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Facials are anything but overrated, and a bi-annual or, if you’re lucky, quarterly indulgence is the key to healthy skin. A licensed aesthetician has the power to work wonders and possibly take years off your appearance. Performing an at home is a money-saving alternative to a pricey salon visit, but nothing beats the work of a professional and the atmosphere of a friendly salon. It’s not only about the cleansing aspect, it’s about the experience you will get at these local D.C. salons.

BrowBeat Beauty was founded by Willie Acklin, a San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology graduate. Not your typical facial destination, and no luxurious spa retreat, BrowBeat is located in a tasteful street-level apartment in Columbia Heights. However, don’t judge a book by its cover because the home-based business is a hit among those who have discovered the hidden treasure. A facial at BrowBeat will leave skin looking and feeling amazing for weeks to come. Among the facial selections are vitamin C, anti-aging, acne and exfoliation treatments. For those men interested, there is a specially designed facial to fit male skin care needs. The basic facial offered is the purifying facial, followed by a customized mask. It’s 50 minutes and $70.

In the center of the constant downtown-D.C. action, Celadon is an unexpected retreat. The spa allows those interested to purchase a facial series deal, which includes six visits. Facials range from $80 to $170. You can personalize any treatment with a selection of add ons such as paraffin gloves. There are three skilled estheticians on location and, word on the street is, the 90-minute ultimate facial is worth every penny.

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Tucked away in a neighborhood just blocks from Dupont Circle, from the outside Paris Alexander looks like an ordinary townhome, but on the inside it is a full-service spa. The staff recommends an examination and skin analysis prior to services to guarantee clients choose the correct facial treatment to suite individual skin types. An express, 30-minute facial is just $40. The Parisian Classic, which includes microdermabrasion, can cost up to $160. The spa also offers teen facials. For convenience, appointments may be booked online.

Toka Salon is filled with the who’s who of Washington. The modern salon is lavish, yet welcoming to all. Enjoy more than 10 facial treatment options, including peels, eye care and deep pore cleaning. Speak with a specialist to ensure that you are choosing the correct treatment for your needs and skin tone. Prices vary by facial and location, so call ahead for a thorough explanation of costs and services. Toka has two locations in DC, Georgetown and Penn Quarter, as well as a location in Alexandria. The salon opens early and closes late, working around the crowded schedules of clients.

TuSava is a tranquil body and skin care parlor in Adams Morgan away from the craziness and noise of the always-booming strip. It offers six unique facial choices. They are all guaranteed to be thorough, and specialists are known to throw in a little skin care advice. A standout-facial is the 24-karat gold treatment that embodies a formula of gold flakes in a collagen mask. TuSava often offers discounts when you make your appointment, such as a signature massage and deep-cleansing facial package, so it is smart to call ahead and inquire about any promotions.

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