IPL or LASER?

IPL or LASER Hair Removal

There are some things to consider when deciding between IPL or LASER hair removal. Below are some popular questions clients ask when making their choice.

Is IPL as strong as LASER?

The short answer is yes. IPL is as strong in terms of delivering results. The amount of sessions required are similar with both systems. In other words, you get the same results in the end. The main different between IPL and LASER is the type of light they are emitting. LASER uses a single beam, whereas IPL delivers a broad spectrum. This means that the system delivers different types of treatments because you have more range in that light spectrum.

What are the advantages of IPL over LASER?

If we are basing it on results, they are on par with each other. Now, based on the comfort level of the service, IPL tends to be more gentle with the surrounding tissue. The reason for this is that broad spectrum we mentioned earlier. Within that spectrum, depending on the person’s hair tone, skin tone, and the number of sessions they’ve had, the machine will filter out a specific depth of penetration that will only affect the target so that the surrounding tissue is not compromised.

Do IPL and LASER hair removal feel similar?

IPL and LASER do not feel similar. With IPL, the system wIll make direct contact with the person’s skin, whereas LASER will hover over the skin.

Another difference is that LASER typically uses a hose that outputs cold air to cool the skin. On the other hand, with IPL, depending on the system, the technician may use an ultrasound jelly to keep the skin cold. Other systems, for example the Sharplight system that we use, uses contact cooling, via the actual window that touches the skin.

Can you switch from LASER to IPL and vice versa?

Yes, you can safely switch because they are both light based treatments. Some differences you may notice are the way the treatments are delivered. Examples include the cooling mechanism, the sitting time, and possibly the frequency of treatments.

When it comes to your currents results, it should not have an effect on your current results or cause any regrowth to happen. If this happens, it’s most likely not the system. However, it could be that your settings are not set accordingly. This is why it’s important to let your technician know that you have had previous treatments, how many treatments you’ve had and also the efficacy of those treatments.

Peace, Love, and Great Skin!

-Dérmica MedEsthetics

PEDI DUOS Every Saturday

pedi duos whyte ave dermica
One for me and one for you ♥️

Saturday special- pedi duos

Join us on Saturdays for our ongoing pedicure deal- PEDI DUOS!

👉 Pedi Duos-2 classic pedicures for $125

This special is not valid with any other offer or promotion. Offer is valid on Saturdays only. Services must be booked simultaneously.

Booking details

If you are unable to book online, call us at (780) 885-7108 to book. In the event that we are unable to answer your call, please leave a voicemail and we will return your call asap.

Boozy Spa

Dérmica MedEsthetics is licensed through the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission. In other words, we are trained to serve alcohol responsibly. We have a selection of popular coolers and cocktails. Furthermore, we have wine by the bottle for wine lovers. Likewise, we have imported and domestic beer for beer drinkers. Moreover, food items are available for preorder.

Specialty Pedicures

Did you know we offer treatment pedicures? Check out our menu below.

PEDÍCARE MENU

Classic PEDÍCARE

Price: $75

Timing: 1hr 15min

Luxury is in the details.
This pedicure service is ideal for feet in need of a professional skin and nail grooming, detailing, and paint service.

 

Gel polish add-on

Price: $5 application fee; $10 removal fee.

Timing: + 15 min.

MINI PEDÍ

Price: $50

Timing: 40min

Bring those little feet in for a treat!
This service includes a foot soak, nail shaping, buff, and polish application.

 

Gel polish add-on

Price: $5 application fee; $10 removal fee.

Timing: + 15 min.


Anti-Fungal Tx PÉDICARE

Price: $125

Timing: Up to 1hr 45min

Fungal growth on your nails can lead to discomfort, deformities, and discolouration. Infected nails are treated to help prevent transmission and further complications.

Your nail care treatment plan will require follow-up service and use of the anti-fungal solution and home care instructions provided with your service.

Includes aftercare: anti-fungal drops.

Ingrown Nail PEDÍCARE

Price: $125

Timing: Up to 1hr 45min.

Ingrown toenails can cause discomfort and lead to infection when left untreated. Pressure is relieved by clearing debris and carefully trimming the ingrown portion of your nail.

A specialized nail brace is secured onto the affected nail to help guide the toenail as it grows and prevents it from back in the tissues of the nail wall.

Includes aftercare: nail softening solution)

Book your pedicure in Edmonton!
Online Scheduling

Peace, Love, and Great Skin!

Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885 7108
dermica.ca

Three guests or more?

Host a Dérmica Spa Party for your next get-together, B-day, Promotion Celebration, or whatever the occasion and make it one to remember!How do I book a spa event?

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Like us on social media or subscribe to our blog for more spa deals. In addition, follow us to enter contests and more.


 

AHA vs BHA

aha vs bha dermica yeg

AHA vs BHA: What is the difference?

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) are both types of chemical exfoliants commonly used in skincare products. Both have the ability to improve the health and appearance of the skin. However, they vary in terms of the skin concerns they address:

1 | Chemical Structure

AHA: Alpha Hydroxy Acids are water-soluble acids derived from various natural sources such as sugarcane, milk, sugar, and apples. Water soluble acids dissolve in water and interact with the hydration levels of the skin.

BHA: Beta Hydroxy Acids are oil-soluble acids, such as salicylic acid are typically derived from willow bark or synthetically developed. Oil soluble acids only dissolve in oil and interact with the skin’s oils and other oily substances.

2 | Depth of Penetration

AHA: AHAs are water-soluble, and work primarily on the skin’s surface to remove dead skin cells, promoting anti-aging, smoothness, and a more even complexion.

BHA: BHAs are oil-soluble, allowing them to penetrate deeper into pores. BHAs are particularly effective for individuals with oily and acne-prone skin types. BHA’s dissolve excess oil, clear out clogged pores, and reduce oiliness.

3 | Exfoliation

AHA: AHAs are effective in removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, leading to improved texture, reduced fine lines, and a more even skin tone.

BHA: BHAs also exfoliate the skin’s surface, but their unique property of oil solubility allows them to get into the pores, helping to prevent and treat blackheads, whiteheads, and acne breakouts.

4 | Skin Concerns

AHA: AHAs are great for addressing sun-damaged, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and surface-level imperfections. They can provide a gentle exfoliation suitable for most skin types, except for very sensitive or reactive skin.

BHA: BHAs are particularly useful for those with oily, acne-prone, or congested skin. They help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation associated with acne and rosacea. BHAs can also be helpful for individuals dealing with blackheads, whiteheads, and congestion.

5 | Sensitivity

AHA: Some AHAs can be slightly irritating to sensitive skin, especially when used in higher concentrations or for those not accustomed to chemical exfoliation.

BHA: BHAs are generally milder and better tolerated by sensitive skin compared to AHAs. Salicylic acid, the most common BHA, has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm irritated skin.

Professional Peels

Your skin care professional will ensure your skin type and specific concerns are considered when choosing between AHA vs BHA acid for your treatment. In some cases, your technician will use both acid types in your treatment, alternating them on different sessions to get the benefits of both acid types. Overall, Acid Peels are a tried-and-true method for treating various conditions and delivering lasting results.


SEE PEEL MENU

What are the Benefits of Back Peels?

back peel treatment yeg dermica

Back Peel Treatment

If you’re looking for a result driven skincare service to treat coarse, hyperpigmented, or acne prone skin, Back Peels may be the ideal treatment selection for your skin care goals. While facial peels are quite popular, their benefits extend beyond just the face. Back Peels are an effective solution to address various skin concerns on the often-neglected back area.

So, what are the benefits of Back Peels and why they are they so effective?

1 | Provide Deep Exfoliation

Back Peel treatments involve the professional application of specially formulated solutions containing high concentrations of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). These potent acids work by gently lifting the top layer of dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and promoting a rejuvenated complexion. Back Peels provide significant improvement in skin texture, reducing the appearance of roughness, clogged pores, blackheads, scarring, and hyperpigmentation.

2 | Control & Treat Acne

Back acne can be frustrating and difficult to treat. Back Peels have proven to be a valuable tool in combating acne and blemishes in this hard-to-reach area. The peels work by clearing and controlling excess oil production, reducing inflammation in acne blemishes, and eliminating acne causing bacteria. This combination not only clears current breakouts but helps reduce future flareups.

3 | Lighten Hyperpigmentation

If you have dark spots, sunspots, or hyperpigmentation on your back, Back Peels can be an effective solution. By accelerating the shedding of pigmented cells and promoting the growth of new, even-toned skin, these peels can visibly reduce hyperpigmentation, revealing a clearer and more even complexion.

4 | Minimize Scarring

Whether you have acne scars or other minor scars on your back, Back Peels can help fade their appearance. The exfoliating action of the peels stimulates collagen production, which aids in skin regeneration and leads to a gradual improvement in the texture and visibility of scars.

5 | Soften Rough Skin

Back Peels not only exfoliate the skin but also help improve its ability to retain moisture. By removing the dead, dry surface cells, the skin’s ability to absorb and retain hydration from moisturizers and serums is enhanced. The result is noticeably softer, smoother, and suppler skin on your back.

6 | Smooth Fine Lines

Even if you’re not experiencing significant signs of aging on your back, prevention is key. Regular Back Peels can be an excellent preventive measure against premature aging. The stimulation of collagen and elastin production helps maintain skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, delay the appearance of wrinkles, and reveal a fresh glow to the skin.

Back Peel treatments offer a myriad of benefits beyond what standard homecare routines can achieve. Whether you struggle with acne, hyperpigmentation, or simply want to maintain healthy and radiant skin on your back, Back Peels are a game-changer.

Acids sound a bit too scary?

Start with a back treatment (formerly known as a Back Facial). The main focus of the Back Treatment is to extract the pores on your back. We recommend adding a BHA boost; Boosts are mild versions of the acids used in Back Peels, and are a great way to introduce your skin to AHAs and BHAs.


Book your Back Peel Treatment!
Online Scheduling

Love, Peace, and Great Skin!

Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885 7108
dermica.ca

Dry Cuticle Treatment

dry cuticle treatment

Q: Dear Dermica,

Lately my hands and cuticles have been very dry. What is a good dry cuticle treatment?


Dry Cuticles/Hands

A: This is a very common issue in Alberta.

Here are our recommendations. Follow through and your hands will feel and look amazing!

Cracked/Dry Cuticles

Dry cuticle treatment requires that you always ensure that you have good quality cuticle oil on hand for application throughout the day. Apply a generous amount and massage into the cuticle and nails. Leave the excess oil to absorb, trust us, it will. Also remember to include your nails in the application, as they can use a good dose of moisture to prevent brittle nails.

If you have inflamed cracks in the cuticles, this is most likely a sign of infection. Apply a small amount of Polysporin™ to the affected area and finish off with your cuticle oil for protection and moisture.

Dry Hands

First and foremost use a good quality hand moisturizer morning, day, and night, and re-apply after washing. Moisturizers specific for hands feature non-greasy formulations, which are great if you’re not used to wearing moisturizer. Some of us though don’t mind the gleam of moisturizer on our hands and the heavy moisture, butters and balms are great for this. Now when heading out apply a good coat of moisturizer before putting on your gloves, the warmth of your gloves will aid in product penetration and keep your hands safe from the elements.

 

Home Recipe Cuticle Balm

    • Melt 1 tbsp of Coconut Oil (great for moisture protection) in a small saucepan on very low heat

    • Once melted stir in 2 drops of Lavender Essential Oil (increases moisture and elasticity)

    • Remove from heat and pour into a small jar with tight lid (lip balm containers work great)

    • Place closed jar in the freezer and let cool for 10-15 minutes (until hardened)

    • Remove and lube away!


Manicures to remove dry cuticles

Dérmica offers manicure treatments designed to provide you with all the benefits of a traditional manicure combined with our treatment approach. 

In essence, our manicure services help improve and maintain the overall health and esthetic appeal of your hands.

Furthermore, our signature touch of luxury makes our manicures a treat for tired hands. Coupled with their corrective quality, they are a favourite on the menu.

MANICURE MENU

manicure whyte ave

Classic MANICURE

Price: $55

Timing: 60 min

This manicure service is ideal for hands in need of professional nail and cuticle grooming, detailing, and a paint service with attention to detail. 

 

Gel polish add-on

Price: $10 application fee; $5 removal fee; $15 removal fee as a stand-alone service.

Timing: + 15 min.

mini manicure whyte ave

MINI MANÍ

Price: $40

Timing: 30min

The Mini MANÍ includes cleansing nail soak, light cuticle & nail care, polish application, and moisture care. Undeniably a treat for little hands! 

 

Gel polish add-on

Price: $10 application fee; $5 removal fee.

Timing: + 15 min.


Manicure Contraindications

Though rare, some medical conditions exist that may present individual harm from a manicure, or a risk of infecting others.

Some conditions are contagious and require treatment before your Service Provider can proceed. Correspondingly, other conditions may require modification of service.

Please review the list of contraindications before booking your manicure online.


Book your manicure to soothe dry cuticles and hands!
Online Scheduling

Love, Peace, and Great Skin!

Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885 7108
dermica.ca

Back Acne Treatment Options

Let’s talk back acne…

Located in Edmonton, Alberta, Dérmica offers a couple of back acne treatment options. Back acne, also known as “Bacne”, can be caused by several factors but seems to be more prevalent in physically active people.

Treating Back Acne at HOME

Besides maintaining proper skin care through professional care, there are other factors we recommend:

Stay on top of your diet
Remember that anything ingested by the body has effects on major organs. Your skin is not only the largest organ, it is the most visible of all. Therefore, it is the window into your internal health.

Consistently wash your bed sheets
Especially if you eat in bed, it is important to wash your sheets approximately once a week. In addition, it is not uncommon to sweat during your sleep. Sweat on your sheets may attract bacteria.

Shower after physical activity
When you sweat during a workout, your pores become enlarged thereby opening up to bacteria. Close your pores by taking a quick refreshing shower. Avoid using a mitt or a loofa as this will aggravate acne and continue the scarring process. Opt for a liquid cleanser that contains salicylic acid if they are still breaking out, or glycolic acid if you are strictly in the scarring period.

Professional Back Acne Treatment Options

facial edmonton

1. Back Treatment. Ideal for all skin types

Our Back Treatment, also known as a “back facial”, is up to 75-minutes in treatment time. It is our treatment of choice for active acne breakouts.

It begins with a deep pore cleanse followed by exfoliation. The exfoliation process removes build up and dead skin on your back. After that, a relaxing steam session warms and softens the skin in preparation for manual extractions.

A custom mask application delivers nutrients through a relaxing massage on your back. Moisture care is applied. The Back Treatment is meant to maintain skin balance, clear infected blemishes, and of course, to pamper ;)

Consider adding a peel BOOST to your back treatment. Peel boosts are classified as mild versions of the stronger chemical peels. They can be used to pre-treat the skin before transitioning into stronger skin peels. Downtime: 24 – 48 hours.


2. Back Acid Peel. Treatment for back acne scars.

Our BACK ACID PEEL treatment is a Professional AHA/BHA Chemical Peel. This treatment is designed to balance the skin’s pH, lift scarring, and help prevent future breakouts. These treatments are ideal for problematic acne prone skin.

WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?

A chemical peel is a medical esthetic procedure. It safely removes the outer layers of the skin through the application of organic acids derived from various natural sources. This process brings fresh new cells to the surface of the skin giving it a healthy, smooth and even appearance.


Curious about chemical peels? Click here to learn more.


Online Scheduling

Peace, Love, and Great Skin!

Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885 7108
dermica.ca

Get in Touch

Sun 10am - 5pm | Mon 10am - 5pm | Tue 10am - 6pm | Wed 10am - 6pm | Thur 10am - 8pm | Fri 10am - 5pm | Sat 10am - 5pm
10518 82 Avenue NW, Edmonton / Get directions
(780) 885-7108 bookings@dermica.ca