Consult & assess
We discuss breakouts, sensitivities, recent treatments and your home routine. Skin analysis guides which areas need attention and which products are appropriate.
Eminence Organic Skin Care · Bankers Hill, San Diego
Clear Skin Facial
Professional care for clogged pores, congestion and breakout-prone skin. This customized Eminence facial combines selected exfoliation, extractions when appropriate and targeted masque care, with practical guidance for your routine at home.
Care for breakout-prone skin
Professional care for congestion and breakouts.
The Clear Skin Facial is a 50-minute treatment centered on congestion, clogged pores and blemishes. Your esthetician assesses your skin before selecting the exfoliation, masque and finishing products.
Breakout-prone skin can also feel dry, tight or sensitive. We take those concerns into account, along with your current skincare and any acne treatments you use. The aim is effective pore care that respects your skin’s tolerance.
Your visit includes consultation, skin analysis, extractions as needed and facial massage, with hand, arm, shoulder and neck massage incorporated during the treatment. Product choices are adjusted throughout the facial.
The treatment experience
Thorough care, guided by your skin.
Your esthetician considers both the congestion you can see and the sensitivity you may be feeling. You do not need to choose every product before arriving.
Cleanse & exfoliate
Makeup removal and a double cleanse prepare the skin. Professional exfoliation is selected for your condition and tolerance, with hand and arm massage while the treatment rests.
Address congestion
Extractions are performed where appropriate. A customized Eminence masque and gentle lymphatic-style facial massage follow, with shoulder and neck massage during the masque treatment.
Finish & plan
Selected serum, hydration, eye and lip care, and SPF complete the facial. Your esthetician helps you understand how to care for your skin between appointments.
Professional cleansing options include Firm Skin Acai Cleanser or Stone Crop Cleansing Oil, followed by Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser with Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant. Your esthetician adjusts the treatment to your skin rather than asking you to reproduce this professional sequence at home.
Targeted treatment choices
Extractions, masques and optional enhancements
Routine extractions and customized masque care are included. Additional enhancement work is optional and discussed separately.
Included customized care
Extractions & selected masques
Extractions address suitable congestion after cleansing and exfoliation. Your esthetician assesses the skin first; more pressure and more extractions are not a measure of a better facial.
Clear Skin Probiotic Masque may be selected with other appropriate Eminence masques. For suitable oily or combination skin with congestion, Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque is another option.
The charcoal masque absorbs excess oil, but it is not suitable for irritation-prone skin. We select the masque according to your skin’s condition rather than include charcoal automatically.
Optional paid enhancement
Intense Pore Cleansing
This enhancement combines high-frequency treatment with additional extraction work when appropriate. It offers a more focused option for guests whose main concern is pore congestion.
A glass electrode delivers a controlled high-frequency electrical current to selected areas. Your esthetician reviews your skin and health history before recommending this electrical treatment.
High frequency is unsuitable during pregnancy or for guests with pacemakers or other implanted electronic medical devices. This enhancement is separately priced; it is not a complimentary inclusion with Clear Skin.
Eminence product selection
Know what goes on your skin.
These products illustrate the treatment and the home-care options we may discuss. The right combination depends on your skin, allergies, current treatments and tolerance.
Customized treatment masque
Clear Skin Probiotic Masque
With yogurt, cucumber and kaolin clay, this masque offers cooling care and helps improve the appearance of blemish-prone skin. Your esthetician may select it as part of your customized masque treatment.
How to use at home
- Blend a small amount of Clear Skin Probiotic Masque with a few drops of water in your palm.
- Spread evenly over clean skin, keeping clear of the eyes and lips.
- Leave for 5–10 minutes, then remove gently with a lukewarm, damp cloth and rinse thoroughly.
Targeted acne treatment
Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator
A lightweight lotion containing encapsulated salicylic acid. It is formulated to treat acne and leave a matte finish. At home, follow its Drug Facts directions; it is an active treatment, not simply a moisturizer.
How to use at home
- Cleanse before applying Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator.
- Smooth a thin layer over the face and neck, avoiding the eyes, and leave it on.
- Follow your package’s Drug Facts. Begin once daily; reduce use if bothersome dryness or peeling occurs. Do not increase frequency beyond your label or clinician’s advice.
- Ask your clinician or pharmacist before combining it with other acne medication. This is a salicylic-acid treatment, not an extra layer of ordinary moisturizer.
Optional care for congestion
Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque
Activated charcoal and clay absorb excess oil and help clear pore buildup. This is an optional choice for suitable congested skin, particularly oily or combination skin. It is not suitable for irritation-prone skin.
How to use at home
- Spread a small amount of Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque evenly over clean skin, avoiding the eyes and lips.
- Leave for 5–10 minutes, then rinse well with lukewarm water; use a soft cloth if needed.
- The label suggests 1–2 uses weekly. Agree a suitable frequency with your esthetician; do not use on irritation-prone skin.
Recommended for home care
Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser
A cream-gel cleanser with cucumber, tea tree oil, yogurt and sweet almond milk, designed for oily to normal, breakout-prone skin. This is a home-care recommendation; the professional facial uses the cleansing options described above.
How to use at home
- Dilute a pea-sized amount of Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser with water in your hands.
- Massage gently over the face and neck for 1–3 minutes, avoiding the eyes.
- Remove completely with a soft, damp cloth, then rinse away any residue.
Your esthetician may also select a booster serum, Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Concentrate or Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum according to your skin’s needs. Take-home products are purchased separately.
Realistic results
What to expect from your treatment
After your facial, skin may feel cleaner and smoother, with selected areas of congestion addressed. The longer-term plan is to support your skin consistently without creating unnecessary dryness or irritation.
One appointment cannot guarantee clear skin or prevent every future breakout. Your response depends on the type of congestion, your skin’s tolerance, home care and any medical treatment you use.
If acne is deep, painful, persistent or leaving scars, see a dermatologist. A facial can support appropriate skincare, but it does not replace medical acne treatment.
Clogged pores & surface buildup
Selected exfoliation and appropriate extractions give these concerns focused attention. Not every visible spot should be extracted.
Excess oil & uneven texture
Product choices can help manage shine and improve the feel of the skin’s surface. Drying the skin until it feels tight is not the goal.
Breakouts with dryness or sensitivity
We assess how your skin is tolerating your routine and adjust the facial accordingly. Additional exfoliation may need to be reduced or omitted.
Before & after your visit
Help us care for your skin comfortably.
Acne products can affect how skin responds to a facial. Let us know what you use so we can plan your treatment appropriately.
Before your facial
- Bring the names or photos of your cleanser, acne treatments, serums and moisturizer, including any prescription products.
- Avoid extra scrubs and at-home peels for at least 48 hours beforehand. Contact us about retinoids, acne medications or recent professional treatments rather than making medication changes on your own.
- Tell us about allergies, recent waxing or laser procedures, pregnancy, or any current irritation. Call before the appointment if your skin is sunburned, broken or unusually sensitive.
- Arrive without heavy makeup if convenient. Makeup removal is available as part of the facial.
After your facial
- Keep your routine gentle and use an appropriate moisturizer. Your esthetician will explain which products to resume and when.
- Leave extractions to your esthetician. Avoid picking or squeezing areas that remain congested.
- Skip scrubs and additional exfoliation for at least 48 hours, or longer if advised. Give skin a break from excess heat, steam and intense exercise immediately afterward.
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and follow its reapplication directions. Contact us if you need help understanding your aftercare instructions.
Home care for breakout-prone skin
A routine you can follow consistently.
Cleansing, an appropriate treatment, moisture and sun protection form a useful foundation. Each product should have a reason to be in your routine.
The examples below use Eminence products. They can be adapted to suitable products you already own, including a routine prescribed by your dermatologist. Introduce changes gradually so you can tell how your skin responds.
Keep hydration and acne treatment distinct. Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator contains salicylic acid. If you need additional moisture, choose a suitable non-medicated moisturizer instead of repeatedly applying more acne treatment.
Morning care
Cleanse gently. Protect daily.
- Cleanse: Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser is an option for oily to normal skin that tolerates the formula. Use gentle fingertips and lukewarm water. If your skin is dry, reactive or using acne medication, a simpler cleanser such as Stone Crop Gel Wash may suit you better.
- Treat only as directed: Follow your established acne-treatment plan. You do not need to use an acne product at every step of the routine.
- Moisturize: Choose a lightweight moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin. Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator is a non-medicated Eminence hydration option to discuss if the formula agrees with your skin.
- Protect: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40 is an Eminence mineral sunscreen option to discuss. Follow its label, and choose a water-resistant sunscreen when swimming or sweating.
Evening care
Cleanse, treat and moisturize.
- Remove makeup and sunscreen: Use your tolerated makeup remover or cleanser. Stone Crop Cleansing Oil can be an optional first cleanse; rinse thoroughly and follow with a gentle cleanser if needed.
- Apply your selected treatment: If Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator is part of your plan, follow the Drug Facts on the package. Start with one application daily; reduce use if bothersome dryness or peeling occurs.
- Add moisture where needed: A comfortable finish should not require stripping away all oil. Use your chosen non-medicated moisturizer if skin feels dry.
- Give the routine time: Avoid switching products repeatedly or adding a new peel whenever a blemish appears. Review ongoing problems with your esthetician or dermatologist.
Combining topical acne products can increase dryness and irritation. If you already use retinoids, benzoyl peroxide or other acne medication, discuss adding the salicylic acid hydrator with your prescribing clinician or pharmacist.
A complete facial at home
Give your skin focused care without overworking it.
This gentle sequence is for comfortable skin between appointments. If your skin is sore, peeling or irritated, leave out optional treatments and follow the routine recommended for you. You do not need steam, a cleansing brush or an extraction tool.
Prepare your products
- Wash your hands and set out a clean towel, your cleanser, one suitable masque, moisturizer and sunscreen if it is daytime.
- Use familiar products rather than testing an entire new collection during one facial.
- Follow any instructions given after your recent spa visit.
- Tie longer hair back or use a clean headband so you can reach the hairline without getting product in your hair.
- Dispense products into clean palms or use a clean spatula for jars. Keep the towel within reach.
- Read the directions before applying your masque and have a timer ready for its recommended contact time.
Cleanse without scrubbing
Eminence options: Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser or Stone Crop Gel Wash
- Remove makeup and sunscreen, then cleanse gently with your fingertips.
- Choose the cleanser your skin tolerates, especially if you use a leave-on acne treatment.
- Rinse well and pat dry.
- Extra washing and vigorous scrubbing can leave breakout-prone skin more irritated.
How to use this suggested product
- Dilute a pea-sized amount of Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser with water in your hands.
- Massage gently over the face and neck for 1–3 minutes, avoiding the eyes.
- Remove completely with a soft, damp cloth, then rinse away any residue.
Choose one appropriate masque
Eminence options: Clear Skin Probiotic Masque or Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque
- Clear Skin Probiotic Masque offers cooling care for suitable oily to normal, blemish-prone skin.
- The charcoal masque is an alternative for congestion and excess oil, but is unsuitable for irritation-prone skin.
- Choose with your esthetician’s guidance; do not layer both in pursuit of a stronger result.
How to use this suggested product
- Clear Skin Probiotic Masque: Blend a small amount of Clear Skin Probiotic Masque with a few drops of water in your palm.
- Clear Skin Probiotic Masque: Spread evenly over clean skin, keeping clear of the eyes and lips.
- Clear Skin Probiotic Masque: Leave for 5–10 minutes, then remove gently with a lukewarm, damp cloth and rinse thoroughly.
- Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque: Spread a small amount of Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque evenly over clean skin, avoiding the eyes and lips.
- Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque: Leave for 5–10 minutes, then rinse well with lukewarm water; use a soft cloth if needed.
- Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque: The label suggests 1–2 uses weekly. Agree a suitable frequency with your esthetician; do not use on irritation-prone skin.
- Choose one masque for this session; do not layer the two.
Remove the masque gently
- Follow the chosen product’s label for application and removal.
- Use lukewarm water and light touch, keeping the product away from your eyes.
- Avoid rubbing inflamed blemishes.
- If a product becomes uncomfortable, remove it rather than waiting for a stronger sensation.
- If the masque has dried, soften it with lukewarm water or briefly rest a soft, damp cloth against the area before lifting it away.
- Use a clean section of the cloth for each pass and rinse the cloth as you go, rather than repeatedly wiping with product buildup.
- Check the sides of the nose, jawline and hairline for residue. Rinse as needed, then pat dry with a fresh towel before your next step.
Keep active treatments selective
If already recommended: Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator
- Use your selected acne treatment only according to its label or your clinician’s directions.
- A masque session does not require another exfoliant, scrub or peel.
- If skin feels sensitive after masking, skip additional active products and use a moisturizer you tolerate.
How to use this suggested product
- Cleanse before applying Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator.
- Smooth a thin layer over the face and neck, avoiding the eyes, and leave it on.
- Follow your package’s Drug Facts. Begin once daily; reduce use if bothersome dryness or peeling occurs. Do not increase frequency beyond your label or clinician’s advice.
- Ask your clinician or pharmacist before combining it with other acne medication. This is a salicylic-acid treatment, not an extra layer of ordinary moisturizer.
Restore comfortable moisture
Eminence option to discuss: Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator
- Smooth on your chosen non-medicated moisturizer without rubbing tender areas.
- The hyaluronic hydrator is a lightweight option for skin that needs moisture, if it suits your skin.
- You can use your own acne-friendly moisturizer instead; oily areas still deserve appropriate hydration.
How to use this suggested product
- Smooth Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator over the face, neck and upper chest and leave it on.
- Use a little extra on areas that feel dry. There is no rinse-off step.
- Choose a familiar non-medicated moisturizer instead if this formula does not suit your skin.
Finish with daytime sun protection
Eminence option to discuss: Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40
- If it is daytime, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen suited to your skin.
- Follow the label for application and reapplication, and use shade and protective clothing outdoors.
- For an evening facial, finish with moisturizer and apply sunscreen the following morning.
How to use this suggested product
- Apply Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40 generously and evenly as your final morning skincare step, 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- Warm a little between your hands, spread over the face, neck and exposed chest, and build coverage gradually. A small starting amount is not the full application.
- Reapply at least every two hours outdoors. For swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen and follow its label.
Adjust the routine to your skin.
Mostly congestion and oiliness
Discuss the charcoal masque or a suitable clarifying product. Add one change at a time and avoid using several exfoliating products together.
Breakouts with tightness or peeling
Review how much active treatment you use. Prioritize a gentle cleanse and comfortable moisture, and ask your clinician how to adjust prescribed products.
Prescription treatment already in place
Keep that plan central. Ask before adding salicylic acid, exfoliating masques or peels, and tell your esthetician about changes before your next appointment.
Explore our facial collection
Other facials to consider
Clear Skin focuses on congestion and breakouts. These services offer other approaches to professional skincare.
Broadly customized Eminence care
The Knotstop Signature Facial
A versatile introduction to professional skincare, with a choice of one included enhancement and a general home-care guide.
An introduction to Lira Clinical
The Red Carpet Treatment
The introductory treatment for guests considering the spa’s clinical-strength corrective services. Suitability is assessed individually.
Skincare for men
Men’s Urban Facial
Customized Eminence skincare with attention to men’s concerns, including shaving-related irritation, dryness and congestion.
Your first visit
Begin at the Member Rate.
New guests receive the applicable Member Rate on their first qualifying service, applied at checkout. Clear Skin Facial qualifies for this offer. Paid enhancements are additional.
Seasonal Facials and Couples Massage are excluded from the first-visit offer. Reserve the service you want; Guest Services applies the qualifying rate at checkout.
Ongoing professional care
Explore The KnotClub.
KnotClub members receive Member Rates on qualifying facial services. The skincare membership includes The Knotstop Signature Facial each month.
Ask Guest Services about current eligibility and any additional payment for a different facial. A consistent appointment plan should reflect your skin’s response and the care you use at home.
Before you book
Questions about the Clear Skin Facial
How does Clear Skin differ from The Knotstop Signature Facial?
Clear Skin centers the treatment on congestion and breakout-prone skin, with targeted masque choices and home-care guidance for those concerns. The Knotstop Signature Facial offers broader customization and includes a choice of one eligible enhancement. Clear Skin enhancements are optional and separately priced.
Will you extract every blemish?
No. Your esthetician assesses which areas are appropriate for extractions. Deep, painful or highly inflamed blemishes should not be squeezed. The aim is careful pore care without unnecessary trauma to the skin.
Can I have this facial while using prescription acne products?
Contact the spa before booking and tell us what you use, including prescription retinoids, oral isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide and exfoliating acids. These details affect which steps are appropriate. Your esthetician may recommend modifications or postponing treatment. Do not stop or change prescribed medication without guidance from your prescribing clinician.
Is Clear Skin suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Please contact the spa before booking. The planned products and enhancement choices need individual review, including any acne-treatment ingredients. High-frequency treatment is not used during pregnancy. Your maternity care clinician can advise on medical restrictions, and your esthetician will discuss the planned service with you.
Can this facial address hormonal breakouts?
We can tailor care to the congestion, dryness and visible blemishes you are experiencing, including recurring patterns you have noticed. A facial does not change hormone levels. Persistent cyclical breakouts may benefit from a dermatologist’s assessment alongside a suitable skincare routine.
Should I expect redness or peeling afterward?
Temporary redness or sensitivity can occur after exfoliation and extractions. Peeling is not the goal of this facial, and a particular response cannot be guaranteed. Tell us about an upcoming event before scheduling so we can help you plan an appropriate appointment date.
Do I need to buy a new skincare routine?
No. Bring the names or photos of the products you already use. We can explain what fits your skin, where products overlap and whether a change would be useful. The Eminence examples on this page can be substituted with suitable products you already tolerate.
What if I have a nut or dairy allergy?
Tell Guest Services before your visit and remind your esthetician during the consultation. Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser lists sweet almond milk and yogurt, and Clear Skin Probiotic Masque also contains yogurt. We need to review each planned product individually rather than assume every product in a brand or collection is suitable.
Visit our Bankers Hill spa
Book your Clear Skin Facial.
Receive focused professional care and practical guidance for breakout-prone skin at The Knotstop, locally owned in San Diego since 2006.