I sold an article this week on facials and it got me thinking: I should share what I learned with you. After all, that’s why I’m here. Without scooping myself, let me give you the gist and why you should care.

You already know (say you do–say it’s true!) that taking time to take care of yourself equips you to better take care of the rest of the world. And I’m talking here equally to EVERYBODY. In this hurry-it-up world, taking time out for you is key to your overall health.

An important way to do this is to care for your body. Take your face, for example. It’s your window to the world. It’s what opens up and lets people into your heart and your soul–those really important parts that matter. And that’s a big job, is it not? We need to take care of it and only after writing this article am I more convinced than ever that facials ARE NOT primping, but necessary maintenance like getting your annual physical, getting your teeth clean, getting your hair did, and getting regular massages. (Not primping either, just like changing your car oil is not primping. We often treat our cars better than our bodies.)

Here’s why facials are so important. You may spend the day with your “parent face” on, which may involve crinkly forehead lines (if you have toddlers or teens), or your beach squint, which definitely involves crow’s feet. We tense our facial muscles much of the day and don’t even realize we’re doing it. This is especially important as you age because of the shift in cell turnover after 30. At that point, skin stops producing collagen and we can start to look droopy. Nobody wants droopy. High end products and facial massage helps lift that droop by bringing the hyaluronic acid back to the surface. We want that. That’s what gives you that natural, youthful plump look so many of us seek.

Where to go? you ask. All estheticians are not created equal. In fact, of all the professionals I listed above, I think they’re the hardest to find in any given geographical area. It took me 20 years of living in LA to find one I loved. And then we moved.

You want an esthetician who uses high end products (but doesn’t push them on you while you’re trying to relax under cozy sheets. So annoying.) Look for someone who gives you samples after to try and lets you decide whether or not you’re interested. Also, you want someone who balances extractions with massage so you can not only have your pores clean, but can get those facial muscles relaxed as well. Some of them get really obsessed with extractions. I’ve literally had people leaning over me say, “Ooooo, that was a good one!” when they extract a blackhead. TMI. Just not something I’m wanting to know in that moment. Look for someone who does arm and hand massage while a mask is setting, instead of leaving the room. This not only feels more relaxing, but increases all that circulation so blood comes to your face and brings the hyaluronic acid along for the ride.

Be your own advocate and tell the esthetician what you want. If you like quiet, tell them before and after talking only. If your skin is sensitive, discuss this before your facial starts, as it may dictate the products the esthetician chooses. If extractions bother you, tell them to focus on massage. Find someone with a good touch and an atmosphere you love. Go monthly and work your way up to more advanced treatments once you’ve developed a trust with the process and with the professional.

Your skin will thank you. You’ll feel healthy. And once you take care of beautiful you, you will have so much more energy to take care of all those other items on your list.

(If you live in Redding, and want a recommendation, I have a few I love. Message me privately at my gmail: jamieweilwrites@gmail.com).