Consult & cleanse
We review your goals, sensitivities and current skincare. Makeup removal as needed, MYSTIQ iLuminating Cleanser and PRO Exfoliating Cleanser prepare the skin for the professional treatment.
Lira Clinical · Bankers Hill, San Diego
The Red Carpet Treatment
Professional exfoliation, a setting masque and hydrating finishing care for a brighter, smoother-looking complexion. Begin your Lira Clinical treatment plan with our introductory facial.
An introduction to Lira Clinical
Brighter skin begins with thoughtful professional care.
The Red Carpet Treatment is a 50-minute facial that combines Lira Clinical resurfacing with masque care and massage. Additional time is reserved for consultation and aftercare guidance.
This treatment gives dullness and uneven surface texture focused attention, then finishes with serums, beauty oil and eye care. The MYSTIQ Lifting Masque provides time to relax while your esthetician massages your hands, arms, shoulders and neck.
If you are new to clinical-strength treatments at The Knotstop, this is the service to book first. We review your skin and current routine before deciding whether the planned treatment is appropriate. Introductory care still uses active exfoliation and requires preparation.
Your treatment experience
Resurface, replenish and relax.
Each stage has a purpose, from preparing the skin for exfoliation to choosing the finishing care. Your esthetician explains what to expect before beginning.
Refine the surface
Professional skin preparation is followed by Vita Brite Refresher and MYSTIQ iLuminating Polisher. This combination addresses surface buildup and the appearance of dull, uneven texture.
Masque & unwind
MYSTIQ Lifting Masque sets on the skin while you receive hand, arm, shoulder and neck massage. This is the restorative pause within the treatment.
Finish & protect
A finishing mist, PRO Lite Serum, BIO Hydra C Serum, MYSTIQ Beauty Oil and eye care complete the protocol, with appropriate daytime SPF. You leave with guidance for the days that follow.
The treatment sequence is performed by your esthetician. Professional exfoliants and layered application techniques should not be recreated at home.
Understanding clinical peels
What does a peel actually do?
A peel is a form of professional exfoliation. The word describes a treatment category, not a promise that your skin will visibly shed. Understanding the approach helps you choose care with confidence.
Exfoliation with a specific purpose
Peels use selected ingredients to exfoliate the skin’s surface. Depending on the formula and treatment, they can improve the appearance of uneven tone, rough texture, fine lines or blemishes. Different concerns call for different choices.
The Red Carpet Treatment uses Vita Brite Refresher, which contains mandelic acid, vitamin C and fruit enzymes, followed by MYSTIQ iLuminating Polisher. Your esthetician reviews whether this combination suits your skin.
Lira’s progressive approach
Lira Clinical’s Smart Peels collection supports a progressive approach: a course of selected treatments can be planned around your goals and response, rather than choosing the most intensive option first.
At The Knotstop, that starts with The Red Carpet Treatment. Later appointments may use a different protocol if appropriate. Lira offers several formulations; a treatment name alone does not tell you how your skin will react. Your consultation and preparation remain essential.
What you may feel during treatment
Exfoliating products may cause tingling, warmth or stinging. The MYSTIQ Lifting Masque also creates a setting sensation. Tell your esthetician how each stage feels so we can assess your response.
You do not need to tolerate intense burning for a treatment to be effective. Speak up promptly if a sensation becomes uncomfortable; stronger sensation is not a measure of a better result.
Visible peeling is not the goal
Some exfoliation happens without obvious shedding. You may notice a smoother feel with little visible flaking, or temporary dryness, redness and fine peeling. The response depends on the products, the treatment and your skin.
Heavy shedding is not proof that a peel worked better, and little peeling does not automatically mean it failed. We look at your skin’s condition, comfort and progress over time.
Recovery varies with the treatment
Superficial, medium and deep chemical peels differ in how far they affect the skin and the recovery they require. The term “peel” covers that broad range; a deep medical peel is not the service described on this page.
For your Lira appointment, we discuss the expected response for the planned protocol. Allow for possible redness or flaking, especially before an important event. A completely reaction-free result and a fixed recovery timeline cannot be guaranteed.
Your skin history shapes the plan
Tell us about sensitivity, medications, cold sores, recent procedures and any tendency to develop dark marks after irritation. Skin tone and a history of pigment changes matter when selecting exfoliation.
Peels can carry risks, including prolonged irritation and pigment changes. Your esthetician may recommend gentler care, postponing treatment or medical advice when appropriate. Preparation and aftercare are part of the treatment, not optional extras.
Expect a plan, not a promise of maximum peeling. We will discuss what is appropriate for your skin, what you may notice afterward and how to care for it at home. Keep the recovery routine simple, follow the instructions given and ask before returning to active products.
Your Lira treatment plan
Choose the next step with your esthetician.
Your introductory appointment helps us discuss whether a future treatment or an optional booster would suit your skin.
Within this treatment
Professional resurfacing & optional boosters
Vita Brite Refresher combines exfoliating acids and fruit enzymes. MYSTIQ iLuminating Polisher follows as part of the professional sequence, before the lifting masque and finishing care.
The protocol offers an optional Hyaluronic Acid Booster or Mineral Retinol Booster. Your esthetician reviews suitability and discusses the additional cost before adding a booster. Neither is required to receive the standard treatment.
Tell us about sensitivity, medication and upcoming events before considering an upgrade. A retinol booster is not appropriate during pregnancy.
Other Lira services
When you are ready for another approach
The Green Power Treatment and The Vita-Brite Treatment are more advanced services on our menu. After your introductory appointment, your esthetician can discuss whether either belongs in your treatment plan.
The Vita Brite Refresher product used here does not make this appointment the separate Vita-Brite Treatment. The services have different protocols.
From the treatment room to your home
Three Lira products to know.
These retail products are available for purchase through the Spa Boutique. We can help you choose what suits your skin and explain how it fits with the products you already use.
Exfoliation for smoother-looking skin
MYSTIQ iLuminating Polisher
A masque-and-scrub formula with mandelic acid, salicylic acid and shea nut shell powder. It helps refine surface texture and the appearance of pores. Your esthetician can advise whether it belongs in your home routine, particularly if you already use exfoliating products.
How to use at home
- On skin cleared for exfoliation, gently massage MYSTIQ iLuminating Polisher until the mastiha resin dissolves; keep clear of the eyes.
- Leave for 10–15 minutes, following your package and esthetician’s directions.
- Rinse away completely with lukewarm water, then apply suitable finishing care. Do not add other scrubs or acids to the session.
A firmer-looking finish
MYSTIQ Lifting Masque
With mastiha resin and marine ingredients, this setting masque is designed to improve the appearance of firmness and brightness. It is the masque used during your spa treatment and an option for an occasional facial at home. The tightening sensation as it sets is temporary.
How to use at home
- Spread a thin layer of MYSTIQ Lifting Masque upward over cleansed skin, keeping the eye area clear.
- Allow 15–20 minutes for the masque to set. Remove sooner if it causes burning or discomfort.
- Soften and rinse away with lukewarm water, then follow with your recommended serum and moisturizer.
Vitamin C & hydration
BIO Hydra C Serum
An aloe-based vitamin C serum with antioxidants, included in the finishing care of this facial. It supports hydration and a brighter-looking complexion. For home care, use it after cleansing and before your moisturizer or daytime sunscreen, following the directions on your bottle.
How to use at home
- After cleansing, smooth 1–2 pumps of BIO Hydra C Serum over your skin.
- Use morning and evening as directed on your bottle and by your esthetician. Leave on and follow with suitable moisturizer; finish morning care with sunscreen.
- After professional exfoliation, follow your individual aftercare plan before restarting this serum.
Home-care purchases are separate from your facial. Ask Guest Services about current availability, or speak with your esthetician during your visit.
Results & suitability
A refreshed complexion, with realistic expectations.
Skin may look brighter and feel smoother after treatment. Hydrating finishing care and the masque help complete the refreshed appearance.
The response varies with your skin, previous exfoliation and current routine. One facial cannot promise lasting correction of dark spots, lines or texture. A plan for ongoing care should reflect how your skin responds.
Tell us about an upcoming celebration when scheduling. A first clinical treatment is best planned with time to assess your response, rather than assuming your skin will be ready for makeup or photographs immediately afterward.
Dullness & surface texture
Selected professional exfoliation focuses on a smoother-feeling surface and a more luminous appearance.
Skin that needs individual review
Recent sunburn, active irritation, facial waxing and some medications can affect treatment suitability. Contact us before booking if these apply.
Your first clinical facial
Begin with The Red Carpet Treatment, then discuss future appointments after your esthetician has assessed your response.
Prepare for your appointment
Care before and after your treatment.
Bring your current routine into the conversation. The products you use at home help us decide what is appropriate in the treatment room.
Before Your Facial
- Our menu advises pausing retinol, Retin-A, tretinoin and other strong exfoliating products for 5–7 days unless your skincare professional directs otherwise. Contact us to review your routine, and arrange any prescription changes with your prescribing clinician.
- Tell us about current or previous isotretinoin use, other medications, recent professional treatments, allergies and a history of cold sores.
- Call before your visit if you have a sunburn, active irritation, broken skin or recent facial waxing. We may need to adjust the appointment or recommend waiting.
- Let us know if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or preparing for a special event. Share the names or photos of the skincare products you use.
After Your Facial
- Follow the aftercare given for your treatment. Use a gentle cleanser and the moisturizer recommended for you; ask when to resume acids, retinoids, scrubs and optional masques.
- Protect your skin from sun exposure with shade, protective clothing and broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Follow your sunscreen’s application and reapplication directions.
- If flaking occurs, allow it to shed without picking or scrubbing. Avoid adding extra exfoliation to speed the process.
- Contact the spa with aftercare questions. Seek medical advice for significant burning, swelling or worsening discomfort rather than applying more active products.
Daily care & an occasional home facial
Care for your skin between appointments.
A consistent routine gives professional care a useful foundation: cleanse gently, choose treatments selectively, moisturize and protect your skin from the sun.
The examples below include the Lira products featured in this facial. You can substitute suitable products you already own. Your esthetician can also recommend Eminence options where they fit your skin and preferences.
Aftercare comes first. This routine is for comfortable skin between appointments. Wait until your esthetician has cleared you to resume exfoliation and optional treatments after your clinical facial.
Morning care
Hydrate and protect.
- Cleanse gently. Use the cleanser recommended for your skin. Stone Crop Gel Wash is an Eminence option to discuss if you prefer a simple cleansing step without a resurfacing cleanser.
- Apply your selected serum. BIO Hydra C Serum is the Lira vitamin C option featured here. Use it as directed when your skin is comfortable and your aftercare permits.
- Moisturize where needed. Choose a texture that leaves skin comfortable. You do not need another active serum simply because it appears in a professional protocol.
- Finish with sunscreen. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Apply and reapply according to the label, with shade and protective clothing outdoors. Choose a water-resistant formula for swimming or sweating.
Evening care
Cleanse and restore moisture.
- Remove makeup and sunscreen. Use a tolerated makeup remover or cleansing oil when needed, then your usual gentle cleanser. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Keep treatments selective. Follow your established plan. If you use a prescription product, ask your clinician how it fits with professional exfoliation and when to resume it.
- Apply moisturizer. Choose a familiar formula that agrees with your skin. An oil may be an optional finishing step for suitable skin, rather than a requirement.
- Check how your skin feels. Tightness, persistent stinging or peeling are reasons to review the routine. Avoid layering additional acids or retinol in pursuit of a faster result.
A complete facial at home
An occasional treatment, chosen for your skin.
Once your skin has recovered from professional exfoliation, this sequence can be adapted for an occasional home facial. You do not need every optional step. Follow the directions on your products and the plan discussed with your esthetician.
Prepare and cleanse
- Wash your hands and set out a clean towel and your chosen products.
- Remove makeup and sunscreen, then cleanse without a brush or vigorous rubbing.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Tie longer hair back or use a clean headband to keep it away from your face.
- Keep a clean towel within reach and use clean hands or a clean spatula to dispense your products.
- Read your masque’s directions before starting and have a timer ready.
Decide whether to exfoliate
Optional Lira product: MYSTIQ iLuminating Polisher
- For skin cleared for exfoliation, use the retail product according to its label.
- Choose this as your exfoliating step; leave other acids and scrubs out of the session.
- Skip it when skin is irritated or your treatment plan calls for gentler care.
How to use this suggested product
- On skin cleared for exfoliation, gently massage MYSTIQ iLuminating Polisher until the mastiha resin dissolves; keep clear of the eyes.
- Leave for 10–15 minutes, following your package and esthetician’s directions.
- Rinse away completely with lukewarm water, then apply suitable finishing care. Do not add other scrubs or acids to the session.
Choose your masque
Lira option: MYSTIQ Lifting Masque
- Apply to cleansed skin as directed, avoiding the eyes.
- Use one masque that suits your skin; you do not need to combine it with the polisher every time.
- A setting sensation should never be a reason to tolerate burning or discomfort.
How to use this suggested product
- Spread a thin layer of MYSTIQ Lifting Masque upward over cleansed skin, keeping the eye area clear.
- Allow 15–20 minutes for the masque to set. Remove sooner if it causes burning or discomfort.
- Soften and rinse away with lukewarm water, then follow with your recommended serum and moisturizer.
Remove with a light touch
- Follow your chosen masque’s directions and rinse gently.
- Avoid rubbing with a rough cloth or trying to scrub the skin smoother.
- Pat dry with a clean towel.
- Soften a dried masque with lukewarm water or a soft damp cloth before gently lifting it away.
- Use a clean part of the cloth for each pass and rinse away collected product.
- Check around your nose, jaw and hairline for residue before the final rinse.
Apply your chosen serum
Lira option: BIO Hydra C Serum
- Apply your serum as directed if your skin is comfortable.
- If it feels sensitive after an optional treatment, leave out active serums and use your tolerated moisturizer.
- More layers do not necessarily improve the result.
How to use this suggested product
- After cleansing, smooth 1–2 pumps of BIO Hydra C Serum over your skin.
- Use morning and evening as directed on your bottle and by your esthetician. Leave on and follow with suitable moisturizer; finish morning care with sunscreen.
- After professional exfoliation, follow your individual aftercare plan before restarting this serum.
Finish with comfortable moisture
- Apply a suitable moisturizer.
- Use your own familiar formula or ask your esthetician for a recommendation.
- Let your skin’s comfort guide the amount and texture, rather than copying every finishing product used in the spa.
Protect during the day
- Finish a daytime facial with broad-spectrum sunscreen, following the label.
- If you treat your skin in the evening, finish with moisturizer and return to sun protection the next morning.
- Cover your face, ears, neck and any exposed upper chest evenly. Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
- Apply 15 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply at least every two hours outdoors, following the label; use a water-resistant formula for swimming or sweating.
- Pair sunscreen with shade and protective clothing, especially while following your post-treatment care plan.
Adjust the routine to your skin.
Dry or easily irritated skin
Keep the routine focused on a comfortable cleanse and moisture. Ask before adding a setting masque or exfoliating product.
Uneven tone or rough texture
Choose a consistent routine and discuss how exfoliation fits with your professional visits. Sun protection remains an essential daily step.
Prescription skincare in use
Bring the product names to your appointment. Coordinate optional home treatments with that plan instead of adding them automatically.
Explore our facial collection
Choose care that reflects your skin.
Clinical resurfacing is one approach to skincare. These services offer other treatment priorities.
Customized Eminence skincare
The Knotstop Signature Facial
Broadly personalized care with a choice of one included enhancement, plus a detailed general skincare routine for home.
Congestion & breakouts
Clear Skin Facial
Focused Eminence care for clogged pores and breakout-prone skin, with extractions when appropriate and relevant home-care guidance.
Compare your options
Our Facial Menu
Explore the full facial collection, current service details and optional enhancements. Guest Services can help you choose.
Your first visit
Begin at the Member Rate.
New guests receive the applicable Member Rate on their first qualifying service, applied at checkout. The Red Carpet Treatment qualifies. Optional boosters and paid enhancements are additional.
Seasonal Facials and Couples Massage are excluded from the first-visit offer.
Ongoing professional care
Explore The KnotClub.
KnotClub members receive Member Rates on qualifying services. The skincare membership includes The Knotstop Signature Facial each month.
Ask Guest Services about current eligibility and any additional payment when choosing a clinical treatment. Your esthetician can recommend an appointment plan based on your skin’s response.
Before you book
Questions about The Red Carpet Treatment
Is this the right first Lira treatment to book?
Yes. If this is your first clinical-strength treatment with The Knotstop, begin with The Red Carpet Treatment. Your esthetician will assess your skin, review your current products and discuss whether the planned exfoliation is appropriate before proceeding.
How does it differ from The Knotstop Signature Facial?
The Red Carpet Treatment follows a Lira Clinical protocol centered on professional resurfacing, the MYSTIQ Lifting Masque and finishing serums. The Knotstop Signature Facial uses customized Eminence skincare and includes a choice of one eligible enhancement. The Signature enhancement choice is not included with The Red Carpet Treatment.
Is Vita Brite Refresher the same as The Vita-Brite Treatment?
No. Vita Brite Refresher is a professional product used within The Red Carpet Treatment. The Vita-Brite Treatment is a separate, more advanced service on our menu. Your esthetician can discuss that service or The Green Power Treatment after assessing your response to introductory care.
Does my skin have to peel for the treatment to work?
No. Exfoliation can occur without obvious sheets of peeling skin. Some guests notice little visible shedding; others experience dryness or fine flaking. The amount you peel is not a reliable measure of improvement. We assess your skin’s comfort and changes in its appearance rather than aim for maximum shedding.
Can I book before a special event?
Tell us the date of your event before booking. Redness, sensitivity or flaking can affect how skin looks and how makeup sits. We can help plan an appropriate appointment date, especially for your first clinical treatment. We cannot promise a completely reaction-free result or immediate readiness for photographs.
What should I do about retinol or prescription skincare?
Our menu advises pausing retinol, Retin-A, tretinoin and other strong exfoliating products for 5–7 days before clinical treatments unless your skincare professional directs otherwise. Contact us before booking to review your routine. Arrange changes to prescribed products with your prescribing clinician; do not stop medication on your own.
Is this treatment suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Contact the spa before booking so we can review the complete treatment and your skincare with you. We do not describe this clinical-strength service as universally suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. A retinol booster is not used during pregnancy. Your maternity care clinician can advise on medical restrictions.
Do extractions or the Signature enhancement choices come with this treatment?
The Red Carpet Treatment centers on the Lira exfoliation, masque, massage and finishing care described on this page. Extractions and The Knotstop Signature Facial’s enhancement choice are not listed as inclusions in this protocol. Ask Guest Services if pore congestion is your main concern; Clear Skin Facial may be a more suitable starting point.
Can I use my own products for the home routine?
Yes. Suitable products you already tolerate can replace the examples on this page. Ask us to review how they fit together, especially if you use acids, retinoids or acne medication. The home-facial routine is for comfortable skin between appointments, after your esthetician has cleared you to resume optional treatments.
Visit our Bankers Hill spa
Book The Red Carpet Treatment.
Begin your Lira Clinical care with a professional treatment and a home-care plan at The Knotstop, locally owned in San Diego since 2006.