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Beauty at home
Get rid of pallid, dull skin with the latest at-home beauty treatments.
By Jill Dunn
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Micro-dermabrasion is a procedure that "sands" the skin to refinish the epidermis. Using microscopic particles (usually magnesium or aluminum oxide crystals), dead skin cells are exfoliated, leaving the skin brighter and more even in texture. "Micro-dermabrasion is good for almost anyone who wants to improve smoothness, softness and glow," says Dr. Anne Curtis, a Toronto-based cosmetic dermatologist. Both dermatologists and aestheticians have been offering this treatment for years -- a recent study revealed that micro-dermabrasion is the second most popular non-surgical facial treatment in Canada.
While you'll notice a significant improvement in the radiance and texture of the skin in one professional treatment (which costs around $150), Curtis recommends a series of six (once a month for six months) to see a noticeable reduction in fine lines, irregular pigmentation and acne scars. She cautions people with very sensitive skin, prone to redness and irritation, to steer clear. "These treatments can aggravate such skin conditions," says Curtis.
Home-school
At-home micro-dermabrasion can help to perk up dull-looking skin-minus the pricey visit to the dermatologist. DIY treatments are effective as long as you have realistic expectations. "Since they don't use the same powerful machines used by a physician, you see more subtle results," advises Curtis. At-home treatments are available with either diamond-shaped crystals, similar to those in professional-grade treatments (try Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion in a Jar or L'Oréal ReFinish), or round-shaped beads. "Diamond-shaped crystals allow for a deeper exfoliation than you'd get from a scrub or other exfoliators that have round-shaped beads," says Curtis. One major difference with at-home treatments is the frequency of application. "You have to be diligent when using these products to achieve the desired results," says Curtis. In most cases, she recommends using the treatments two or three times a week.
Polish up
Allison Hegedus, regional director for Vida Wellness Spas in Vancouver, suggests starting off slowly when applying the treatment. "Use the tips of the fingers and gently massage the cream in a circular motion for about one minute on the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin-avoiding the eye and lip contour area. If using a wand applicator (such as Neutrogena Advanced Solutions At Home Microdermabrasion System), don't apply too much pressure. "You don't want to be aggressive and cause trauma," she says. Curtis agrees: "You should aim for a slightly pink tone-not red. If you have acne pustules or whiteheads, massage around those breakouts." Scrubbing them will increase chances of scarring and more breakouts. After rinsing off the treatment, apply a moisturizer to condition the skin. Most at-home kits contain a moisturizer with ingredients like green tea that complement the exfoliating cream.
Finally, don't overdo it. "If you repeat the treatment every day, you're sloughing away the skin's protective layer before it has a chance to regenerate," advises Hegedus.
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