It’s so true, isn’t it? Beauty really does come from within. Physical aesthetics pale in comparison to the beauty found at the center of who a person is. You can’t create it, you can’t change it, and you certainly can’t fake it.

Unfortunately, traditional concepts of beauty have been so narrowly defined that too many women are left feeling unsure if they’ll ever measure up to the perceived standard. The result is a never ending chase for something we actually already have.

Although true beauty can’t be manipulated, there is a multi billion dollar beauty industry at our disposal should we wish to tweak or maintain our physical attributes… So why not?

Facials are my absolute favorite beauty treatment. Partly for their obvious anti-aging benefits, and partly because they feel like adult only mini-vacations. But with so many choices out there, I wanted to share my favorite types of facials, and my favorite place to get them here in New England.

MacMed Medical Spa

For over 13 years I’ve been a loyal client of the fabulous Brittany MacDonald at MacMed Medical Spa and Salon. Besides being a stunning beauty herself (inside and out) Brittany has a kind of star power that is incredibly attractive; I’m talking stalker worthy. Her ability to connect with her clients has earned her a reputation as one of the most sought after aestheticians in the area. Well, that and her passion and extensive knowledge of the beauty industry.

The spa itself offers a wide range of services from your basics like nails, hair, tanning, makeup, and eyelash extensions, to the latest in medical spa technology like laser hair removal, skin resurfacing lasers, injectables, and so much more! Since Brittany books out months in advance I should mention that MacMed is incredibly particular about their aestheticians so you really can’t go wrong with whoever you book with.

If you don’t live local, I suggest finding a certified medical spa if you are looking for more than just a pampering facial. You will also want to find an aesthetician who you connect with and is passionate about what they do.

My Favorite Facials

Each of the facials I’ve listed can be done alone or paired together depending on your particular needs and goals. Since everyone is so different, I suggest booking a general facial then discussing a plan with your aesthetician after they’ve had a chance to assess your skin.

One of the perks of developing a relationship with Brittany is that she knows my skin, what it can handle, and what kind of results I’m looking for. In general, we don’t even discuss what she’s going to do; I just plop down and she gets to work! The only information she really needs is whether or not I have an upcoming event. This is always important for your aesthetician to know because some services can leave your skin irritated for a couple days.

Personally, since I don’t have many chances to get out for a facial with my crazy schedule, I have her go all out and do all my favorites at once; a mega facial. But, that’s not for everyone! Brittany is a pro at adjusting the intensity of each service so they can safely work together. In general, these services are booked separately.

• Hydrafacial: Considered the “new generation of microdermabrasion”, this facial is like a power-washing for your face. A dual action wand sucks dirt, blackheads, whiteheads, and any other impurities out of your pores, then replenishes your skin with vitamins and antioxidant infused water. Brittany calls it, the vortex!

• Dermal Blading: This one is my favorite resurfacing facial. The thought of a blade on your face can be unsettling, but they actually use what’s called a “butter blade” so it’s not quite as sharp as you would think. The blade is used to manually lift dead skin cells and peach fuzz off your face. The result is perfectly smooth, glowing skin. I also love how my makeup just glides on for weeks after.

  

  

  I’m not gonna lie, you kinda feel like a dude getting a shave, but whatever.

• Derma Needling: This one is my favorite anti-aging facial. Here, little needles are used to create tiny superficial holes in your skin causing temporary inflammation which promotes healing, and collagen and elastin production. You can think of it as an alternative to a tightening fraxel laser. Obviously lasers produce amazing results too, but there’s virtually no downtime for derma needling, which I love.

  

  

  The second component to this facial is the application of “growth factor serum”. This magic potion mimics healthy skin cells in the skin. The idea is to apply the serum while the skin is open from the needling.

  

  The result is plump, younger looking skin!

There’s no downtime for the hydrafacial or the dermal blading, but my skin was a little pink for a few hours after the derma needling. However, the morning after my mega facial, my skin was plump, smooth, and happy!

A big thank you to Brittany and MacMed Spa for providing the best facials in New England!