Tips on affordable skin care!

Let's be realistic - professional spa treatments can get expensive, especially in New York. Not everyone can afford monthly facials when a facial can cost upwards of $200 in some neighborhoods. So how is the average Josephine supposed to maintain their largest organ - their skin - in an effective and affordable way?

Tip #1: Break down the cost of professional treatments. Let's say, for example, that a facial costs $150.00. With a professional deep-cleaning and proper maintenance, the effects of a facial should last 4-6 weeks, on average. $150 / 6 = $25/week - which seems a much more acceptable price. It's all about perspective when it comes to these things - skincare is not a luxury. Basic facials with highly trained aestheticians are a great and relatively affordable resource.

Tip #2: Find specials! In the age of online deals and email promotions, you'll be sure to find discounts on services somewhere. Plus, many spas (especially in office-heavy neighborhoods) offer "lunchtime specials" which are often quick 30-45 minute previews to services like peels. (Shameless plug: Skintology, of course, offers a wide array of off-peak specials.) These specials are a great way to try certain services and experience the spa before committing to an expensive treatment. You can get a great feel for a place when you can see how they treat their discount-clients.

Tip #3: Once you find an aesthetician or spa you like, stick with it! Many spas offer loyalty discounts to their long-standing clients, or referral programs if you bring your friends. Besides the financial benefits, though, it's also useful for an aesthetician to have a comprehensive history of your skin and treatments. Every spa performs procedures slightly differently, and every aesthetician needs at least one visit from you before being able to determine exactly what you need.

Tip #4: Splurge on at-home skincare. Even with professional help, we can't emphasize the importance of maintaining an at-home skincare regimen enough! That glow you get right after a facial will subside within a couple of days, but you can prolong its purifying effects using cleansers, exfoliants, and moisturizers. Again, break down the cost of a reputable moisturizer by daily use - if one jar of expensive creme costs $65 but lasts you 6 months - you are literally only paying 35 cents a day! Plus, with a consistent at-home skincare regimen, you can push back your professional facials to about four months apart (depending on your skin's needs).

There you have it - skincare can get expensive, but it is much more necessary than many people think. I always break down skincare into two major categories: maintenance and reparation. Often times, you won't think of your skin until it's already in the reparation stage - and you're spending tons of cash just trying to find that one serum that actually reduces dark spots or fine lines. If you start maintaining your skin now, you'll save yourself a lot more stress later!