Steam rooms are back in fashion (did they ever really leave?). The hot-lather shave is trendy again. But the one manly spa trend that's still a little slow to catch on is probably the one that's most beneficial: the men's facial.

But just what is it about a facial that makes men so hesitant? Is it the fact that, unlike today's straight-razor shaves, they don't come with a free beer at the end? Is it that they don't like the accompanying shoulder and neck massage (just kidding, everybody likes that). Or, is it just that they simply don't understand what a facial does and what they're missing out on?

Spoiler: we think it's the latter. So to help elevate the humble men's facial from comedic punching bag to debonair grooming must (you just know the Dos Equis guy exfoliates), we threw together this helpful guide to facials for men.

What is a men's facial?

Men's facials are a lot like women's facials but are formulated to the unique needs of men's skin. They usually deal with problems men commonly face, such as razor burn and ingrown hairs, dullness, and sensitivity. Some target skin that has been damaged by the elements like sun and wind, some target acne, and some target aging. If essential oils are used, they generally are infused with "masculine" scents—think musk and cedar, not sirloin steak.

What happens during a facial for men?

Aestheticians deeply cleanse skin before exfoliating away dead skin cells, steaming open pores, performing extractions to clear individually clogged pores, and applying a toner. The facials may include a vigorous face, neck, and shoulder massage, and they often conclude with the application of a custom mask and men's skincare products.

Shop the trend:

Why should men get facials?

Men's skin and women's skin differ in a few key areas. For instance, men's skin is 25% thicker, has a higher collagen density and produces more sebum oil, which can lead to more breakouts. That's why facials tailored specifically to men's skin exist.

It's also an opportunity to exfoliate the top half of your face the way the bottom half is exfoliated when you shave (yup, you're exfoliating each time you shave). And, it's an opportunity to chat with a professional skin specialist about the types of products you should be incorporating into your grooming routine at home. They can point you toward moisturizers, serums, and toners specifically formulated to male skin and its unique problems.

Also, did we mention the massage? In addition to being really relaxing, studies show that facial massage may help tone skin and prevent wrinkles and crows feet. Win-win.

How long does the facial take?

Men's facials generally last 30–60 minutes.

Do I need to shave before my facial?

If you're working a full beard, you don't have to ditch it before your facial. In fact, the products used during your facial may also benefit your facial hair, making it look shinier and healthier.

If you do shave, make sure you do it the day before, not the day-of your facial. Freshly-shaven skin will be more prone to irritation during the facial, so it's best to wait at least 24-hours after shaving before loading on the topical treatments.

How often should you get a men's facial?

Your skin should feel noticeably clean and soft after just one facial, but if you want that youthful glow to last, you should commit to booking a facial once a month. Why? It takes around a month for skin cells to go through their entire life cycle, meaning your face will be full of dead, dull skin cells ready to be sloughed off again within that time frame. If that sounds a little too indulgent for you, make sure to establish a regular exfoliating routine at home, using either brushes or products, and you'll be able to go longer between facials.

Still unsure? Check out the video below to learn more about men's facials: