FACE LIFE. FACE FIRST
It’s not a facial, it’s HydraFacial™. We believe that beauty is a feeling, not a physical attribute, and the results from HydraFacial will leave you ready to face life face first. HydraFacial™ technology is unique, and so are the results it achieves. The treatment delivers instant results that you can see and feel, and improves your skin health over time.
WHAT IS HYDRAFACIAL™?
HydraFacial™ treatment is similar in concept to microdermabrasion, however there are differences such as the lack of any crystals used to assist in the exfoliation process, plus the use of a specially shaped spiral tip and vortex technology which exfoliates and removes impurities alongside delivering pneumatically applied serums that cleanse, hydrate and provide antioxidant infusion during the treatment process; something which microdermabrasion does not.
HydraFacial™ is indicated for the improvement in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, congested and enlarged pores (e.g., blackheads), oily or acne-prone skin and hyperpigmentation (i.e. dark areas of the skin, such as brown age spots). The procedure is used in combination with chemical peels, some skincare products, LED lights and different types of tips if a more aggressive treatment is needed.
HOW DOES HYDRAFACIAL™ WORKS?
HydraFacial™ takes its name from the word “hydrate” meaning to “cause to take up moisture”. This ability to actively moisturise the skin during the treatment process sets it apart from all other skin resurfacing procedures available, such as microdermabrasion, chemical peeling and laser/IPL treatments.
The special tip, which is the unique part of the HydraFacial™ devices, is known as the Hydropeel™ tip. The treatment works differently from traditional microdermabrasion due to the spiral shape of the tip, which has multiple abrasive edges, meaning that the skin is exfoliated several times as the tip is moved over it in a planning motion, whilst the serums applied soften the skin and sebum (skin oils) making it much easier to extract away impurities.
During the lymphatic stage, which is performed only during the enhanced options of Hydrafacial™, such as Platinum/Platinum Booster/Hydratight, the treatment uses specific gentle lymphatic massage techniques via the application of a special suction handpiece to assist in the drainage of stagnant cellular fluid and toxins. 33% of the body’s lymphatic system is in the face and this process increases blood circulation and detoxifies, resulting in better overall skin condition.
Finally red and blue Dermalux ™ LED device will be applied to the Hydrafacial™ treated skin to aid skin rejuvenation and acne treatment respectively.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A HYDRAFACIAL™ TREATMENT SESSION?
Hydrafacial™ is generally a mild treatment causing minimal damage to the surface of the skin. Results are subtle and include a freshening in the appearance and texture of the skin.
It is normally indicated for the improvement in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, congested and enlarged pores (e.g., blackheads), oily or acne-prone skin and hyperpigmentation (i.e. dark areas of the skin, such as brown age spots). This procedure is used in combination with chemical peels, some skincare products, LED lights and different types of tips if a more aggressive treatment is needed.
A medical history will be taken to make sure that there are no reasons why you shouldn’t undertake this treatment. You will be asked to read detailed information and sign a consent form which means that you have understood the potential benefits and risks associated with the procedure.
Photographs will also be taken by the practitioner for a “before and after” comparison at a later date. If you have a history of herpes simplex infections (cold sores), an anti-viral drug may be prescribed as a precaution for the course of the treatment.
The tip of the Hydrafacial™ device is passed over the surface of the skin in smooth, stroking movements, whilst the proprietary serums and/or peel products are simultaneously directed onto it and then vacuumed away, along with loosened dead skin cells and other debris. All the waste is retained in a separate closed container to avoid any risk of contamination. A new treatment tip is used per patient.
Skin preparation with the application of vitamin A or C creams and SPF50 will be recommended for up to 2-4 weeks prior to the commencement of the procedure. A similar skin care regime will also be recommended for up to 6 months post-treatment to aid the healthy production of the new collagen and the rejuvenation of the skin.
Treatment sessions will take between 45 minutes and an hour depending on the size of the area being treated.
Many people see visible skin improvement after just one treatment with the results and skin hydration lasting between 5 and 7 days, and sometimes longer, making it an ideal one off treatment for a special occasion or a “freshen-up”. However, a series of six to twelve treatments are usually recommended for improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne and oily skin or areas of hyperpigmentation, with ongoing maintenance treatments every 4 to 8 weeks. A treatment programme incorporating the various serums, growth factors, peel products and LED light will be customised on a per patient basis, depending on the individual skin requirements, in conjunction with an at-home regime.
The specific number of sessions required will depend on the area being treated and the severity of the indication, as well as the level of natural response from the individual’s body.
WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME AFTER HYDRAFACIAL™?
Most patients find that they can return to work and normal activities immediately after treatment. In some very rare cases, recovery may take up to 24 hours.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OR COMPLICATIONS OF HYDRAFACIAL™ TREATMENT?
The treatment is usually painless and doesn’t irritate the skin greatly. A few patients may experience some slight tightness and redness of the skin, which may last for an hour or two following treatment. Treatments using peel products may prolong any redness however.
On very rare occasions, redness may continue for a day or so and sensitive skin around the eyes can become swollen, but cold compresses will help to get rid of this side effect.
WHAT IS THE AFTERCARE FOR HYDRAFACIAL™?
It is very important that you follow the advice of our practitioner carefully after any treatment to help make the procedure as successful as possible and to reduce the risk of complications.
Post – treatment advice will include:
• using tepid water to cleanse the face for the first 48 hours following treatment and drying the area gently without rubbing;
• ensuring that hands are always clean when touching the area treated, to avoid infections;
• not applying conventional make-up products to the skin for the first 12-24 hours following treatment, some mineral based make-up products are able to be applied as recommended by our practitioner;
• applying the prescribed skincare products given to you by our practitioner according to the regime specifically designed for you;
• applying a broad spectrum sunscreen product with a high SPF, ideally 50, immediately after treatment before leaving the clinic and when going outside following treatment.
AM I SUITABLE FOR HYDRAFACIAL™?
Treatment is safe for all skin types and colours, including thinning or ageing skin, dry or oily skin and ethnic coloured skins; however those individuals who have been treated with isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for severe acne within the last 12 months, those with active skin infections, such as herpes simplex (cold sores), or with a history of problems associated with skin healing are not suitable candidates for treatment.
Similarly, some medical conditions may be contra-indicated for the lymphatic drainage stage of the treatment protocol. Hence why a thorough medical history should be taken prior to treatment.
It is not suitable for individuals who:
• Have open wounds, cuts or abrasions to the skin.
• Have had radiation treatment within the last year.
• Are pregnant or breast feeding.
• Have a history of keloid or hypertrophic scars or poor wound healing.