Microdermabrasion? What in the world is that?? I could barely pronounce it, let alone be able to define it – that is, until my friend showed up with the clearest skin I’d ever seen. I decided then and there, no matter what it was called, I wanted it!
Now, there was plenty of apprehension to go around when I finally decided to make the appointment for my treatment. What was it? Did I really need it? Is it painful? What are the long term results? New to these types of experiences, I began to research the process. After reading up on the basics, I took a good, long look in the mirror. Although only in my mid-30’s, I realized what years of sun exposure coupled with basic neglect had done to the complexion and condition of my skin. Day after day, I would go through my routines; piling layer upon layer of makeup, slathering on the sunscreen (when I happened to remember) and then of course, the unpredictable elements of nature that bombard me regularly. When the evening would come, I’d give a quick rinse of water or use a basic soap only to start over the next day with the same careless attitude. Years had begun to add up and I was seeing those lines, wrinkles and uneven skin conditions that we all dread. I realized that it was time to grow up and get a little more serious about treating my skin right. I figured this microdermabrasion “thing” may be a good place to begin. I couldn’t be happier with the result! But, I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s talk about procedure:
Finding the right medical center should be first on the list. If your skin is important to you than the people you trust to handle it should be equal to the task. Look for credentials, professionalism, experience, and please make sure the staff are people with whom you feel comfortable. After looking into several medical facilities, I decided to hand over my skin dilemmas to Derma Health Institute. They are a physician-based facility and, trust me, it matters! From the moment I made the appointment, the staff was great and treated me with care and complete professionalism. Every question was answered, every concern was addressed. They provided a comfortable and elegant setting and the clinician who performed the services set me right at ease. I’ll definitely ask for her by name next time!
I was laid back in what seemed like an oversized recliner, comfortable and cozy. I decided to arrive that morning with no make-up on. I thought I’d make it easy on them. I learned that regardless how you arrive, they take care of cleansing your skin to start the treatment. A series of exfoliating began and I realized, almost instantly, that my skin had a tightness that I hadn’t experienced before. Hooray for firmer skin! After the exfoliating process, a sequence of moisturizing products were applied. Some of these left my skin feeling a bit tingly and occasionally uncomfortable. I wasn’t sure if my skin was perhaps too sensitive for some of the ingredients being used. However, the tingling sensation was short-lived and the next layer of product created a cooling effect that soothed and calmed my skin. All of these treatments, I learned, were loosening the dead skin cells and deep cleansing my pores. During this time of application, a wonderful face massage is ongoing. This was awesome! Soothing enough to deserve a cat-nap! I loved this! The girl had magic fingers!
In addition to my microdermabrasion, I also had the pumpkin peel. This chemical peel basically took off the yucky layer of my skin and brought out a more hydrated, translucent skin tone. Beautiful! Now, be aware that the effects of this peel are not immediate. A day or two will pass when you experience some dryness and, in my case, a small amount of redness on the cheeks. This is normal. Do not panic!
Once the peel process was over a small tubular device is brought out. The only way to describe this is to call it a “mini vacuum.” This part of the treatment was, by far, my favorite. During this procedure, they literally suction away all of the dead skin and remaining impurities. What a great sensation! I could’ve laid there for hours and had this part of the treatment – how relaxing! Once the “mini vacuum” was turned off, the process took a different turn. I didn’t want to admit it, but I had some problem areas that needed some specific attention. I struggle with blackheads and the clinician realized this right away. She proceeded to “dig out” some deep blackheads and this, I must admit, hurt…a lot… There are times in our lives, as women, when we realize that there will be some ‘pain’ that goes along with the ‘gain’. This was one of those moments. It’s nothing we can’t handle; we just need to be prepared that’s all. Once this was finished (whew!), a wonderful moisturizer completed the session.
Besides feeling completely cleansed, I wasn’t sure if the treatment had really worked. I wasn’t really sure what to expect. The next two days, I noticed a small patch of mild rosacia on each cheek and some minor dry areas around my nose. It was nothing that anyone else would notice, but I decided to worry anyway. One phone call to Derma Health Institute and I realized that a reaction such as this was normal. Due to the pumpkin peel, some dry spotting is to be expected. Again, the staff was wonderful in helping me decide what would be best to maintain a smoother feel to my skin. After reviewing the many different options of skin care products, I decided to go ahead and purchase the Skin Script Night Moisturizer. After one use, I decided that this cream had to have been sent directly from the heavens! I love this stuff! I usually don’t go overboard on paying for lotions or creams, but I have no problem handing over money for this one. Normally, I’d take a bullet to defend my use of Aveda products, but I’ve been convinced! I’ve been using the Skin Script every night and my skin has never been softer. Don’t be deterred by any sticker shock you may feel. Get this stuff, it works!
Although I’m still in the process of paying attention to the long term result, I’ve got to admit, I’ve never been happier with the condition of my skin. I’m getting compliments all over the place! My husband loves this new glow I seem to have and my friends noticed this same difference right away. I think the clincher was when my teenage son noticed, all on his own. In fact, I believe his exact words were, “Mom, you look pretty today. Is something different?” You bet! Sign me up for another session Derma – I’m there!
For more information, see http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com .
No comments:
Post a Comment