Frequently Asked Questions

Facials

Q: What can I expect at my facial appointment?

A: Get ready for a personalized journey to radiant skin and profound relaxation! Here’s a general overview of what you can expect during your facial appointment at Pure Touch Esthetics:

  1. Welcome & Skin Consult: Your appointment will begin with a friendly welcome and a consultation. We’ll discuss your skin concerns, goals, and any relevant health history. This is where we truly personalize your treatment to your unique needs, ensuring we achieve the best possible results. Completing the consultation form prior to your appointment is extremely valuable.
  2. Deep Cleanse & Skin Analysis: We’ll start with a gentle, yet effective cleanse to remove impurities and prepare your skin. Then, we’ll perform a detailed skin analysis to better understand its current condition and fine-tune your treatment plan for the day.
  3. Steam & Gentle Exfoliation: Relax under a warm, soothing steam that helps soften the skin. This is followed by a gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, revealing a fresher complexion beneath. Steam may also be cool or none at all – it depends on the condition of your skin.
  4. Extractions (if necessary): If needed, we’ll perform careful and gentle extractions to clear any congestion, ensuring your skin is clean and clear. I’ll always prioritize your comfort.
  5. Targeted Treatments & Nourishment: This is where the magic happens! Your facial will include specialized treatments tailored to your skin’s needs. This often involves nourishing masks, soothing serums, and luxurious eye and lip treatments, all designed to hydrate, balance, and rejuvenate your skin.
  6. Restorative Massage: Prepare for pure bliss! Some facials include deeply relaxing massages of the face, neck, shoulders, hands, and forearms. This isn’t just for circulation; it’s designed to melt away stress and enhance your overall sense of well-being, connecting mind and body.
  7. Final Touches & Homecare Advice: We’ll complete your facial with a hydrating moisturizer and appropriate SPF. Before you leave, we’ll discuss your results and provide personalized recommendations for homecare, helping you extend that beautiful glow and relaxed feeling long after your appointment.

My goal is for you to leave not just with visibly radiant skin, but also feeling completely restored, balanced, and deeply peaceful.

Q: What can I do to prepare for my facial?

A: To help you get the most out of your Pure Touch Esthetics experience, here are a few simple tips for preparing for your facial:

  1. Arrive with a Clean Face (Optional but helpful): While I’ll thoroughly cleanse your skin at the beginning of your treatment, you’re welcome to arrive with a clean face, free of makeup.
  2. Avoid Certain Products: For about 5-7 days prior to your appointment, avoid using strong retinoids, exfoliants (like AHAs/BHAs), or any other potentially irritating active ingredients. This helps prevent over-exfoliation and sensitivity. If you’re unsure, feel free to ask me!
  3. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your facial. Hydrated skin responds better to treatments.
  4. Come as You Are: Wear comfortable clothing. We’ll provide a wrap or sheet for your comfort during the service.
  5. Be Ready to Relax: This is your time to unplug! Try to clear your mind and arrive ready to unwind.
  6. Be Prepared to Share: During your consultation, be ready to discuss any skin concerns, allergies, medications, or recent treatments you’ve had. This information is crucial for me to customize your facial safely and effectively. Please complete the consultation form prior to your appointment.
  7. Limit Sun Exposure (if possible): Heavy sun exposure or sunburn before a facial can make your skin sensitive and may require us to modify the treatment.

Following these simple steps will ensure your skin is in the best possible condition to receive the full benefits of your Pure Touch facial!

Q: How often should I do get a facial?

A: The ideal frequency for facials really depends on your individual skin type, current skin concerns, specific goals, and lifestyle.

As a general guideline, many clients benefit from a facial every 4-6 weeks. This timeframe aligns with your skin’s natural cell turnover cycle (approximately 28-40 days), allowing treatment of new cells as they emerge and maintain optimal skin health.  However, I understand that everyone’s skin and schedule are unique:

  1. For specific concerns: If you’re addressing particular issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, or severe dryness, a more frequent initial series of treatments might be recommended for you. Otherwise, every 4 weeks is great.
  2. For maintenance & relaxation: If your skin is generally healthy and you’re seeking ongoing maintenance, relaxation, and a boost, a facial every 6-8 weeks, or even seasonally (4 times a year), might be ideal.
  3. For special events: A facial a few days to a week before a big event can ensure your skin is absolutely glowing.

The best way to determine the perfect schedule for your skin is to discuss it with me during your consultation. We’ll assess your skin and create a personalized treatment plan tailored just for you!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Eyelash Extensions

Q: What are Eyelash Extensions? 

A: Eyelash extensions are individual synthetic, silk, or mink fibers that are meticulously applied one by one to your natural lashes using a medical-grade adhesive. They are designed to enhance the length, curl, fullness, and / or thickness of your natural lashes, giving you a beautiful, effortless look without the need for mascara.

Q: What types of eyelash extensions do you offer? 

A: We offer a range of styles to achieve your desired look:

  • Classic Lashes: A natural enhancement, where one individual extension is applied to one natural lash. Perfect for adding length and a subtle boost.

  • Hybrid Lashes: A blend of Classic and Volume lashes, offering a textured look that’s fuller than Classic but not as dense as full Volume.

  • During your consultation, I’ll help you choose the best style and curl to complement your eye shape and personal preference.

Q: How long does the application process take? 

A: The application time varies depending on the type of set you’re getting and the number of natural lashes you have.

  • Full Set: Anywhere from 2.5 to 3 hours.

  • Fills: Usually take between 60 to 90 minutes. We recommend you arrive well-rested, as you’ll be lying down with your eyes closed for the duration of the service. Many clients find it very relaxing and even fall asleep!

Q: Do eyelash extensions damage my natural lashes? 

A: No! When applied correctly by a certified and experienced lash artist using high-quality products, eyelash extensions should not damage your natural lashes. I’ll meticulously choose extensions that are the appropriate weight and length for your natural lash to ensure its health and integrity. Improper application (e.g., too heavy, poor isolation, using too much glue) or improper aftercare (e.g., picking, pulling) are what can cause damage.

Q: How long do eyelash extensions last? 

A: Eyelash extensions last until your natural lashes shed, which is part of your natural lash growth cycle (typically 60-90 days). As your natural lashes shed, the extensions attached to them will fall out. With proper aftercare, your extensions will look good for 2-3 weeks before needing a fill.

Q: What is a “fill” and how often do I need one? 

A: A fill (or touch-up) appointment is where I’ll replace any extensions that have shed with your natural lashes. We’ll also clean and refresh your existing extensions. We recommend getting a fill every 2-3 weeks to maintain a full and beautiful lash line. Waiting longer than 3 weeks may require you to book a full set again.

Q: How should I prepare for my eyelash extension appointment? 

A: To ensure the best possible adhesion and retention, please:

  • Arrive with clean lashes: Free of mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, or any other eye makeup. We will cleanse your lashes, but coming clean saves time.

  • Remove contact lenses: Please remove them before your appointment.

  • Avoid caffeine: For a few hours beforehand, as it can cause twitching.

  • Avoid curling your lashes: On the day of your appointment.

  •  Avoid getting your lashes wet for the first 24-48 hours after application for optimal curing of the adhesive.

Q: What is the aftercare for eyelash extensions? 

A: Proper aftercare is crucial for the longevity and health of your extensions and natural lashes:

  • Avoid water/steam for 24-48 hours: This allows the adhesive to fully cure.

  • Clean your lashes daily: Use an oil-free lash cleanser and a soft brush to remove makeup, oil, and debris. This is vital for hygiene and retention.

  • Brush daily: Gently brush your lashes with a clean spoolie brush to keep them neat and untangled.

  • Avoid oil-based products: Steer clear of oil-based cleansers, makeup removers, mascaras, and eyeliners, as oil breaks down the adhesive.

  • Be gentle: Avoid rubbing, tugging, or picking at your lashes.

  • Sleep on your back or side: Avoid sleeping face-down to prevent crushing your extensions. A silk pillowcase can also help.

  • Do not use an eyelash curler.

Q: Can I wear mascara or eyeliner with eyelash extensions? 

A: Mascara: It is generally not recommended to wear mascara on your lash extensions. Mascara, especially waterproof or oil-based formulas, can break down the adhesive and be very difficult to remove, leading to premature lash loss and poor hygiene. Extensions are designed to give you the look of mascara without needing it!

  • Eyeliner: You can wear eyeliner, but we recommend using oil-free liquid or gel eyeliners and applying them gently to avoid the lash line where the adhesive is. Avoid pencil or cream eyeliners as they often contain oils or waxes.

Q: Are allergic reactions common? What if I have one? 

A: True allergic reactions to eyelash extension adhesive (specifically the main ingredient, cyanoacrylate) are rare but can occur. Symptoms typically appear within 24-72 hours and can include redness, swelling, and itching of the eyelids. If you have very sensitive eyes or are concerned, we can perform a patch test a few days before your appointment. If you experience an allergic reaction, contact us immediately, and we recommend consulting a medical professional. Do not attempt to remove the lashes yourself, as this can cause damage. We will safely remove them for you.

Q: Can I get my lashes wet or swim with extensions? 

A: Yes, after the initial 24-48 hour curing period, you absolutely can! In fact, cleaning them regularly with a lash cleanser and water is essential. You can shower, swim, and exercise. Just be gentle and avoid direct strong streams of water on your face, and always pat them dry gently afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brow Shaping

Q: What is eyebrow shaping? 

A: Eyebrow shaping is the art of expertly sculpting your brows to perfectly complement your unique face shape, eye size, and desired aesthetic. It involves removing unwanted hair to create clean lines, define arches, and enhance your natural beauty. We offer both waxing and threading methods to achieve your ideal look.

 

Q: What’s the difference between waxing and threading? 

A: We offer both popular methods to suit your preference and skin type:

  • Waxing: This method uses warm, gentle wax to quickly remove hair from the root, providing a smooth finish. It’s efficient for removing larger areas of hair and gives a clean, defined line.

     

  • Threading: An ancient technique using a thin, twisted cotton thread to precisely roll over unwanted hairs, lifting them from the follicle. Threading offers exceptional precision, is often preferred for sensitive skin, and provides very sharp, clean lines without using chemicals.

Q: How should I prepare for my eyebrow shaping appointment? 

A: To ensure the best results and minimize sensitivity:

  • Let your brows grow: For at least 2-3 weeks (or longer, if possible) before your appointment. This allows enough hair for us to work with and achieve the best shape.

  • Avoid certain products: For 3-5 days prior, avoid using strong retinoids (Retin-A, tretinoin, etc.), chemical exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs), or products containing salicylic acid on or around your brow area, especially if you’re choosing waxing. These can make your skin more sensitive and prone to lifting.

     

  • Communicate: Please inform your esthetician during your consultation if you are using any medications (oral or topical) or skincare products that may affect skin sensitivity (e.g., Accutane, oral antibiotics). 

Q: What should I do after my eyebrow shaping appointment? 

A: For the first 24-48 hours after your appointment:

  • Avoid touching: Try not to touch your freshly shaped brows to prevent irritation or clogged pores.

  • Keep it clean: Avoid heavy makeup, excessive sweating, swimming, saunas, and direct sun exposure on the brow area.

     

  • Soothe: If you experience any redness or sensitivity, applying a cool compress or a soothing, fragrance-free gel (like aloe vera) can help.

     

  • Avoid harsh products: Continue to avoid strong exfoliants or retinoids on the brow area for a day or two.

Q: Can I get my eyebrows shaped if I’m using Accutane or strong retinoids? 

A: If you are currently taking Accutane, or have been on it within the last 6-12 months, waxing is not recommended due to extreme skin sensitivity and the high risk of skin lifting. Threading may be an option, but it’s crucial to inform your esthetician of all medications during your consultation so we can determine the safest method for you. Similarly, if you use topical retinoids or strong exfoliants, threading is generally a safer alternative to waxing.