Our skin is pretty amazing. Not only is it our biggest organ, but it also acts as a waterproof insulating shield for our bodies. And we subject it to everything!
The skin on our faces is thinner than other parts of our bodies and deserves a bit more TLC. Yet we cover it with makeup, expose it to sun, wind and rain, scrub it, squeeze it - the list just goes on. No wonder we develop skin issues, like wrinkles and dry flaky areas.
Thankfully, you will find some very skilled skin care therapists here on Bookwell, who can help restore your skin's radiant glow. One of our favourite treatments is microdermabrasion. Now, it may not be the most indulgent-sounding treatment, but the results can be amazing.
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive, non-chemical procedure, which basically removes dead skin cells and replaces them with new ones. It works by simultaneously applying and removing tiny micro crystals to your face. The crystals also have antibacterial qualities.
Microdermabrasion treatments are recommended for treating fine lines, age spots, sun damage, clogged pores, uneven pigmentation, and minor scars. It can also be used for conditions such as acne or rosacea, and microdermabrasion stimulates collagen production.
Many therapists and clients refer to microdermabrasion as one of the best anti-ageing treatments you can have.
This treatment is sometimes confused with dermabrasion, which is an invasive, essentially surgical procedure. Dermabrasion removes more layers of skin, and requires a much longer recovery time. Microdermabrasion requires as little as one day.
This isn't a quick fix: your skin care expert will recommend six to ten treatments for best results. And there's a good reason for that. Removing dead skin cells, wrinkles and discolouration is a gradual process, to avoid discomfort or long-term damage.
As with any skin treatment, it is extremely important to always go to a professional. Beauty therapists who offer microdermabrasion must be fully trained and qualified in that field.
Microdermabrasion was introduced in 1985, in Italy. It has gone on to become one of the most popular skin care treatments on the market, for women and men. Not only does it remove dull skin and signs of damage, but it also improves the absorption of skincare products by up to 50%.
There are really no side effects to worry about except, perhaps, a little redness or sensitivity. During the procedure itself, you may feel a little light scratching, or vibration. Your skin therapist will explain everything before you get started, and apply a soothing moisturiser afterwards. The procedure is very quick - usually less than half an hour.
A slightly different technique is Diamond-Tip microdermabrasion. Like microdermabrasion, the dead skin is sloughed off and removed, but this time using a diamond-tip hand-piece. This is excellent for areas close to your eyes.
Sometimes microdermabrasion is combined with a light chemical peel to increase the beneficial effects. It is your choice to make. Please bear in mind that treatment may not be possible if you have open sores or other medical conditions.
Microdermabrasion is an extremely popular treatment in Australia, Europe and the US. In the United States alone, in 2016, more than 580,000 microdermabrasion procedures were carried out. That's got to be a sign that the procedure really works!
You can expect to see noticeable results straightaway, with subsequent treatments improving your skin even further.
Australians have been embracing non-surgical beauty treatments for some years, the most popular being microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and injectables. They represent a more natural approach to anti-ageing, and are certainly much less expensive than surgery.
If you feel your skin could use a little rejuvenation, you can easily book an appointment with a skin expert right here on Bookwell.