Facial Questions

I want to book a facial, which one do I choose?

Facials and skin treatments fall into two categories, relaxation and clinical. We offer both here at Bella Mer. If you are just looking to relax and also get some skin pampering, our European style spa facial, The CocoCabana Facial is a great option for anyone. It incorporates a lot of massage and aromatherapy while also cleansing, exfoliating, and deeply nourishing your skin. If you are new to facials, this is a great option to start out on. Our facials are all customizable and will be tailored to your unique needs. If you're uncertain what you want, just book a CocoCabana or Mermaid Facial and note in your comments at booking that you are not sure what you want. Your therapist will guide you when you arrive.

Will a facial cause me to break out?

It's possible! Facials have the affect of stimulating sluggish skin into doing what it's supposed to do. Sometimes, a congested pore might need to be purged and the massage and cleansing procedure in a facial will trigger your skin to target and heal those areas. If you haven't had a treatment before or haven't had one in some time, a light breakout is always possible. What should not happen in your facial is an allergic reaction to our skincare products, which can look like a breakout. Often, when you try a new product and a strong ingredient in it does not agree with your skin, a rash can appear. We use only professional product and our therapists are well trained to identify potential triggers in your skin that could lead to one of these types of breakouts. Facials help the skin, not hurt it.

I am sensitive to products, what do you use?

We use several professional lines (Moor Spa, Skin Script and PCA). Products from our lines are formulated to work with most skin types. One size doesn't fit all though and that is why we carry three lines. If your skin reacts to fragrances (even essential oils), we can use PCA on you which is free of fragrances and unnecessary harsh ingredients that are known to cause skin sensitivity. We will address all your concerns in your consultation.

What should I expect in my service?

We perform our facials on a flat massage table. You will be expected to partially undress so that we can work on your shoulders and chest. You don't have to undress if that makes you feel uncomfortable. We have sheets and blankets to cover you with for your privacy and comfort. You will come in, enjoy a house beverage, will be offered to sit in our relaxation lounge and get into a robe. It is all optional though, not a requirement. In a facial we will touch your face, neck, chest, shoulders, hands and arms. We will mess up your hair by wrapping it in a towel. You may feel relaxed and dizzy afterwards. It is best if you plan on taking your time for this appointment and be here for a while longer than just your appointment time.

How should I prepare for my service?

Wear comfortable clothing. It is best to come without makeup but not a requirement. Our space is private and relaxing so no need to worry about what you are wearing or how you look. Facials are BEST booked at night so you can go home and relax afterwards. Skip the makeup and sun after your service for best results. Please leave jewelry and expensive items at home, your eyes will be closed a lot here. Plan to turn your phone off, we like to have your undivided attention.

Does a facial hurt?

Depends! Some facials do hurt but they don't have to. You are either someone who just likes to be pampered and let everything feel good or you're someone who wants us to "get in there" and clean out your pores. You tell us what you want and expect and we will adjust your treatment to your wants and needs. Even if that changes from visit to visit! Let us know before we start if you just want to relax today or if you feel like you need a lot of work.

I want a peel but I've never had one, which one is best?

We can definitely work up to that! Here at Bella Mer we offer many peels and enzymes from papaya to Jessner's/TCA and it's all customized to you. We do not recommend doing a strong peel on your first visit. We love doing those but we do need to establish a history with your skin before we put an acid on you that has the potential to wreck your stratum corneum when put on the wrong client. Not all peels are created equal, so even if you had it somewhere else, ours could be a completely different formulation. We always recommend an enzyme on your first visit. Once we've gone over your history, we can branch out into stronger treatments on your next visit. It scares us when you want to start out too aggressive! Let's get to know each other first.

I am concerned about aging, what can you do for me?

We have so many treatment options for aging. First we would establish what you're using in your home care regimen, add to it what we deem necessary, and then we can compliment that with an in-house enzyme or peel to accelerate results. Skincare is long-term so results are not instant but we can achieve significant improvement in the texture and color of your skin with just one visit. To tackle wrinkles and pigment, we need a commitment of at least 4-6 treatments, all of which will be determined after we review your client consultation form and outline a plan for your skin. The Caviar Ageless Facial is a three layer exfoliation method that incorporates all the best elements of spa pampering with serious anti-aging treatment.

I have acne, what can you do for that?

We have some amazing estheticians with extensive knowledge and personal experience with breakouts and acne. They would love to get their hands on you. We are able to effectively treat Acne Grades 1-3 and can help minimize an Acne Grade 3 (what are acne grades?). Acne caused by hormones is somewhat treatable with esthetics services but Acne Grade 4 will be referred out to a dermatologist. There a lot of different treatment plans for acne and an esthetician is a great place to start when it comes to exploring treatment options. The Pure Sands Facial, Ultrasonic + BHA will address your pore congestion, remove excess oil, moisturize correctly, and reduce inflammation. It is the best place to start when dealing with acne.

I am getting married and want to look my best, can I get a facial?

Yes! We love pampering brides. Here are a few things to know about getting a facial before your wedding.

We can not cure acne two days before your wedding. You need to come to us 9 months in advance for a treatment plan.

Please do not get a facial a day before your wedding! We'll do it but we hate taking that risk.

The Enzyme Treatment with a facial is excellent for an extra glow on your special day but we really recommend either a Dermaplane Facial or a Ultrasonic Treatment 7 to 10 days before your big day.

If you already have problem skin, a facial is not the best option before your wedding. At that point, we recommend sticking with what has worked best for you in the past.