Just like a good pair of jeans, when it comes to skin care, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, according to award-winning facialist and owner of Shine Skin and Body, Sheridan Rollard, treating skin based on conditions – rather than generic skin types – is the key to unlocking your healthiest glow.
“Everyone is different, and each skin is unique,” says Sheridan. “By looking at ways to address specific skin concerns, rather than simply a generic ‘skin type’, complexions can be transformed and confidence boosted.”
From acne and pigmentation to dryness and ageing, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of skin care treatments available. And, not every salon will truly personalise the experience. “It is imperative that salons do a full consultation at the start on any skin care to ensure that the facials are tailored to address specific concerns,” Sheridan explains.
“Everyone wants healthy, glowing skin and that’s what we aim to achieve with each of our clients. There are many advanced facials and they are all great, but it is not one size fits all. What can hugely benefit one person could provide minimal improvement or be detrimental to another. Anyone looking to start a skin care journey should find somewhere they feel comfortable with. And, a therapist that deep dives into the skin’s condition.”
With that in mind, here are Sheridan’s five best facials for different skin concerns.
1. Acne: Carbon or Extraction Facial
For acne-prone skin, the Carbon Facial (sometimes referred to as the ‘China Doll Facial’) is a modern must. A thin layer of liquid carbon is applied to the face, allowing it to penetrate deep into the pores. A laser is then used to explode the carbon, exfoliating and cleansing as it goes. Shine takes it further with their renowned extraction technique, targeting blackheads, whiteheads and congestion.
An extraction facial focuses on manually clearing clogged pores. After a deep cleanse and steam to open the skin, impurities are gently extracted, reducing breakouts and keeping the skin clear long-term.
2. Pigmentation: Chemical Peels and IPL
To address uneven skin tone and dark spots caused by sun exposure, hormones or inflammation, Sheridan recommends a combination of chemical peels and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light).
Chemical peels exfoliate the skin and encourage new cell growth using ingredients like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Tranexamic Acid and Kojic Acid. These ingredients dissolve dead skin cells, reduce dark spots, and lighten pigmentation for a brighter, more even complexion.
IPL, meanwhile, uses broad-spectrum light to break down pigmented cells. “The melanin absorbs the light energy and breaks into tiny particles before naturally eliminating,” the notes explain. It also boosts collagen, improves texture and plumps skin. (Note: IPL is not recommended for melasma.)
3. Sensitivity: Traditional Facial and LED Therapy
For sensitive skin, less is more. A traditional facial with calming ingredients and minimal actives helps hydrate and soothe. “Sensitive skin can lead people to worry about reactions to products and treatments. Causing symptoms such as redness, itching, burning and dryness, the condition can make it challenging to find skincare that soothes rather than irritates.”
LED light therapy is a gentle yet effective add-on. Red light, in particular, reduces inflammation, stimulates healing, and boosts collagen – all without irritating the skin.
4. Ageing: LED, IPL, Dermal Needling and Laser Facials
Skin loses elasticity and firmness with age, leading to wrinkles and dullness. LED and IPL treatments help by stimulating collagen. For more advanced concerns, laser facials like fractionated and CO2 lasers promote regeneration and smooth scars. Genesis laser also boosts glow.
Dermal needling (also known as microneedling) creates tiny punctures in the skin, encouraging collagen and elastin production to reduce lines, sagging and uneven texture.
5. Dry Skin: Hydrating Facials
Finally, dry, tight, flaky skin needs moisture and barrier repair. Hydrating facials are tailored with gentle exfoliation, massage, and a sheet or rubberised mask to infuse moisture (such as hyaluronic acid) deep into the skin. It’s about restoring comfort and radiance.
