Nestled in the back of Health Hut's skincare and lifestyle shop on College Street is a sweet and cozy room, home to Toronto's best natural facials. Here, Health Hut esthetician Jeronnie will nourish your skin with natural and effective products from Monastery and Province Apothecary.
Utilizing the techniques from both of these facial-forward brands, you can expect a bespoke experience that leaves your skin naturally lifted, plump and luminous.
Here, we're answering the most frequently asked questions about our services with Jeronnie.
1. What kind of results can I expect from a lymphatic drainage facial?
Both the Province Apothecary and Monastery Facials include comprehensive lymphatic massage, Jeronnie's hands truly don't leave your face and body for the entire facial.
The lymphatic system is a part of the body's immune system and is responsible for protection from illness-causing invaders, maintaining body fluid levels, absorbing digestive tract fats and removing cellular waste.
"When the lymph is stimulated by the consistent movement of fluid through a lymphatic drainage facial, your face will look less puffy, more radiant and you will feel amazing." - Jeronnie
A facial that includes a lymphatic massage will encourage blood flow and cellular regeneration making this a great option for those noticing dull, puffy or congested skin. Get ready to glow!
2. Are the Province Apothecary and Monastery Facials safe for my sensitive and reactive skin?
"Definitely! Even the most reactive flare-ups will receive a custom treatment that may include heat, natural active ingredients and manual techniques adjusted to your comfort level." - Jeronnie
Both Monastery and Province Apothecary were founded by women looking for effective and natural skincare to resolve common and complex skin issues. Julie, Province Apothecary's founder, made her first product to treat her ongoing eczema after finding no relief from eczema creams on the market, natural or otherwise. Now, the Healing Eczema Balm is used in facials for its incredibly hydrating properties, a secret step that gives the well-known after-facial glow.
Athena, the founder of Monastery, carefully chooses every ingredient in her products for their non-irritating qualities. If you're suffering from reactive skin, Monastery's Gold Botanical Oil Serum will give your skin relief with a super dose of vitamin K (used to fight off the p.acne bacteria and speed up cell renewal) and ximenynic acid that will target inflammation and redness.
Both founders are active estheticians, continuing to work directly with the skin. Jeronnie, our in-house esthetician has been trained in the techniques that both Julie and Athena use in their coveted facials. Every facial is a bespoke experience that will consider the sensitivity of your skin.
3. I have acne, what natural facial would you recommend?
"We now offer facials using Monastery's beautiful products, which allow me to spend more time on acne protocol. Overall, I recommend the longer facials if you want to have your cake and eat it too. In these facials, you'll get both results and a relaxing experience. I recommend either of the 75-minute facials, the Province Apothecary Cupping Facial or the Monastery Gua Sha Facial." - Jeronnie
The longer facials add either a traditional Gua Sha or cupping experience to the facial. The Gua Sha stimulates the lymphatic system encouraging clear skin with a more even texture and tone, while cupping helps to clear around a breakout by increasing the circulation.
Both of these techniques are extremely effective and give a stimulating treatment. For that reason, they are not recommended if you are experiencing any of the following conditions: inflamed, irritated or damaged skin, broken capillaries, moles, skin tags, warts, severe acne, eczema, psoriasis, sores, undiagnosed lumps, melanoma, cancer or current use of blood thinners.
4. What is a non-intrusive facial?
A non-intrusive facial doesn't include extractions, rather it encourages the body's own cleansing and healing processes to clear the skin.
"You can expect to experience gentle techniques and soothing ingredient properties leaving your skin feeling calm and radiant." - Jeronnie
5. It's my first facial, what can I expect?
"For a first-time facial, you can expect to feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Your skincare concerns and goals will inform the techniques and products I use, including the highest quality oils, toners and moisturizers from lotions to healing balms. Not to mention our family of facial tools that enhance your skin care goals and experience!" -Jeronnie
6. How can I prepare for my facial?
"Before a facial, it's better to prepare any facial-related questions or concerns, especially if it is your first time and you are wanting to know what we can work on together for your treatment plan. You don’t have to have a plan, you're welcome to come just as you are and enjoy the experience." - Jeronnie
Best practices before your facial:
Have a good snack – Skin rejuvenation can be a lot of work for the body and you can feel a positive increase in your metabolism. Have a meal before and maybe plan to snack soon after your visit.
Nature calls – Using the restroom beforehand will allow your body to rest throughout the facial and avoid any unnecessary interruptions.
Take your time – If you can, have a soft plan for the rest of your day and spend a few minutes after your facial, while still on the table, to allow your body to ease out of its relaxed state. This helps you retain the treatment and prevents feeling light-headed.
Fresh Face - Lastly, if you are able to arrive with clean skin (no makeup) and give yourself a few minutes before your appointment to use the restroom and/or consult together, it will prevent time loss from your facial.