming music, and pleasant scents to create a tranquil experience for clients
• Treatment Rooms – private or semi-private rooms equipped with treatment beds or chairs, professional skincare equipment, and storage for products and tools
• Hygiene – high standards of cleanliness and sanitation, with regular disinfection of surfaces and tools

Medical Spas and Dermatology Clinics

• Environment – a blend of clinical and relaxing atmospheres, with a focus on professionalism and cleanliness
• Equipment – advanced medical-grade skincare devices, such as lasers, microdermabrasion machines, and chemical peel applicators
• Collaboration - close working relationships with medical professionals, such as dermatologists and plastic surgeons

Resorts and Hotels

• Environment – luxurious and upscale settings designed to offer a pampering experience for guests
• Treatment Rooms – elegantly decorated rooms with high-quality treatment beds and equipment, often with beautiful views or serene décor
• Services – a wide range of services offered, often tailored to the resort or hotel's clientele

Cruise Ships

• Environment – compact but well-equipped spa areas on board the ship, designed to offer a relaxing escape for passengers
• Mobility and Flexibility – facialists may need to adapt to the movement of the ship and the unique schedule of cruise passengers

Fitness Centers and Wellness Centers

• Environment – a holistic and health-focused setting that complements the fitness and wellness services provided
• Integration – working closely with fitness trainers and wellness coaches to offer comprehensive health and beauty programs

Retail and Cosmetic Companies

• Environment – retail environments with demonstration areas for product testing and skincare consultations
• Sales – a focus on educating clients about products and driving sales while providing skincare treatments

Private Practice

• Environment – personalized and customizable spaces designed by the facialist to reflect their brand and treatment philosophy
• Flexibility – the ability to create a unique ambiance and service menu tailored to clientele