Q & A: Ask the Esthetician

Before I began working in Social Media I worked in the Spa Salon at the Hot Springs. I often overheard conversations the estheticians had with guests regarding facials and skincare. Knowing that we all have questions and concerns about our skin (after all, we all want to look great), I sat down with an esthetician to get some answers about the most commonly asked questions.

Linda Stamp, Primary Esthetician,
Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa

Q: How often should I be getting a facial?
A: Once a month is ideal so we can do a deeper cleanse and a skin analysis to keep you on track. Most importantly, we'll make sure your routine at home is consistent with your skincare needs and that the products that you are using will achieve your desired results.

Q: What products do I need to be using?
A: Everyone needs a good cleanser, exfoliant and moisturizer. Your cleanser and exfoliant will remove makeup, oil and dead skin to prep for your moisturizer. In turn, your skin will be ready for a more even makeup application.

Q: My pores are really large, can I shrink them?
A: Pore size is genetic, that's what give us our particular skin type (i.e. dry, combination, oily) but the good news is we can make them look smaller! Exfoliating will refine the pore and keep it clear. Scrubs, retinol products and peels will also help pores look smaller. (We'll talk more about peels next week!)

Q: What's the best way to get rid of clogged pores and blackheads on your nose and upper cheeks at home?
A: The best way to get rid of clogged pores and keep them clear is exfoliating. Getting regular facials that include extractions will help rid the pore of congestion; at home using a product with salicylic acid such as gloPurifying Gel Cleanser will help the cells of the epidermis to shed more readily, preventing the pores from clogging.

Next week Linda will be back to answer more questions about peels, eye creams, and serums. Stay tuned and if you have any questions for Linda, post away!