The 'Zombie Facial' May Look Weird, But It Can Bring Your Skin Back To Life

Embodying the pervasive cultural anxieties of the digital age, the word "zombie" has found its way into countless expressions and descriptions. Movies featuring people transforming into the brainless undead have become cult-like, and even rusted-out employees who walk around killing everyone's morale are referred to as "zombie workers." You wanna feel like part of a fashionably challenged crowd with a cause to champion? Join the zombie walk. 

So, it's no surprise the apocalyptic nature of zombies has also found its way into the beauty world. This may sound strange, but there is a facial treatment that gives your face a temporary zombie look before ultimately enhancing it: the zombie facial. 

As the name suggests, the zombie facial is not a visual feast for the eyes, but rather looks like Halloween-themed, zombie-inspired makeup. Think red streaks all over your face and neck. However, you'll be surprised at the end result of the treatment. It will feel like witnessing your skin emerge from the tomb appearing more alive than ever. If you have been battling acne, premature aging, or dry skin-related symptoms, a zombie facial might be what the doctor ordered for a facial revival. 

In reality, the "zombie facial" is officially called DMK Enzyme Therapy. This is a treatment for purifying the skin by removing dead skin cells and pollutants, tightening the skin via facial muscle stimulation, promoting blood circulation, and encouraging the production of collagen and elastin using enzyme masks, according to DMK Skincare. In other words, a zombie facial aims at optimal skin functions. To improve the skin at the core, the zombie facial treatment targets three key areas: the facial muscles, the blood vessels, and the lymphatic system. 

It involves stimulating the facial muscles to lift and smoothen the skin, making it look firmer and younger. In order for your skin to be healthy, it needs a sufficient supply of blood. The zombie facial causes your blood vessels to dilate, enabling a greater supply of oxygen and nutrition to reach the skin. 

The lymphatic system, which consists of lymph nodes and lymph vessels, is responsible for getting rid of toxins so that nutrients and oxygen can get to the cells. If it's clogged, your skin may age prematurely or develop acne. What the zombie facial does is unclog the lymph nodes to flush impurities and harmful substances out of the skin.  

A DMK enzyme treatment typically takes place in an office setting. Within 24 to 48 hours before your treatment, refrain from wearing makeup and avoid sunlight or tanning beds, so the enzymes can work on your skin more effectively, Skin From Within advises. If you have open wounds or sunburns on your treatment areas, hold off the appointment until your skin completely heals.  

During the treatment, which usually takes around 45 minutes, your therapist will apply a jelly-like mixture of enzymes to your face, neck, and décolletage. After the enzymes are applied, you'll feel a sensation rushing through the treated area as blood and oxygen are circulated through your cells. Striations, a network of red lines following the lymph and circulation routes, appear on the skin surface when the blood vessels enlarge, making you look like you're morphing into a zombie. "The more striations, the better the skin's circulation," dermatology nurse and celebrity facialist Natalie Aguilar tells PopSugar. This process will occur for about 10 to 15 minutes. Over time, the enzyme mask will harden like concrete, but you should try not to move so it doesn't crack. 

Toward the end of the treatment, hot towels are used to assist in removing the mask. Your skin is also coated with moisturizer to aid with hydration. After the treatment, you might experience side effects, such as minor swelling, redness, and itching for up to 72 hours.  

Zombie facials carry significant benefits for your skin. It will feel cleaner and fresher as the enzymes unclog the lymphatic system to enable the removal of toxins. As more blood and oxygen flow to your skin, expect healthier and more even-toned skin. The therapy also reduces dark spots and prevents pigmentation. You can also expect a stronger skin barrier and tighter skin as a result of stimulated facial muscles. The production of collagen and elastin during the treatment helps minimize the roughness of your skin and boost hydration, making it plump and radiant. 

The number of treatments you need depends on your needs and your skin condition. According to Jo Coletta Skin, you may see changes in your skin after the first treatment, but a course of three to eight sessions is advised for optimal results.  

The zombie facial is an excellent approach to improving the health of your skin from the inside out regardless of your skin type. It's generally safe and requires minimal downtime. In addition to addressing specific skin conditions, it may also be used as a preventative skincare therapy to minimize acne breakouts and postpone aging signs.