Cleansing your face is probably the most basic part of a skincare routine that even a beauty noob understands. Washing your face every morning gets you ready for the day ahead and also cleans out the excess oils and impurities that could have clogged your pores through the night. It even gets rid of pollutants, sebum and grime that could have accumulated throughout the night. But did you know that every now and then your face needs a more thorough cleanse? This is why people go in for professional treatments so that all the impurities are drawn out. However, sometimes walking into a salon can be confusing because of the many options available on the menu. We’re here to help you understand the difference between a face clean-up and facial.
Table of Contents
What Is A Facial?
A basic facial is a skin treatment that cleanses pores, exfoliates the skin, treats basic skin concerns and pampers you with a mask. This is based on skin type and the multistep process is supposed to help rejuvenate and nourish your face. So glowing, happier and healthier skin can be expected after the treatment.
The Steps Every Basic Facial Follows
Cleansing: As always, the facial starts with cleansing the face, neck and decolletage area to remove any remnants of product, makeup or dirt. Usually, they use a wet washcloth, a cotton pad or a facial sponge to do this along with a facial cleanser.
Exfoliation: Another important step to cleanse the skin well is exfoliation. This will buff away the dead skin cells and clear the way for healthier cell rejuvenation.
Steaming: This is done either through a hot towel being placed on the face or by exposing the skin to some steam. This really helps open up the pores so that it’s easier to get rid of impurities.
Extraction: People who have extremely oily skin tend to have clogged pores, blackhead and whitehead accumulation and debris on their skin. For truly unclogging the pores, extractions are done by hand or a metal instrument.
Massage: After the cleansing process, a massage is mandatory. This includes the face and sometimes upper body to improve lymphatic drainage.
Masking: According to your skin type and skin concern, a mask is applied. This could be a clay-based one for oiliness or a hydrating one for dry skin. After that, the facial could include a serum and moisturiser.
What Is A Clean-Up?
A clean-up is actually a whole lot simpler and can be done every few weeks. As the name suggests, it is about cleansing the skin and making it squeaking clean but isn’t as extensive as a facial. It usually costs less and takes less time too. So, it really depends on your personal preference and skin type when choosing between a clean-up vs facial.
The Steps Every Basic Clean-Up Follows
Cleansing: The process starts with cleansing the skin thoroughly so that any product or residue of dirt is washed out.
Exfoliating: An exfoliator will be used after this with a granulated texture to really clean out those clogged pores and give your skin a radiant glow.
Steaming: A steamer is used to really give your skin the special treatment it deserves. This will help with removing any toxins that could still be hidden in your skin.
What Is The Difference Between A Clean-Up And A Facial?
If you’re confused as to what the difference between clean-up and facial really is, we’re here to break it down for you. Firstly, there are many types of clean-ups and facials available and every salon has a different variety of them on offer. Our suggestion would be to ask what each entails so that you’re prepared beforehand.
When talking about clean-up vs facial, this table will be helpful.
| Facial | Clean up | |
| Massage | Includes a massage | Doesn’t include a massage |
| Cost | More expensive | Cheaper |
| Includes | Includes deep cleansing, exfoliation, removal of blackheads, moisturiser and face mask | Includes deep cleansing, exfoliation, removal of blackheads |
| Time | Takes at least 60-90 minutes | Takes up to 45 minutes |
| How It’s Done | Always done by a professional in the salon | Can be done by a profession or can also be done at home |
| Chemical Peel | Chemical peels can be included in this treatment | Chemical peels aren’t included |
| Products | Special products are used according to your skin type, skin concern and result wanted | Usually, generic products are used unless you have sensitive skin or are allergic to an ingredient. |
| Post Care | Serum and moisturiser is usually applied after it | No product is used after a clean up usually |
| Variety | There are many kinds of facials like microdermabrasion, oxygen facial, acne facial, gold facial etc | Usually only one standard kind of clean-up |
| Consultation | Might need a doctors consultation for skin concerns | No consultation needed |
Which Is Better: Facial Vs Clean-Up?
Now that you know all the facts about a clean-up and facial, you can make a decision based on your preference. If you have serious skin concerns like excessive oiliness, buildup and blackheads or even a lot of dryness- the extensive treatments in a facial could really help you. It would be more suited to you and your skin would reap the benefits. However, if you just want a cleanse, then a clean-up would be well-suited. Another factor to keep in mind is the massage- this helps in blood circulation and cell rejuvenation. So, if that sounds appealing to you, then a facial should be your personal choice.
Featured Image: Pexels
