
There's nothing like indulging in a facial. Your complexion actually glows, and it's hard to believe that your skin can really be that soft. Unfortunately, getting a professional facial done on the regular can get expensive fast. What's a beauty-lover to do?
The answer: a next-level DIY facial. We talked to Kory Keith, spa director at The Ritz-Carlton in Los Angeles, for her expert tips on getting the best at-home facial of your life. “Every facial should include cleansing, exfoliation and hydrating, and for best results should be performed once a week,” she says. Follow these tips, and prepare to get your glow on.
Step one: Cleanse.

You have to start off with a blank canvas. "Use a cleanser to free your face of makeup, dirt and pollution. For a complete facial, you need to get rid of surface debris to allow products to penetrate easily," advises Kory.
Step two: Exfoliate.

Face feeling dry and rough? It's time to exfoliate — but not all exfoliators are created equal. "Choose a gentle buff or an enzyme peel to slough off dead skin cells, unclog pores and improve texture," says Kory. "Don’t rub skin raw — a physical exfoliant (like a textured scrub) will work after two to three minutes."
If you need more gentle exfoliation, try a chemical exfoliator. "An enzyme peel is best left on for about 10 minutes," says Kory. "Eminence Organic skin care line has great options like their Yam & Pumpkin Peel ($46, DermStore), which is one of our best-sellers."
Step 3: Steam.

No, you don't need a special tool for this vital step. "This step opens the pores to release impurities and toxins that build up on the surface of your skin," says Kory. And doing it at home is super-easy. "Run a washcloth under hot water, wring it out and drape it over your face for a few minutes. You can also boil water and remove from the stove, position your face about eight inches over the water, and place a towel over your head to capture the steam. Add an essential oil like lavender or eucalyptus to the water for added aromatherapy benefits."
Step 4: Mask.

"Choose a mask that addresses your skin needs," Kory advises. "You can find products that will treat most concerns." And masking properly? Let's just say it's the perfect way to spend a weekend. "Apply the mask and relax for 15-20 minutes," Kory says. "Place a couple of chilled cucumber slices over your eyes, take deep breaths, and let go of stress."
So what are her ultimate at-home mask picks? "For a quick boost to the complexion, choose a revitalizing treatment like the Skin Radiance mask from ESPA. You should consider a clarifying clay mask if you have oily or acne prone skin, or a collagen boosting mask to help treat the signs of aging."
Step 5: Hydrate.

Once you've cleansed, scrubbed, and masked your way to glow-y beauty, finish your DIY facial with a major dose of moisture. "Finish your treatment with a good moisturizer or a hydrating serum to help maintain a healthy skin barrier and promote a radiant complexion," says Kory. "The Optimal Skin ProSerum from ESPA delivers major hydration and is suitable for all skin types."