Listen & understand
Share your skin concerns, sensitivities and home routine. A consultation and close skin analysis guide the treatment and give you space to ask questions.
Eminence Organic Skin Care · Bankers Hill, San Diego
The Knotstop Signature Facial
Professional Eminence skincare, customized to your complexion. A thorough cleanse, carefully selected exfoliation and a treatment masque are complemented by facial massage and your choice of one included enhancement.
Our signature approach
Expert care, tailored to your complexion.
The Knotstop Signature Facial combines professional skincare with the comfort of a relaxing spa treatment. It is an excellent introduction to facials and a versatile choice for guests who want regular, personalized care.
Your esthetician begins with a consultation and skin analysis, considering your concerns, sensitivities and home routine. That assessment guides the exfoliation, masque, serums and finishing products used during your visit.
The treatment can be adapted for dryness, dehydration, dullness, uneven-looking texture or congestion. Your 50-minute facial includes extractions when appropriate and a choice of one enhancement, selected with your esthetician.
The experience
What happens during your facial
Expect thorough cleansing, considered product selection and time to relax. The following stages are adjusted to your skin throughout the appointment.
Cleanse & refine
Makeup removal and a double cleanse prepare the skin. Professional exfoliation is selected for your needs, with extractions performed when appropriate.
Treat & unwind
A customized Eminence masque and facial massage are paired with targeted skincare. Hand and arm massage adds a relaxing pause while your exfoliating treatment rests.
Finish & guide
Serum, eye and lip care, and moisturizer or SPF complete the facial. Leave with practical guidance about caring for your skin between appointments.
Your exfoliation may include the Mangosteen Lactic Pro Peel or another selected AHA treatment, depending on your skin’s tolerance and needs. Tell your esthetician if a product feels uncomfortable so the treatment can be adjusted.
Included with your facial
Your choice of one facial enhancement
The Knotstop Signature Facial includes one of the following enhancements. Your esthetician can help you choose an appropriate option.
Cool & replenish
Hydrating Eye Dew Serum Treatment
Our Hydrating Eye Dew Serum Treatment uses the original ToGoSpa Ice Water EYES gel masks. These cooling patches rest beneath the eyes, where hyaluronic acid, aloe and hydrolyzed collagen help replenish moisture and refresh the appearance of tired, puffy skin.
This is a lovely choice when the under-eye area feels dry or looks tired. Relax with shoulder and neck massage while the eye masks rest.
These hydrating eye treatments are available for purchase in the Spa Boutique.
The Knotstop Signature Facial and Men’s Urban Facial each include a choice of one of these three enhancements. Other paid enhancements are separate and depend on treatment compatibility; view the current facial menu or ask Guest Services.
Inside the ritual
The products behind your treatment
Eminence combines botanical ingredients with professional formulations for cleansing, exfoliation and targeted care. These are some of the products your esthetician may use during The Knotstop Signature Facial.
Cleanse & refresh
Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser
A milky gel cleanser with mangosteen and a Lactic Acid Complex, chosen to cleanse and help refine the look of surface texture.
How to use at home
- Mix a small amount of Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser with water in your hands.
- Massage gently over the face and neck, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
- Avoid broken or abraded skin.
- In the home facial below, choose Stone Crop Gel Wash on the day you use the Fizzofoliant.
Polish & smooth
Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant
This powder-to-foam exfoliant combines stone crop, microgreens, rice and adzuki flours to help polish the skin’s surface.
How to use at home
- Foam a small amount in a wet palm with a few drops of water.
- Massage lightly over the face, avoid the eye area, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
- Keep this as your only exfoliating step in the home facial below.
Refine & personalize
Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Concentrate
One of the treatment options your esthetician may select. Its mangosteen and Lactic Acid Complex support a smoother, more radiant-looking complexion.
How to use at home
- Apply 1–2 pumps of Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Concentrate to cleansed skin once or twice daily, as tolerated.
- Leave it on and follow with moisturizer.
- If you are following the Fizzofoliant home facial below, reserve this concentrate for another day.
Finish & illuminate
Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum
A finishing-serum option with vitamins C and E and botanically derived ferulic acid, formulated to help brighten the appearance of skin.
How to use at home
- Smooth 3–4 drops of Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum onto cleansed skin once or twice daily.
- Leave it on and follow with moisturizer.
- Use sunscreen as the final morning step.
Your first cleanse may use Stone Crop Cleansing Oil or Firm Skin Acai Cleanser. Your esthetician selects the booster serum, concentrate, masque and finishing products individually. The selection above illustrates the treatment; take-home products are purchased separately.
After your treatment
Refreshed skin, with care that continues at home.
You may notice smoother-feeling skin, more comfortable hydration and a brighter-looking complexion after your facial. Your esthetician will explain how the treatment addresses your concerns and what to continue at home.
A single facial does not permanently clear acne, remove pigmentation or reverse aging. Your response depends on your skin’s condition, the products selected and the care you continue at home.
For skin that feels dry or tight
Discuss moisture, comfort and your current routine so your esthetician can select appropriate treatment and finishing products.
For dullness or uneven texture
Selected exfoliation helps refine the feel of the skin’s surface. The approach should respect your tolerance rather than aim for the strongest sensation.
For congestion or occasional breakouts
Extractions are included as needed, not performed indiscriminately. Your esthetician assesses what is appropriate to address during the visit.
Before & after your visit
Prepare well. Care for your skin afterward.
Arrive with your usual skincare routine in mind, including any prescription products. These preparation and aftercare guidelines help keep your skin comfortable around the appointment.
Before your facial
- Keep cleansing gentle and avoid scrubs or additional exfoliation for at least 48 hours beforehand.
- Tell us about allergies, current irritation, retinol, prescription skincare and any recent peels, waxing or laser treatments. Contact us in advance to discuss appropriate spacing.
- If your skin is sunburned, broken or actively irritated, contact the spa before your appointment so we can discuss whether to adjust or reschedule.
- You are welcome to bring the names or photos of your current products. This makes home-care guidance more useful.
After your facial
- Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, and protect your skin with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
- Skip scrubs and additional exfoliation for at least 48 hours afterward, or longer if your esthetician recommends it.
- Avoid picking at your skin. Give freshly treated skin a break from excess heat, steam and intense exercise immediately after the visit.
- Ask when to resume retinol, exfoliating acids, hair removal and other active treatments. Follow guidance specific to the products used and your skin’s response.
Skincare between appointments
Your guide to a beautiful home-care routine
Daily care makes a difference to how your skin looks and feels between facials. Begin with cleansing, moisture and sun protection, then add treatments that serve a specific purpose.
Below is a general routine built around Eminence products, followed by a more complete facial you can enjoy at home. It is a starting point for balanced care; your esthetician can adjust it for your skin type, sensitivity and current treatments.
Use what works for you. You can follow these steps with products you already use and tolerate. The examples use Eminence, the brand used in The Knotstop Signature Facial. Substitute a suitable cleanser, serum, masque or moisturizer as needed; there is no need to replace an entire routine.
Morning care
Cleanse, hydrate and protect.
- Cleanse: Stone Crop Gel Wash is a gentle option. Use lukewarm water and your fingertips, then rinse and pat dry. Dilute a pea-sized amount with water, massage gently for 1–3 minutes and remove completely with a soft, damp cloth.
- Treat, if needed: Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum is an optional antioxidant serum for a brighter-looking complexion. A serum is an addition to your routine, not a requirement. Apply 3–4 drops to clean skin and leave on before moisturizer.
- Moisturize: Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator provides lightweight moisture. Choose a richer cream if your skin needs more comfort. Apply over the face and neck and leave on; use a little extra on drier areas.
- Protect: Finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Radiant Protection SPF Fluid SPF 30 is an Eminence option for combination to dry skin. Follow the sunscreen label and reapply as directed. Shake the fluid well, apply generously 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every two hours outdoors. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen for swimming or sweating.
Evening care
Remove the day. Restore moisture.
- Remove makeup and sunscreen: Stone Crop Cleansing Oil is an option when you need a first cleanse. Massage gently, add water as directed and rinse thoroughly. Work a small amount over the face and neck, add water to emulsify if desired, then rinse thoroughly.
- Cleanse as needed: Follow with Stone Crop Gel Wash if residue remains. A double cleanse is useful for makeup or heavier sunscreen; it need not become extra washing when your skin is already clean. Use the same pea-sized amount and gentle technique as your morning cleanse.
- Use your selected treatment: Continue the serum or prescribed skincare recommended for you. Avoid adding several new active products at once. Follow your own product’s directions and your clinician’s instructions for any prescribed treatment.
- Moisturize: Finish with your chosen moisturizer. If skin feels tight after cleansing, review the cleanser and moisturizer with your esthetician. Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator is a leave-on option for this step; spread it over the face and neck.
A complete facial at home
Set aside time for a more thorough treatment.
Use clean hands, a fresh towel and products your skin already tolerates. Choose a day when your skin is comfortable and has recovered from any recent professional treatment. Exfoliation is optional; a hydrating facial can be worthwhile without it.
Begin with a thorough cleanse
Eminence options: Stone Crop Cleansing Oil + Stone Crop Gel Wash
- Remove makeup and sunscreen first, using a separate eye-makeup remover if needed.
- Follow with the gel cleanser when a second cleanse is useful.
- Work with light fingertips rather than a cleansing brush, rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Your skin should feel clean and comfortable.
How to use this suggested product
- Start with a small amount of Stone Crop Cleansing Oil and massage gently over the face and neck.
- Add water to emulsify if desired, then rinse thoroughly.
- If a second cleanse is needed, dilute a pea-sized amount of Stone Crop Gel Wash with water in your hands.
- Massage lightly over the face and neck for 1–3 minutes, then remove fully with a soft, damp cloth.
- Use a separate eye-makeup remover when needed and avoid getting cleanser in your eyes.
Exfoliate only if your skin needs it
Eminence option: Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant
- Activate the powder with water according to the label, massage very lightly and rinse well, avoiding the eye area.
- Do not use it over inflamed breakouts, broken skin or sunburn.
- If you use retinol, exfoliating acids or prescription acne products, ask us whether this step belongs in your routine.
- Choose one exfoliating step.
- On this occasion, use a gentle cleanser rather than the Mangosteen resurfacing cleanser, and leave the resurfacing concentrate or other exfoliants for another day.
How to use this suggested product
- Shake a small amount of dry Fizzofoliant into a wet palm, add a few drops of water and rub your hands together until it foams.
- Massage gently over the face with circular fingertip movements, keeping clear of the eyes, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
- Rinse it off rather than leaving it on as a masque.
- Pressure should stay light; more friction will not improve the result.
Apply a hydrating masque
Eminence option: Stone Crop Masque
- Apply an even layer to cleansed skin, keeping it away from the eyes.
- Stone Crop Masque is a moisture-focused option when you want skin to feel softer and look refreshed.
- Follow the product’s directions for application and removal, then rinse gently without scrubbing.
- A masque does not need to tingle to be useful.
How to use this suggested product
- Blend a small amount of Stone Crop Masque with a few drops of water in your palm.
- Spread evenly over the face and, if desired, the neck and upper chest, avoiding the eyes.
- Leave for 5–10 minutes.
- Soften and remove gently with a lukewarm, damp cloth, then rinse away any remaining product.
- Keep your touch gentle rather than scrubbing.
Add your chosen serum
Eminence option: Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum
- After removing the masque, apply your serum as directed.
- This vitamin C and E formula is an option for antioxidant care and visible radiance.
- If your skin feels sensitive, skip active serums and move straight to a moisturizer you know agrees with your skin.
- You do not need to layer several serums.
How to use this suggested product
- For Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum, apply 3–4 drops to cleansed skin and leave it on.
- Follow with moisturizer.
- Eminence directs use once or twice daily; choose a schedule your skin tolerates and avoid introducing several new treatments together.
- If this serum is new to you, try it on a small area first.
Give the eye area gentle care
Optional addition: your usual eye cream or ToGoSpa Ice Water EYES
- Use an eye product you already tolerate, applying it gently without pulling the skin.
- If you prefer the eye masks used in our Hydrating Eye Dew Serum Treatment, follow the package directions and smooth in the remaining serum after removal.
- These are available in the Spa Boutique.
How to use this suggested product
- With clean hands, open the ToGoSpa package before handling other skincare products.
- Place the patches below the eyes, away from the lash line, and leave for 15–20 minutes.
- Remove them and gently massage in the remaining serum.
- Follow the directions on your own package if they differ.
- For an eye cream instead, follow that product’s amount and placement instructions.
Finish with moisturizer
Eminence option: Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator
- This lightweight gel-cream pairs a Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex with panthenol to help retain moisture.
- Smooth it over the face and neck; choose a richer moisturizer if your skin remains dry.
- If you enjoy facial massage, use very light strokes while the product provides slip.
- Avoid rubbing inflamed or tender areas.
How to use this suggested product
- Apply Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator over the face, neck and upper chest and leave it on.
- Use a little more on areas that feel dry.
- There is no rinse-off step.
- If this texture does not provide enough moisture for you, ask us about a richer finish rather than adding more exfoliation.
Apply sunscreen if it is daytime
Eminence option: Radiant Protection SPF Fluid SPF 30
- For combination to dry skin, this mineral sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 with a dewy finish.
- If you prefer a lighter or more matte feel, use another broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher that suits your skin.
- Apply and reapply according to its label, and use shade and protective clothing outdoors.
- For an evening facial, finish with your moisturizer and apply sunscreen the next morning.
How to use this suggested product
- Shake Radiant Protection SPF Fluid well.
- Dispense ¼–½ teaspoon to start, warm it between your hands and spread generously and evenly over the face, neck and chest.
- Add more as needed for complete coverage and allow it to absorb before makeup.
- Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every two hours outdoors.
- For swimming or sweating, use a sunscreen labeled water resistant and follow its directions.
Adjust the routine to your skin.
If your skin feels dry
Prioritize a comfortable cleanse, a hydrating masque and enough moisturizer. More scrubbing will not correct a lack of moisture. Your esthetician can help you decide whether to change product texture or reduce exfoliation.
If your skin is oily or combination
Use lighter moisturizing textures where they feel comfortable and give drier areas the moisture they need. Avoid repeatedly cleansing oily areas or skipping moisturizer altogether.
If your skin is sensitive
Introduce one new product at a time and test it on a small area before full-face use. Leave out optional exfoliation if your skin stings, feels irritated or is recovering from a treatment. Stop using a product that causes irritation.
Explore our facial collection
Other facials to consider
If you would like care centered on breakouts, clinical exfoliation or men’s skincare, explore these services. We can help you compare them with The Knotstop Signature Facial.
Care for breakout-prone skin
Clear Skin Facial
Explore this focused option when breakouts and clogged pores are your main priority and you want care centered on those concerns.
An introduction to Lira Clinical
The Red Carpet Treatment
Our introductory Lira Clinical treatment is the starting point for guests considering the spa’s clinical-strength corrective services.
Skincare for men
Men’s Urban Facial
A dedicated service for men, with customized Eminence care and attention to concerns such as shaving-related irritation, dryness and congestion.
Make care a regular ritual
Meet The KnotClub.
The skincare membership includes The Knotstop Signature Facial each month with one eligible enhancement choice, along with Member Rates and membership benefits. Explore the current plan for full details.
New to The Knotstop? Receive the applicable Member Rate on your first qualifying service, applied at checkout. Seasonal Facials and Couples Massage are excluded. Paid enhancements may carry an additional charge.
Time for body & skin
The Knotstop Spa Day
$214 for both services. Pair The Knotstop Signature Facial with a 60-minute Relaxation Massage or Muscle Relief Therapy Massage for a complete spa visit.
Receive the Member rate on both included services when they are received during the same visit, whether you purchase the Spa Day package or book the services individually. No membership is required.
Other services, longer sessions, and paid enhancements may require an additional payment. Master Therapist pricing is an additional $10 where applicable. Book both services in advance so we can coordinate your visit.
Before you book
Questions before your appointment
Should I choose this facial if I am unsure what my skin needs?
Yes. You do not need to diagnose your skin or choose every product in advance. Book The Knotstop Signature Facial and discuss your goals with your esthetician. If a more focused service would be a better fit, they can explain the options.
Can I arrive wearing makeup?
Yes. Makeup removal is included in the protocol. Arriving without heavy makeup can make the beginning of your visit simpler, but you do not need to arrive with freshly cleansed skin.
What should I tell you about my current skincare routine?
Tell your esthetician about retinol, prescription retinoids, acne treatments, exfoliating acids, allergies and products that have caused irritation. Mention recent waxing, peels, laser treatments or other facial procedures. Contact Guest Services before your visit if you need guidance about timing. Do not change prescribed skincare without advice from your prescribing clinician.
Can I book while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Please contact the spa before booking so we can review the products and enhancement choices individually. Organic ingredients do not make every treatment appropriate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Your esthetician can discuss the planned service, and your maternity care clinician can advise on any medical restrictions.
Should I book immediately before an important event?
Leave room to see how your skin responds, especially if this is your first facial or you expect extractions. Redness or sensitivity can occur after exfoliation and extractions. Contact Guest Services for help choosing an appointment date rather than assuming your skin will be ready for makeup or an event immediately afterward.
How often should I return?
The right schedule depends on your skin, goals, home routine and response to treatment. Discuss a practical plan with your esthetician after your first visit. You can also ask about monthly skincare membership if regular appointments suit your needs.
Visit our Bankers Hill spa
Let us take care of your skin.
Book The Knotstop Signature Facial for personalized Eminence skincare in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Our estheticians will help you choose the care your skin needs.