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What is a Back Facial?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A back facial is a skin treatment which is formulated specifically for the back. Some spas refer to a back facial as a “bacial.” Back facials utilize many of the techniques used in skin treatments for the face, and they are supposed to clarify and soften the skin of the back while providing a deep moisturizing treatment which will leave the client with a healthy, glowing back. Back facials for both men and women are available, in a wide range of formulations which target specific skin types or issues such as clogged pores and acne on the back.

People often have trouble maintaining a skin care regimen for their backs since the back is notoriously hard to reach. With the assistance of back scrubbing shower tools, most people can keep their backs clean, reducing clogged pores and other skin problems, but it can be hard to moisturize the back or to treat dry skin and other irritating and sometimes unsightly conditions. While a back facial might sound slightly silly, this spa treatment can actually be quite beneficial, especially for people who spend a lot of time in low-backed clothing or swimsuits.

Some people get back facials as a way to treat back acne.
Some people get back facials as a way to treat back acne.

Typically, a back facial starts with a deep steaming which is designed to open the pores and soften the skin. An aesthetician may use various treatments such as an exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin from the back, and he or she may also perform extractions on clogged pores. After steaming and exfoliation, the back can be covered in a rich moisturizing mask, and some aestheticians also offer massage to release tension in the back.

It can be difficult for a person to apply lotion to her own back.
It can be difficult for a person to apply lotion to her own back.

Skin treatments such as glycolic peels and dermabrasion are also available for the back, depending on your skin type and any skin issues which you may be experiencing. Spa staff are usually happy to recommend various treatments for you, and they should also be able to inform you about ingredients used in back facial treatments. You should also disclose any allergies to the spa staff, as peculiar ingredients can pop up in skincare treatments.

Receiving a back facial typically leaves the client with a healthy, glowing back.
Receiving a back facial typically leaves the client with a healthy, glowing back.

Back facials are not recommended for pregnant women, since clients must lie on their stomachs to receive a back facial. The duration of a back facial can vary widely, depending on which treatments you select and the spa; if timing is an issue, be sure to inform spa staff when you book. As with any sort of spa appointment, it is a good idea to arrive early so that you have plenty of time to fill out paperwork, change into a spa robe, and relax for your appointment.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a BeautyAnswered researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a BeautyAnswered researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

yumdelish

A back facial done professionally sounds a hundred per cent better than the DIY attempts I used to try with my older sister.

She'd slap a face pack onto my back and I'd scream as the cold liquid hit me. Then I had to stay still for a long time until it hardened and she could wash it off! Overall it wasn't very relaxing.

angelBraids

@Windchime - You'd be better off checking if a salon would do both in one session. I've never had to remove back hair but I have had my legs waxed. It felt quite sore afterwards, so you may not really enjoy being touched in that area for a while.

Windchime

@stolaf23 - This sounds good to me too. I'm thinking of trying it but I also want to give back waxing a go. I'm tired of feeling self conscious about the hair in that area.

Does anyone know if the two can be done at the same time?

stolaf23

It sounds weird, but I like the idea of a back facial, it would help keep skin smooth and clean and sounds like in some ways it might also feel similar to a really low-impact massage.

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    • Some people get back facials as a way to treat back acne.
      By: AustralisPhotography
      Some people get back facials as a way to treat back acne.
    • It can be difficult for a person to apply lotion to her own back.
      By: Africa Studio
      It can be difficult for a person to apply lotion to her own back.
    • Receiving a back facial typically leaves the client with a healthy, glowing back.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Receiving a back facial typically leaves the client with a healthy, glowing back.
    • Pregnant women may have difficulty receiving a back facial because they must remain on their side instead of resting on their stomach.
      By: Gabriel Blaj
      Pregnant women may have difficulty receiving a back facial because they must remain on their side instead of resting on their stomach.
    • Many of the same treatments use on the face, including dermabrasion an chemical peels, may be applied to the back.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Many of the same treatments use on the face, including dermabrasion an chemical peels, may be applied to the back.