Taking care of your skin is one of the best forms of self-care—and sometimes that means going beyond your daily cleanser and moisturizer. Enter: a facial by True Skin by Lauren.
Recently, I treated myself to a professional, new client facial at True Skin by Lauren, a licensed esthetician located near Milwaukee. It was equal parts relaxing spa day and results-driven skincare session, and helped me inch closer to my ongoing skincare goals. (For example, staying moisturized, addressing my acne scarring and skin texture, and seeking out new-to-me treatments.)
If you’ve never had a facial before (or you’re wondering what to expect), here’s a deep dive into the experience.
What is a facial?

A facial is a professional skincare treatment designed to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish the skin. Estheticians customize facials based on your specific skin concerns—whether that’s dryness, acne, dullness, or signs of aging.
Most facials include several core steps:
- Deep cleansing to remove dirt, oil, and makeup
- Exfoliation to remove dead skin cells
- Steam and extractions (if needed) to clear pores
- Massage to improve circulation and relaxation
- Masks and serums, customized to targeted to your skin type
The goal is both immediate glow and long-term skin health, helping your skin absorb products more effectively and to support natural cell renewal.
About True Skin by Lauren


True Skin by Lauren is a boutique skincare studio in Elm Grove, just outside Milwaukee. The business was founded in 2020 by licensed esthetician Lauren Feuling, whose approach centers on personalized treatments and education so clients can better understand their own skin.
Lauren focuses on creating treatments that are both relaxing and results-driven, offering services like customized facials, dermaplaning, microneedling, chemical peels, waxing, LED therapy, and advanced skincare treatments. She’s also oncology trained, and offers specialized body care for people undergoing cancer treatments.
One thing that really stood out to me is how individualized the experience is. Rather than a one-size-fits-all facial, Lauren starts with a skin analysis and consultation, allowing her to tailor every step of the treatment to your specific needs. I originally reached out to Lauren for microneedling treatments, and she asked to first take a closer look at my skin, to see if I would actually be a candidate. Her philosophy is very much to help and tailor skincare to your specific needs!
My facial experience




My visit started with a quick conversation about my skin goals and concerns. Lauren asked about my routine, products, any sensitivities, and concerns or goals. That consultation helped guide the rest of the facial so every step was intentional.
Once I was settled in the treatment room, the facial began with a cleanse to remove makeup. From there, I opted to add on dermaplaning onto my treatment, which works to exfoliate by removing layers of peach fuzz and dead skin using a blade. My skin was immediately so smooth and fresh afterward.
Steam helped soften the skin before moving onto a neck, face, and body massage, followed by serums and masks suited to my skin type. Between the massage, the warm towels between products, and the calming atmosphere, the experience was incredibly relaxing.
Depending on your skin’s needs, treatments may also include enzyme exfoliation, masks, LED therapy, or hydrating serums. At True Skin by Lauren, many facials include customized masks and nourishing products designed to hydrate and restore the skin.
The treatment ended with finishing products like moisturizer, leaving my skin hydrated and happy.
What to expect after a facial


One of the best parts of getting a facial is the instant glow and obvious radiance. Right after my appointment, my skin felt incredibly smooth, hydrated, and refreshed.
Here’s what you can typically expect after a facial:
- Immediate radiance: skin often looks brighter and more hydrated.
- Minimal downtime: most people can go right back to their normal day. (However, avoid touching your face or applying makeup for the remainder of the day, if possible!)
- Improved product absorption: your skincare routine works even better afterward.
- Relaxation: from start to finish, the treatment acts like a mini reset.
Some people experience slight redness after extractions, but it usually fades quickly. Though everyone is different, most adults can benefit from getting a professional facial every 4 to 6 weeks (I aim for every other month, when possible!).
Post-treatment, Lauren also provided me with samples, plus followed up with a list of personalized recommendations for future care.
Final thoughts
If you’re looking for a way to reset your skin and take some time for yourself, a professional facial is absolutely worth it. My experience at True Skin by Lauren was both relaxing and educational—I walked away with glowing skin and a better understanding of how to care for it at home, plus steps to take for future treatments.
What I loved most was the personalized approach. Instead of just performing a treatment, Lauren really focuses on helping clients understand their skin and build a routine that supports long-term results.
Whether you’re new to facials or already in the thick of your skincare journey, I recommend regular facials to feel refreshed, confident, and glowing.
Quick details: True Skin by Lauren
Location: Elm Grove, Wisconsin
Website: www.trueskinbylauren.com
Service: customized facial treatment
Price: starting at $150
Appointment Length: around 60 – 90 minutes (varies by service)
Best For: deep cleansing, hydration, acne-prone skin, dullness, and overall skin maintenance
Downtime: none to very minimal (possible mild redness)
Good to Know: treatments are customized based on your skin type and goals


When you go, be sure to tell them Sunshine with Savannah sent you!
Established in 2018, Sunshine with Savannah is a catch-all blog with an emphasis on weekend travel, millennial-style marriage and fun, reflection-based musings, outdoor adventure, home design, and all things lifestyle.
Though the content is diverse and varied, the heart of this space stays true to a single, guiding principle: a simple pursuit to find sunshine, wherever I go.

Your stories highlight great companies and people providing valuable services for those in your area…always well written as well!
You activated my self-care mode today – thanks!