Microdermabrasion: It doesn't hurt!

So, a while back I decided to have three sessions of microdermabrasion at the Renew Medica clinic in Hampstead.

Microdermabrasion is a deep exfoliating treatment that consists of a hand-held device propelling a controlled and high-speed flow of fine aluminium oxide crystals onto the skin to remove the outer layer. At the same time, the machine's vacuum system sucks away dirt, dead cells and used crystals. This action aids to regenerate, repair and gradually correct blemishes on the skin, giving a uniform appearance, firmness and glow. Essentially it is a great way of super-cleansing the pores to refine skin texture and boost production of fresh cells and collagen.

My treatment consisted of my face first being cleansed, followed by microdermabrasion and ending with an extremely relaxing clay face mask. The treatment was not at all painful and the only sensation was of a slight sucking and pulling on the skin. The procedure required no downtime and I wasn’t left red raw either!

The effects were very much noticeable after the first treatment; however I still felt a little congested as it didn’t seem to remove all of my blackheads as I had anticipated. I would summarise my results at the end of three sessions as being more refined skin, more glow as well as slight resurfacing and improved texture.

Furthermore it is important to note that microdermabrasion it is suitable for all skins types, ages and colours, especially as chemical exfoliation is not recommended for darker skin tones.

My most important things to remember if you plan on a course of treatments:

1. Have the same aesthetician each time

2. Ask for the intensity to be increased each time

3. Use a high factor SPF cream

4. Invest in a serum to enhance results.

Products I am liking: Belli Acne Clearing Facial Wash

I wanted to try a specialised acne facial wash that contained lactic acid, rather than glycolic/salicylic products which can be drying and harsh; and eventually came across Belli Acne Clearing Facial wash.

What prompted me buy this was the fact that Belli skincare is actually a specialised pregnancy line and teratology screens each ingredient to prevent the absorption of harsh chemicals linked to birth defects, furthermore every product is allergy tested and free of artificial dyes and parabens. Considering I have quite temperamental and sensitive skin at times I thought I would give this a go.

So far I have used this every night before going to bed, as well an intensive mask leaving it on my face for around 7-10minutes twice a week instead of using another exfoliating product. I have also used it as a spot treatment and left a tiny amount on the pimple, causing it to eventually dry and flake away.

My verdict: I highly recommend this to anyone who has unpredictable and breakout prone skin, as it has produced quite noticeable results for me. It also serves as an alternative to current acne facial washes that contain BHA’s (beta hydroxy acids).

I purchased Belli Acne Clearing Facial Wash (£25 + £2.20 p&p) from The Little Pear Tree - Baby Boutique: http://www.thelittlepeartree.com/