Results-driven facial treatments in Stafford, VA
Medical-Grade Facials
Customized facials designed to transform your skin health.
Medical-Grade Facials
Customized facials designed to transform your skin health.
What is a Medical-Grade Facial?
A medical-grade facial is not your average spa facial. It’s a results-driven treatment performed by licensed professionals using advanced techniques and clinical-grade products that penetrate deeper into the skin. These facials are designed to correct, protect, and enhance skin health while still giving you that post-treatment glow. Medical-grade facials address skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, texture, and dehydration at a cellular level.
Does Your Skin Need Some TLC?
Some of our favorite 60 minute facials here at Thistle, include:
- Signature Thistle Facial
- Beyond Botox Facial
- Post-Treatment Facial
- Seasonal Facials
Don’t have a full hour in your schedule for a facial? Don’t worry! Check out our 30 minute options, perfect to fit in during a lunch break or in between errands.
- Express Facial
- DiamondGlow Microdermabrasion
- Dermaplaning
Before Treatment
In preparation for your skin treatment, we recommend that you discontinue use of products containing retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) a week before treatment. Avoid sun exposure a week before treatment.
During Treatment
All of our hour (or more) facial experiences begin with a detailed skin analysis so we can tailor every step to your individual needs. From there, we start with a thorough cleanse before moving into extractions. Each full-length facial includes custom mask blends, paired with a combination of massage techniques for the face, neck, and décolleté. For those looking to boost scalp circulation and encourage hair growth, we may also incorporate a gentle head massage.
Depending on your needs, LED therapy can be added for additional collagen stimulation, acne reduction, or healing support. Every facial finishes with a nourishing serum, SPF, and a lip hydrator, so you leave the studio refreshed and ready to glow.
After Treatment
Your skin will look refreshed, hydrated, and glowing immediately after your facial. Depending on the type of treatment you receive, you may experience some mild redness, especially if extractions were performed, but this typically subsides within a few hours.
To maximize results, we recommend avoiding retinol, exfoliating products, or other strong active ingredients for 1 to 2 days, or until your skin feels back to baseline. Stick with gentle skincare and always apply SPF.
Makeup can be applied right away if needed, but many clients love leaving the studio bare-faced to show off their natural post-facial glow!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a facial “medical-grade”?
Medical-grade facials go beyond relaxation. They use advanced, clinical-strength products and techniques that are only available in a medical aesthetics setting. Each treatment is customized by a licensed esthetician or master esthetician to target your specific skin concerns while maintaining a luxurious experience.
Are facials safe for all skin types?
Yes! Each facial is customized and can be tailored to all skin types including acne-prone, sensitive, or melanin-rich skin. Your aesthetic provider will assess your skin and choose the safest, most effective products for your needs.
Will I purge after my facial?
Purging is possible. After a medical-grade facial, your skin may go through a short adjustment period where impurities that were trapped beneath the surface rise up. This can look like a few small breakouts or congestion in the days following treatment. Think of it as your skin’s way of “detoxing” and clearing itself out.
Not everyone experiences purging, and if you do, it’s usually temporary and resolves within a week. Your esthetician will also give you post-care instructions and recommend products to support your skin during the healing process.
Is there any downtime after a facial?
Most clients leave glowing and can return to their normal activities right away. If extractions are performed, you may experience mild redness for a few hours. We recommend avoiding retinol, exfoliants, or strong active ingredients for 1–2 days afterward.
Can I combine a facial with other treatments?
Absolutely! Many of our clients pair medical-grade facials with treatments like wrinkle relaxers, microneedling, DiamondGlow microdermabrasion, or Dermaplaning for a comprehensive approach to skin health. Your aesthetic provider can create a plan tailored to your goals.
How often should I get a facial?
We generally recommend every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain skin health and see consistent results. Think of it as a workout for your skin with consistency delivering the best transformation.
Which Skin Treatment is Best For You?
Start your aesthetic journey with a skin analysis! During this visit with a Master Esthetician/Esthetician, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and receive expert recommendations tailored to your skin concerns and long-term goals.