9 Game-Changing Skin Secrets Facialists Do at Home

GameChanging Skin Secrets Facialists Do at Home
Photographed by Theo Wenner, Vogue, March 2017

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While fresh-from-the-facialist skin continues to be celebrated on runways and Instagram feeds, commitment to skin care can be just that—a commitment. Even facialists struggle to make time for full-on treatments, but it’s their brilliant daily tricks that give them that unbelievable, makeup-free glow (it is, after all, the greatest form of advertising). A quick poll of some of the country’s most in-demand aestheticians reveals what they do at home. From cleansing techniques to must-have microneedling devices, here, they provide an arsenal of new secrets for a complexion worthy of a pro.

The Best Cleanser Is in the Kitchen
“I hate stripping down the skin—I find sunflower oil to be the most effective cleanser. I massage the oil in [without using any water] and then remove it with a warm wet muslin cloth. The oil helps make my skin soft, smooth, and it thins the oil in the pores to remove debris, which could potentially lead to a blemish. It is really great for all skin types.” —Kristina Holey, San Francisco, KristinaHoley.com

Do the White Towel Test
“I like using olive oil to cleanse. After massaging it in, use a fresh white microfiber towel soaked in warm water to take it off and repeat until everything is gone. The white makes it easier to see how much dirt and makeup you’re removing. Rinse the cloth and then repeat the process until you no longer see anything show up on the towel. My actresses take anywhere from eight to 40 times to fully remove red carpet makeup, but you must get it all.” —RamPrakash Khalsa at Lancer Dermatology, Beverly Hills, LancerSkincare.com

Try Yoga to Make Your Mask Work Harder
“I use one of my own sheet masks almost every night and I’m not good at sitting around, so I do yoga to pass the time. I have found that doing downward dog makes my skin feel like I’m kicking my mask into overdrive. It’s no secret that yoga is good for your circulation and lymphatic system. I always see a big difference and I know my mask is penetrating better.” —Joanna Vargas, New York City, JoannaVargas.com

Deep Freeze Your Sheet Mask
“After cleanser and toner, apply a hydrating sheet mask—I love Meder Beauty Science Hydra-Fill Mask—and immediately run an ice cube wrapped in gauze over the mask for two to three minutes. Keep the mask on for 20 minutes, then remove and apply moisturizer. This wakes up tired, dehydrated, dull skin.” —Joanna Czech, Dallas, JoannaCzech.com

Perform the Ultimate De-Puffing Ritual
“Steep two bags of green tea in hot water, then remove them and allow them time to cool. Lie down and place one bag over each eye for three minutes. The caffeine in the tea will help tighten the tissue, as well as reduce puffiness. Next, place two spoons that have been chilled in the freezer over your eyes for five minutes or you can also massage your eye cream in with the chilled spoons, gently applying pressure outward toward your temples. The cold metal will help de-puff and reduce tired circles.” —Kate Somerville, Los Angeles, KateSomerville.com

Stop Breakouts With Baking Soda
“Baking soda can be mixed with masks you already have at home to get an added boost to clear blackheads, reduce acne, and degrease the face.” —Georgia Louise, New York City, GeorgiaLouise.com

Steam Your Way to the Best Skin Prep
“Before applying a hydrating mask, steam your skin in the shower to help soften hardened oil in the pores, then use an at-home exfoliant. This two-step process helps allow ingredients to penetrate deeper.” —Shani Darden, Los Angeles, ShaniDarden.com

Invest in an At-Home Microneedling Device
“I use a microneedle. It helps the skin produce more collagen and elastin, and helps accelerate healing from any damage the cells may have including pigmentation and premature aging. Use clean, nonchemical topical products for the best results.” —Ildi Pekar, New York City, IldiPekar.com

Exfoliate Your Lips Every Night
“I like to whip together my own lip scrub each night before bed with a teaspoon of coconut oil and raw sugar each, and a dash of cinnamon. Apply generously and gently scrub. Coconut oil is known for its hydrating and healing properties; the raw sugar has uneven edges, which helps eliminate any loose or dead skin; and the cinnamon acts as a stimulant, giving your lips a rosy, plump look.” —Gina Marí, Beverly Hills, GinaMari.com

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