Brightening Facial
Las Cruces
A targeted 80-minute facial for dark spots, melasma, sun damage, and dull, uneven tone. Vitamin C, mandelic acid, niacinamide, and gentle resurfacing — layered to fade pigmentation without triggering more. Safe for every skin tone when matched with the right protocol. Performed by a licensed esthetician at Bare Cat LLC, our veteran-owned Las Cruces studio.
Book This ServiceWhat's Included
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Skin tone + history consult
We assess your tone, pigmentation pattern, sun history, and any prior reactions before choosing the actives. No one-size protocol.
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Layered cleanse + enzyme exfoliation
Oil-cleanse, gel-cleanse, fruit enzyme — preps the skin so the actives that follow penetrate effectively.
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Vitamin C + niacinamide infusion
Tyrosinase-inhibiting actives — they slow new pigment formation and brighten existing tone.
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Mandelic acid resurfacing
Gentle alpha-hydroxy that works without triggering post-inflammatory pigmentation in darker tones.
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Brightening mask + cooling globes
Locks in actives, calms redness, and reduces puffiness in one step.
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Mineral SPF before you leave
Non-negotiable. Pigment treatments without SPF are wasted money.
Service Details
- Service
- Brightening Facial
- Duration
- 80 minutes
- Price
- $100
- Series
- 3–6 sessions, 4 wks apart
- Location
- Las Cruces, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a brightening facial actually do?
It addresses pigmentation, not just dullness. The treatment uses tyrosinase-inhibiting actives (vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic acid) plus gentle resurfacing (mandelic or lactic acid) to fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and increase overall radiance.
How many sessions before I see results?
Most clients see meaningful change after 3 to 6 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart, paired with daily SPF and a vitamin C serum at home. Pigment is stubborn — it took years to form and won't disappear in one visit.
Will this help with melasma?
Yes, but melasma is hormonally driven and management is the realistic goal, not a permanent cure. The brightening facial fades existing pigment and slows recurrence. Daily mineral SPF and avoiding heat/sun is non-negotiable for keeping results.
Is the brightening facial safe for darker skin tones?
Yes. The protocol is adjusted for skin tone — mandelic acid is favored over more aggressive resurfacing for melanin-rich skin because it works without triggering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Always tell us your tone history and reaction patterns at the consult.
Can I use my at-home vitamin C with this facial?
Yes — encouraged. The facial accelerates results from a consistent at-home vitamin C and SPF routine. Pause retinoids and any other strong actives for 5 days before the appointment so we can layer cleanly during the treatment.
What's the difference between a brightening facial and a chemical peel?
The brightening facial is a layered treatment that includes mild acids; a chemical peel uses higher-strength acids for deeper resurfacing. Peels and facials should be spaced at least 2 weeks apart. We choose between them based on your pigmentation severity and goals.
Pair With
Chemical Peel
Deeper resurfacing — alternates with brightening facials in a treatment series.
$15+Dermaplaning
Add as the opening step — actives penetrate dramatically better on freshly dermaplaned skin.
$100Anti-Aging Facial
Brightening fades pigment; anti-aging addresses fine lines and firmness. Alternate them.