Jhoenna has taken her 15 years of experience in the beauty industry and known expertise to develop the Dérmica line of results-driven esthetic treatments that are sure to surpass your expectations!
How are IPL/ laser hair removal and skin tone related?
IPL/ Laser Hair Removal, Skin Tone, and The Fitzpatrick Scale
The treatment approach to IPL/ Laser hair removal depends on skin tone.The most commonly used guide for selecting the skin type for LASER and IPL treatments is the Fitzpatrick Scale. This guide helps us predict the skin’s rate of aging, risk of cancer, and reaction to UV exposure. The Fitzpatrick Scale ranges from level 1 – 6, with level one being the lightest and level six the darkest.
Different treatment approaches for different skin tones
Levels 1-3
Because lighter skin tones contain less melanin, they absorb less energy and release it faster. As a result, they are less likely to react adversely following LASER and IPL treatments. In addition, less energy absorption allows us to use higher settings in the early stages of treatment which translates into a higher rate of hair reduction.
Levels 4-6
On the other hand, melanin-rich tones absorb more energy. Therefore, a lower setting is required, especially in the early stages of the treatment course. Easing the skin into the treatment reduces the risk of burns and hyperpigmentation until it builds tolerance to the energy. Although we can safely treat darker skin, the rate of hair reduction decreases in darker skin tones.
In short, advanced IPL / LASER operating systems can effectively treat a wide range of skin tones. However, there are limitations to treating beyond a Level 5. Adverse reactions such as burns and permanent scarring can occur due to the pigment in the skin absorbing the energy emitted by the laser.
Combination skin is best described as oily down the ‘t-zone’ and normal-dry over surrounding regions of the face. The condition of combination skin can vary with fluctuations in routine, diet, climate, stress levels, and age. These shifts can cause combination skin to become rough, dehydrated or oily, and blemished.
Combination skin becomes oilier during the summer months due to the increased humidity and heat. The winter months can bring about a dull complexion, coarse texture, and fine lines. This is mainly due to cold temperatures, and artificial heat exposure from heaters.
So, now that the snow is here to stay – let’s talk winter care for combination skin!
How do you treat combination skin in the winter?
Our favourite treatment for instant results and the perfect level of exfoliation is – dermaplaning!
Dermaplaning removes the superficial layers that build up from sun damage through the summer months. Although tanned skin adds a flattering glow to the complexion, it can leave the skin looking dull and damaged. Clearing away the damaged cells that build up through the summer brightens and evens the overall complexion.
There’s nothing like applying your skincare products to a freshly dermaplaned face. Once the skin is clear of buildup and dull skin, it quickly and effectively absorbs products and active ingredients.
Should my skincare routine change during the winter months?
As with any skin type, it is beneficial to adapt your skin routine to the changing climate throughout the year, this includes product selection. Try our Home Care Selection Guide for Winter Skin Care recommendations.
We highly recommend professional skincare products containing hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid attracts and maintains hydration to hold 1000 times its weight in water.Even if you drink 8 glasses of water per day, by the time your other organs have taken their share of water, there is very little that actually transmits to the visible layers of the skin.
Hyaluronic acid molecules act like a breathable capsule absorbing and retaining water molecules, thereby, preventing water from leaving your skin through evaporation.
BONUS…Fuzz-free finish!
Another benefit of Dérmaplane is the instant and painless removal of fine vellus hair. The precise technique and fine blades allow for precision removal and a smooth finish.
Take it up a notch.
An excellent pairing for Dermaplane is an AHA BOOST. The combination of hydroxy acids applied to the skin amplifies hydration levels by pushing fresh cells to the surface. These fresh cells are at their prime for proper absorption and hydration retention and therefore make your skin look and feel JUICY!
Typically in our late 20’s – mid 30’s our skin cells slow down and become “lazy”. They no longer regenerate at the same speed in which it used to in our earlier years.
This laziness creates a backlog of dead cells on the surface of the skin and paves the way for the appearance of fine lines, dehydration, premature wrinkles, and dullness. Sun damage endured over the years now begins to reach the surface in the form of brown spots (hyperpigmentation), broken capillaries, and excessive ruddiness.
Skincare tips: Start It Sooner Than Later.
The first step in the anti-aging journey is prevention. It is never too early to start caring for your skin and preparing for what the years will bring. We recommend younger clients begin with a healthy homecare regimen which includes proper cleansing and hydration day and night.
A fresh cleanse in the morning and daily moisturizer with a minimum 20 SPF, and a hydrating eye gel to keep your eye area looking vibrant.
At the end of the day we suggest a double cleanse to first clear the skin of daily environmental buildup/makeup, and then wash the bare skin itself. This routine will keep your skin balanced and protected throughout the day and night.
For younger clients beginning a professional skin treatment schedule, Phototherapy will deliver immediate results. Photofacials aid in the clearance of fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and tightening of pores and texture. With a refresher treatment every 6 months your skin will defy age!
At this stage in the aging process resurfacing and exfoliation are vital in keeping your cells active, and clear of nutrient blocking dead cells.
Changes and Damage to Our Skin.
The changes and damage to our skin do not happen overnight, and everyday time slowly claims its youth. Therefore, once the skin reaches a more advanced stage in aging, reversing the effects of time is a process that also takes time and commitment.
Understanding your skin care products and the interactions of the ingredients with your skin is important when selecting your products. What may have worked a few years ago may not be ideal for your skin now.
Ensure that your products are age appropriate, targeted to treat your areas of concern, and most importantly protect your skin from further damage with minimum SPF20.
PROFESSIONAL SKINCARE AT HOME
Professional treatments should go hand in hand with clinical grade skincare products to help maximize results. This is why we offer 15% OFF all Glo Skin Beauty products in-store with any skincare treatment.
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How can I get rid of ingrown hairs and bumps on my face and scalp?
Let’ start by understanding the cause of these bumps on the scalp…
Razor bumps are often caused by close shaving and barbering techniques. The shaved areas of the skin endure micro-trauma over the protrusion of the hair follicle. The damage is often due to dull blades, excessive pressure, repeated passes, and/or shaving against the grain.
Our skin’s natural response to trauma is to repair and rebuild the damaged tissue, causing a blockage over the opening of the follicle. This blockage prevents the hair strand from breaking through to the surface of the skin. The hair strand will continue to grow and coil back into the skin causing it to swell.
What treatment is recommended for getting rid of these bumps?
Our preferred method to treat scalp folliculitis is with salicylic acid peels or ‘Acne Treatment”. Known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory benefits, Salicylic Acid is an effective solution for this and other skin conditions.
What to expect during your treatment…
Salicylic acid is applied to the area for 2-8 minutes and can be layered to intensify the treatment. The acid penetrates deep into follicles where it loosens and softens the oils and buildup. This allows for the hair to become dislodged as the skin begins to shed the excess layers above the follicle opening.
The treatment takes 30-45 minutes and may require manual extraction of the trapped hair. The chemical peel process is repeated 3-4 weeks apart until desired results are achieved, on average 4-6 sessions are required for maximum results.
What should I be doing at home?
Products containing Salicylic Acid are great for at-home treatment. Regular use of these products will continue the treatment process and boost results.
TIPS
Proper home care is key for maximizing results and preventing future breakouts. Here are some tips to follow:
Keep the area dry and clean.
Avoid wearing headgear for extended periods.
Do not shave down to the skin with razors.
Use electric trimmers with a guard to avoid close shave.
Exfoliate skin regularly.
Avoid picking at live skin.
While the visibly bumpy appearance on the skin is the most common concern, other far more concerning issues can arise from these bumps on the scalp. These skin flare-ups can cause scarring, permanent hair loss, bacterial and fungal infections. In severe cases, your skincare specialist may suggest a visit with your doctor for testing or diagnosis before commencing treatment.
Our role is to help improve the general health of your skin through professional care, products, and care recommendations. Call to book your complimentary phone consult with one of our skincare specialists!
Yes, IPL Hair Removal does work. However, results may vary amongst individuals. While some individuals may reach desired results sooner than others, we recommend 8-12 sessions for maximum results.
Ensuring your IPL Hair Removal treatments work.
Below are some tips from our experts:
👉Make the commitment.
The length of your treatment course can last anywhere from 1 to 2 years. Your body naturally tries to repair the hair follicles damaged by the light energy. As a result, we must increase the intensity of energy with every new treatment, until we reach our desired goal.
A fresh shave the morning of your appointment will maximize results. All forms of hair removal that pull the hair from the follicle, for example, waxing, must be avoided during treatment course.
👉Attend scheduled appointments.
We recommend facial areas be booked 4-6 weeks apart, and body parts spaced 6-8 weeks apart. Waiting too long between treatments may result in retrograde energy settings.
👉Follow after-care instructions.
Following post care instructions will extend the safety of your treatment at home. Knowing youraftercare instructionswill help you book your appointment accordingly.
” I had my first acne treatment peel a week ago. I have not seen any peeling or flaking…”
Do not fret as you are still in the early stages of the treatment. Patience is key with chemical peels!
The visible reaction caused by chemical peels during and post-treatment varies per individual. There are a few key points we will cover as we help you understand your skins’ response and expectations for your recent acne treatment peel.
1 | The waiting period
At this point, it is too soon to rate the success of your treatment. Your skin is still undergoing the process of lifting the layer of skin that was separated during the application of the peel. Once the skin has fully separated from the underlying skin cells, it will begin to shed. This can take up to 2 weeks.
2 | Not all skins shed alike
When we google or hear the term ‘chemical peel’, we assume our skin will be immediately shedding in sheets or visible patches of skin.
The visible reaction through the healing process depends on the skin type and condition being treated. Oily and acne-prone skin is coarser and has a thicker oil barrier holding the skin cells together. Shedding occurs most during and after cleansing and even so does not flake like a dry skin type. Trust in the process and use exfoliant 2-3 times a week for an added boost.
3 | Number of peels
Peels are most effective when delivered in a controlled manner in order to avoid injury and produce lasting results.
To begin, the skin is treated using lighter peels in order to increase the skin’s tolerance. With each treatment, the intensity of the peels is increased until optimal results are achieved. This measured approach allows for the application of stronger acids with less risk of causing adverse reactions or irreversible damage to the skin. Keep in mind that the stronger the peel, the more visible reaction during and post-treatment.
Although the name and online visuals of the treatment can lead one to believe that all peels should cause major flaking and sloughing, this is not always the case. Be patient with your progress and trust that your skin is operating in its’ own unique way and the skin is rejuvenating on a microscopic level regardless of what you see with the naked eye.
