Friends often ask me where they should go for a facial and I always tell them the better option is to see a dermatologist instead. This is regardless of whether they’ve got big skin concerns such as spots/acne or they’re just looking to improve the look and health of their skin generally.
There’s no doubt a facial can be relaxing and temporarily improve the appearance of your skin but a dermatologist or cosmetic doctor can advise you on how to improve your skin over the long term and prescribe the right products that will help you achieve your skin goals.
Basically, skincare can be divided up into three groups:

Products that are readily available to buy off the shelf from chemists, department stores etc.
Ranges that can only be sold through clinics and specialist outlets. Prescription strength items you need to get from a doctor.

The addition of products into your routine from the last two groups can make all the difference to your skin but, of course, you need expert advice on which ones to use and how best to use them.

I recently went to see Dr Sarah Tonks at Omniya for a skincare refresh and, even though I’m pretty well educated about which skincare ingredients I should be using for my skin type and skin aims, I found it really helpful. For anyone who isn’t studying Advanced Skin Science and reads dermatology journals, I’d describe an appointment with Dr Tonks as invaluable. She’ll be able to tailor a routine for you ...