One of the most sought-after skin care treatments, oxygen facials are a favorite among celebrities such as Madonna, who swears by them for helping her skin appear young and healthy. And according to Lisa Arnold, an esthetician at Silk, A Medical Spa in Encino, California, Victoria’s Secret models also prep for the runway with pre-show oxygen facials, which deliver oxygen, vitamins and hyaluronic acid deep into the skin, helping to increase production of collagen and promote natural skin elasticity.

Recently, I had the opportunity to experience the Hydration Station Oxygen Facial performed by Arnold. The treatment, which is typically an hour long (add an extra 20 minutes if you want LED Light treatment), nourishes and hydrates skin from the inside out. Using low molecular weight serums and high-pressure hyperbaric oxygen for maximum product penetration, Arnold customizes the facial according to each guest. Afterwards, skin is softer, hydrated, and glowing for days.

SPA PROFILE: Silk, A Medical Spa

Here’s what you’ll love about Silk, A Medical Spa: 

• Stunning views of the Encino hills from the spa reception area and treatment rooms

• An expert team of trained and skilled nurses, aestheticians and plastic surgeons help guests achieve their skin and body goals

• Advanced state-of-the-art technology and treatments for treating a variety of issues and concerns, including hair removal, laser resurfacing and injectables

• A relaxing, calm environment that offers privacy and peace for all guests receiving treatments

Upon entering the Spa, I was immediately greeted by expansive views of the Encino Hills, which served as the stunning backdrop during my visit. I was offered a bottle of Voss Water upon my arrival, and because I had already completed my paperwork online prior to coming in, Arnold quickly escorted me to the treatment room to begin my service. Talk about minimal wait time!

I was pleasantly surprised to discover that my private treatment room also offered incredible views. Arnold pulled down the shades to prevent the sun from getting into my eyes during my service, but the view was still visible through the shades, which was really nice.

I changed into a spa wrap towel (which came with chocolates, similar to hotel turn-down service), and then Arnold had me lay down onto the heated treatment bed. She placed protective goggles over my eyes, and then it was time for the facial to begin.

Arnold started out by performing several cleanses on my skin to remove build-up from environmental pollutants. After a purifying cleanse, she followed up with SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser—which she made into a mask—to remove dead skin cells. Oftentimes microdermabrasion is done as well, and the Spa also offers dermaplaning, which is a method of exfoliation that involves lightly scraping off the top layer of dead skin cells with a scalpel.

After placing me under steam to open my pores, she performed extractions, followed by a foaming purifying cleanser to cleanse any bacteria that has been brought to the surface. Next, she gave me a lactic peel (alpha-hydroxy acid), which goes deep into the epidermis, creates new cellular activity, and gently lifts dead skin to help reveal a brighter, complexion.

Then she gave me LightStim Anti-Aging LED Light Therapy for 20 minutes, which provides unique therapeutic benefits. LED is non-invasive, painless, and requires no recovery down-time. It is good for all skin types, and the LightStim Anti-Aging has LEDs of Amber, Light Red, Dark Red, and Infrared—specifically reducing and eliminating fine lines and wrinkles to help maintain a more youthful appearance.

Lastly, Arnold performed the oxygen therapy, which is a non-invasive procedure that consists of delivering a fine mist of solution via a nebulizer to facilitate the delivery of oxygen to the epidermis. “When we infuse the oxygen it is hyperbaric, so it’s very healing for the skin and helps with inflammation,” says Arnold. “It’s also great for those with acne, helping to kill bacteria.”

Arnold recommends getting an oxygen facial every four weeks, and with every facial, skin will continue to improve. Silk, A Medical Spa offers special packages and discounts when you buy multiple treatments. As for post-facial treatment, when you leave the Spa, you’re done with your skin care for the day. Arnold advises against excessively touching your face afterwards to avoid spreading bacteria, and don’t wash your face until the next morning. If you have a SoulCycle class scheduled later, then you can do a light cleansing afterwards.

Upon completion of my facial, my skin felt softer and looked more radiant. Arnold explained to me that my skin might initially feel slightly “sticky”, which is just a sign of extra hydration. And she was right—my skin looked red-carpet ready immediately after and had the perfect glow. I’m already looking forward to my next treatment!

“I just love helping people with their skin,” says Arnold. “At Silk, we strive to customize every treatment and take our time with each patient that walks through the door.”

Tip: The Spa is paperless, so all forms are submitted by an iPad, which is provided upon arrival. Paperwork will be emailed prior to your appointment.

To book your next treatment, visit the Spa’s website and follow them on Instagram: @silkmedispa

Parking: Valet parking in the attached structure. The front desk will validate for one hour.

Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mon-Fri

Phone: 818-981-8888

Silk Medical Spa

16633 Ventura Blvd, Suite #902

Encino, CA 91436

[Images by Kamala Kirk]

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk