Facials at the Spa?

OK-- so this is the first time we've had some OBC's to play with. My husband not at all interested in spa, but I certainly am (though would/could not without the "freebie" aspect). I've had massage before and was in 7th heaven. (Am anyway on Regent ships.)

I've never had a facial and not sure what it's like, though I've read the descriptions and I hear that people love them.

So: Are they really as yummy as a full massage? Why are they so popular?

Also: There are so many different kinds listed. How in the world does one choose? E.g. there's one listed as being for "sensitive skin," which supposedly "reduces irritation and redness." What?! Does a person's face get all red and irritated from facials??

In short, I'd like to get something scheduled in advance, but not sure what to choose. Any help much appreciated. (Oh, boy-- such a "problem"!)

OK-- so this is the first time we've had some OBC's to play with. My husband not at all interested in spa, but I certainly am (though would/could not without the "freebie" aspect). I've had massage before and was in 7th heaven. (Am anyway on Regent ships.)

I've never had a facial and not sure what it's like, though I've read the descriptions and I hear that people love them.

So: Are they really as yummy as a full massage? Why are they so popular?

Also: There are so many different kinds listed. How in the world does one choose? E.g. there's one listed as being for "sensitive skin," which supposedly "reduces irritation and redness." What?! Does a person's face get all red and irritated from facials??

In short, I'd like to get something scheduled in advance, but not sure what to choose. Any help much appreciated. (Oh, boy-- such a "problem"!)

Poss, I did this last time, and it was indeed yummy. Expensive, but when you have the OBC to burn, why not? I talked to reception first, and asked them about choosing the right treatment. They said that the technician would do an analysis and make a recommendation, but that I could choose one to book as well. I chose one that I thought suited my skin, I think they call it Rejuvenation and Hydration. My skin tends to be dry.

When it came to the time, the girl in fact recommended that specific facial to me. You lie down, and she basically cleanses your face and anoints it with a series of lovely lotions. It's like getting a massage for your face and neck.

As for the irritation and redness, I don't know, but I'm thinking that that one perhaps is designed to calm the skin, especially if there's roseacea present. Or perhaps it's for younger skin where there's breakouts involved, although I can't see that many onboard the typical Regent ship would fit that category.

E.g. there's one listed as being for "sensitive skin," which supposedly "reduces irritation and redness." What?! Does a person's face get all red and irritated from facials??

I am the candidate for that type. My skin is extra sensitive and gets irritated by anything that touches it (including my own hair). The claim is it will help my skin and that the product they use will not only be non reactive to my skin but comfort/soothe it as well.

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Looking forward to your report of your facial. I have found Canyon Ranch overpriced and over-hyped and their products mediocre at best. It is one way to use OBCs -- but we have recently decided to purchase overpriced items that we do not need at the Boutique. At least they are are good as gifts.:confused:

Thanks to all 3 of you for responding-- and I'm sorry that that didn't get said sooner; I'd forgotten I'd queried until I saw the other post about Canyon Ranch.

I don't know why (I guess bec. I have a tendency to worry), but the red skin/irritation possibility puts me off, so I booked a hot stone massage -- which I adore and can't anywhere near afford unless someone else is footing the bill. The couple of other stone massages that I've had have been to swoon for, so I'm hoping that with the sky-high prices, Canyon Ranch will at least be comparable.

And I would love to have a facial some day. We shall see.

Again, thanks.

I have had a lot of facials before, including onboard. Some have made me very red and irritated. But the one they have a canyon ranch that was great was the oxygen facial. It was really nice.

And as I said before, my Revitalizing Hydration Facial was very soothing and nourishing, not abrasive or irritating at all.

I don't know why (I guess bec. I have a tendency to worry), but the red skin/irritation possibility puts me off

Unless you have had bad experiences with standard makeup, moisturizers, cleaners and such in the past... then you shouldn't have to worry about irritiation. Many people (especially fair skinned red heads) are allergic to these things. I can't use anything with fragrances or chemicals in it, I have to be very careful when buying products. This is why hypo-allergenic products and brands exist (like Almay or Aveeno)... but even then I'm often still reactive to those.

I just got off the June 20 Alaska sailing and had the oxygen facial (recommended to me by the specialist). It was fabulous and I noticed a difference immediately after. She also gave me a mini neck and arm/hand massage. Wonderful! I had the 50 minute one which was $289 or your could get the 80 minute I believe for $311. Pricey yes but when I notice and feel a difference, it's was all worth it to me.

Barb

The prices seem insane, but it is what it is (brilliant statement).

So how long did this fabulous feeling last? (I feel the benefits of an exceptionally good massage for several hours. I.e. perhaps my body feels a longer effect, but my awareness of that magical deliciousness has never lasted more than half a day.)

Thanks for input.

Poss, the facial itself was so totally relaxing. My skin now feels like a baby's behind and of course had to buy a cleansing lotion which has a moisturizer that helps keep that smooth feeling. So yes, my skin still feels wonderful and can really tell the difference. How long I'll be able to tell the difference will be the question. She did tell me never to use soap on my face so maybe that will help too.

After the oxygen facial, I can tell a big improvement that last for a week to 10 days.

I would say that the fabulous feeling lasted a couple of days, but my skin felt less dry than normal for a few days longer. If I could get one of these here at home for, say, $50, I'd do it once a week! Ha ha.

hi,

I am not sure which ship you are booked on but a couple of thoughts

the beauty therapists do seem to be under a fair bit of pressure to sell products to you, after any facial they will give you a list of recommended products they would like you to instantly buy. if you have sensitive skin,I would be reluctant to invest inexpensive tubes and bottles of products until you see how your skin reacts after a few days.

on a recent extended mariner cruise, I was lucky enough to have two of the "tension" massages that concentrate on the back, neck and shoulders. I do a lot of computer work and these were the best massages I have ever had. the masseuse was a tiny Thai lady. I beg forgiveness for not remembering her name as I basically sleep walked out of each session.

for my money, or obc, much better value,

regards amanda