If you’ve ever tried to explain to a client that not all facials are the same, you know how tricky it can be. With so many treatments out there, each promising glowier, healthier skin, understanding what sets them apart helps you give your clients the best experience possible (and helps them see you as the skincare expert you are). Let’s break down the most common types of facials and what makes each one special. 

  1. Classic or European Facial

The foundation of all facials, the classic facial is all about cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, massage, and masking. It’s perfect for first-timers or clients just looking to maintain balanced skin. While simple, it’s the blueprint that every other facial stems from. For estheticians, this service is where customization begins, swapping in different exfoliants or masks to tailor to each client’s needs. 

  1. Hydrating Facial

Dry, dehydrated skin is one of the most common concerns clients have, especially in colder months or post-travel. Hydrating facials focus on infusing moisture back into the skin through humectants like hyaluronic acid, aloe, or glycerin. These treatments help plump, soothe, and restore the barrier, leaving the skin looking fresh and dewy. Pro tip: Pair hydration facials with LED therapy for that extra glow factor. 

  1. Anti-Aging or Firming Facial

Targeting fine lines, loss of elasticity, and dullness, anti-aging facials usually include advanced ingredients like peptides, retinols, or vitamin C. Many estheticians also incorporate modalities like microcurrent or radio frequency for lifting and firming results. These facials are ideal for clients who want visible tightening without going under the needle, plus, they’re a great upsell when clients are ready to level up from their standard routine. 

  1. Acne or Clarifying Facial

This one’s all about detoxing and calming inflammation. Clarifying facials focus on deep cleansing, extractions, and antibacterial ingredients such as salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or sulfur. Blue LED light or high-frequency are often used to kill acne-causing bacteria and speed up healing. The key here is balance, you want to clear congestion without compromising the barrier. Educating your client on proper at-home care is just as important as the treatment itself. 

  1. Chemical Peel Facial

While technically a resurfacing treatment, chemical peels are often integrated into facial services for clients ready to take exfoliation up a notch. Using AHAs, BHAs, or TCA blends, peels help reduce hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and acne scarring. The beauty of peels is their customization, light lunchtime peels for maintenance or deeper ones for transformative results. Always make sure your client is prepped and understands post-care to avoid sensitivity or irritation. 

  1. LED Therapy or Light Facial

Facials that incorporate LED therapy are becoming client favorites because they’re non-invasive yet deliver serious results. Red light helps with collagen stimulation and healing, blue light targets acne, and near-infrared light reduces inflammation. This add-on is not only science-backed but also feels futuristic, a perfect balance of relaxation and innovation. 

  1. Specialty Facials (Microdermabrasion, Lymphatic Drainage, Oxygen, etc.)

Beyond the basics, there’s a growing list of advanced facials, microdermabrasion for resurfacing, oxygen facials for instant glow, and lymphatic drainage facials to depuff and detoxify. These are ideal for clients seeking next-level results or wanting a little luxury added to their experience. 

Final Thoughts 

Facials are no longer a one-size-fits-all service, they’re highly customizable, results-driven, and deeply therapeutic. The best estheticians don’t just offer facials—they curate experiences that meet their clients’ evolving skin needs. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your treatment menu, knowing the “why” behind each facial type helps you craft your signature style. 

If you want to dive deeper into how estheticians personalize treatments for different skin goals and client concerns, tune into our Esthetician Edit podcast episode all about creating customized facial experiences. We chat about how to choose the right facial for every client, building trust through education, and making your treatment room feel like a skin sanctuary. 

 Watch the full episode here:This Must-Have Facial Transformed my Skin from Skin Fitness