Cleansing is one of the most important and enjoyable parts of a facial for both the esthetician and the client. While many practitioners now use disposable bibs, I still appreciate a classic towel wrap. I also avoid hot towels. Heat causes vasodilation, meaning it temporarily widens blood vessels and increases blood flow to the skin, which can make capillaries more reactive something I prefer to avoid before performing an hour-long facial massage. Massage itself already increases circulation through mechanical stimulation, so additional heat is not necessary. Excessive heat can also disrupt the skin barrier and may affect the balance of the skin microbiome, which prefers a relatively stable environment. After facials, some people experience breakouts that are often described as “purging.” In many cases, these reactions are related to irritation, heat, or aggressive treatments rather than the facial itself. By minimizing heat and focusing on gentle cleansing and massage, the skin can of...