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.

Winter Skin: Dr Organics Organic Vitamin E Pure Oil Complex

My skin has been incredibly dry over the past few weeks especially over the multiple ‘snow’ weeks so I went ahead and bought Dr Organics Organic Vitamin E Pure Oil Complex from Holland & Barrett.

The ingredients list looks pretty kosher as is contains a combination of Rose, Rosehip and Jojoba oil all of which are incredibly good for skin regeneration as well as being incredibly moisturising. The texture is incredibly light and is absorbed into the skin well leaving a sheer glow. The scent is also delicately fragranced and non-irritating to the eyes.

I have been using a few drops massaged into my face at night after cleansing, but it can easily be used during the day as part of a morning routine. I have also massaged some onto my feet and popped on some socks before bed and waking up with wonderfully soft toes!

Dr Organics Organic Vitamin E Pure Oil Complex is suitable for vegetarians and vegans furthermore the whole Dr Organics line is against animal testing, double bonus!

Winter Skin: Purity Organic Skincare

Purity Organic Skincare: Conditioning Cleansing Lotion

I am always on the quest for new natural/organic cosmetics and beauty products so I was quite pleased when I discovered the Purity Organic Skincare Range at Superdrug.



I have added the Conditioning Cleansing Lotion (150ml, £4.99) to my winter cleansing routine to cope with the weather. The formulation is quite rich and is definitely moisturising; it also serves as a make-up remover and is fragrance free for sensitive skin. I use it in the mornings and have found it to be excellent as it is extremely gentle as well as having a slight floral fragrance.

The packaging states it is 98% natural and 83% organic and is not tested on animals.

My verdict: Very economical and excellent for all skin types.

http://www.purityorganicskincare.co.uk/

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/