If you're getting ready to immerse yourself in the facial way of life, here are some terms and concepts with which you should familiarize yourself.

Cleanse, tone moisturize – this refers to the daily (or possibly twice-daily) routine that your facialist would have you believe forms the basis of healthy skin. After washing the face, a toner is applied to absorb any excess oil. Finally a moisturizer is used to prevent the dryness that is most likely the effect of the toner.

Combination Skin – a useless term used to describe skin that is dry in some areas, oily in others, and “normal” everywhere else. If you're not sure what this condition means, kindly consult your local mirror. It's a sure bet that you have it.

Exfoliation – the process by which old, dead skin cells are removed, allegedly making skin appear brighter. Exfoliation attacks the top layer of skin, or stratum corneum (a Latin term meaning “scourge of the facialist”), using a course substance such as ground apricot kernels.

Extractions and refinements – using language disturbingly similar to major petrochemical corporations, facialists employ extractions to remove excess oil and dirt. Refinements are using to combat fine lines and dullness.

Masque – any one of infinite substances applied to the entire surface of the face for any number of reasons. Masques can be used to hydrate, to dehydrate, to exfoliate, or to rejuvenate. They come in a variety of amusing colors.

Microdermabrasion – essentially exfoliation on crack, this treatment involves pummeling the skin with minute particles of aluminum oxide, baking soda or salt. The goal is to remove the entire stratum corneum, clearing out pores and evening skin texture in the process.

Peel – also Chemical Peel, Enzyme Peel, etc. A more drastic form of masque used to remove that always-pesky and undesirable top layer of skin. Also used to lessen the appearance of acne scarring and fine lines.

Pores – small openings in the skin that form the bread and butter of the facialist's trade through their remarkable ability to clog.

T-Zone – the skin of the nose and forehead, frequently cited in the diagnosis of combination skin.

Zapper – this may not be a technical term, but it was referenced by a number of my sources. A white plastic paddle, roughly the size of a half-dollar, the zapper is passed over the skin after an extraction to kill bacteria and minimize redness. And, of course, to zap.