Let’s be honest: back acne always shows up at the worst time. I’ve been a victim of this terrible affliction for a long time, and it always flares up when I finally have to wear that new summer swimsuit or that backless top. But what’s even worse is the aftermath – the scars, the pigmentation and worst of all, the little sunken holes (atrophic scars).
When I say I’ve tried everything to get rid of this ailment, I mean everything. I started washing my hair before the rest of my body so the conditioner does not clog my pores, salicylic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid – you name it, I’ve probably done it. And nothing worked until I was introduced to the weird world of back facials or bacials.
What’s Is A Bacial?
A bacial or a back facial, is exactly like a facial but focuses on the back. The process combines deep cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, and hydration to tackle acne, dry skin, oiliness and scars. It usually starts with a thorough cleanse, followed by steam to open up the pores, making it easier for the aesthetician to perform extractions. This process removes black and whiteheads and other impurities contributing to acne.
After the extractions, a customised mask is applied to soothe and hydrate the skin. The treatment concludes with a moisturiser to lock in the benefits and protect the skin. There are different types of these depending on your concerns: some include microdermabrasion (for the pigmentation), high-frequency treatments (to kill bacteria) or oxygen infusion (to reduce inflammation).
Should You Get One?
Not everyone needs one, but if you suffer from any of the concerns below, getting one would certainly help.
Acne Prone Skin: With acne being a common skin condition, back facials offer a specialised solution for those battling backne. It’s an effective way to clear up the troublesome and often painful pustules that mar your skin’s appearance; it also works well for blackheads.
Dry Skin: Those struggling with dry skin can benefit significantly from a bacial. We often neglect the back simply because it’s hard to reach and not always visible. A bacial hydrates and nourishes, providing the moisture your skin desperately needs.
Oily Skin: If your skin is super oily, leading to breakouts or a constant sheen, a bacial can help balance your skin’s oil production, leaving it feeling refreshed and blackhead free.
Acne Scars/Pigmentation: There are many different types of bacials – many of them have an extra step like microdermabrasion that works to reduce the visibility of your scars.
What to Expect During Your Bacial?
Your session will begin with a one-on-one consultation to pinpoint your skin concerns. From there, you’re treated to a personalised experience that includes:
- Steam and Cleanse: This initial step softens the skin and prepares it for what’s next, removing surface oil, dirt, and debris.
- Skin Analysis: Your aesthetician assesses your skin type and concerns, tailoring the treatment to your needs.
- Exfoliation: Depending on your skin’s condition, a mechanical or chemical exfoliant is used to slough away dead skin cells, promoting smoother skin and preventing future breakouts.
- Extractions: If necessary, this step clears clogged or impacted pores.
- Customised Mask: A mask is applied to address specific issues like acne, dryness, or oiliness, leaving the skin soothed and balanced.
- Finishing Touches: The bacial concludes with the application of a serum and moisturizer to nourish and protect your skin.
Aftercare
Post-treatment, you’ll be armed with a regimen to maintain that hard-won radiance. This includes recommendations for moisturisers and cleansers to keep your skin in tip-top shape and advice on products containing AHAs or BHAs if needed to tackle specific concerns.
A bacial isn’t just about treating what’s already there, it’s about giving your back the attention it deserves, preventing future issues, and ensuring your skin is as healthy and confident as you are. Whether you’re battling acne, dryness, oiliness, or need a little pampering, this treatment is a step towards embracing the skin you’re in all the way around.
Featured Images: Unsplash