How to Avoid a Dull-Looking Complexion

If your complexion is dull-looking, chances are dead skin cells are to blame. Dull skin is caused by a build-up of dead skin cells that don’t slough off properly, kind of like old paint or nail polish that loses its lustre. Add winter weather, sun damage and hormonal changes and you’ve got a recipe for skin-care disaster. Fortunately there are a few easy steps you can take to keep your skin looking its healthy, glowing best.

Exfoliate, exfoliate, and exfoliate. If your skin isn’t shedding those dead cells on its own, you’re going to have to do it yourself. If you have normal/oily skin, I suggest using a salicylic acid product, once a week. If you prefer mechanical exfoliation over chemical, try our Microdermabrasion Treatment to physically remove build-up.

What does microdermabrasion involve?
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure in which the stratum corneum (dead outermost surface of the skin) is partially or completely removed by light abrasion.

The removal of the dead skin cells reveals the softer more youthful looking skin cells underneath.

The superficial abrasion of the skin also triggers the body’s own natural repair mechanism which triggers the production of new collagen and releases glycoaminoglycans in order to rehydrate and replenish the recently abraded area. This has a remarkable softening action on surface lines and wrinkles.

The procedure is not painful and requires no anesthetic. Microdermabrasion can be used medically for scar removal when the scar is raised above the surrounding skin, but is less effective with sunken scars.

Microdermabrasion can also be used to treat sun-damaged skin and to improve acne but must be repeated periodically to be effective. Different microdermabrasion methods are used to exfoliate the skin.

At John Fraser Jenkins our CACI Orbital Microdermabrasion uses a hand piece that rotates at different speeds on an elliptical axis. Instead of using exfoliating crystals, orbital abrasion utilizes a selection of disposable, abrasive treatment tips coated with a layer of silicon carbide to either superficially or deeply exfoliate the stratum corneum. The orbital rotation of the abrasive treatment tip performs a progressive and controlled skin exfoliation and polishes and massages the skin at the same time. The speed of rotation, the abrasiveness of the treatment tip selected and the speed at which the hand piece is moved across the skin surface determines the depth of abrasion.

Our qualified and experienced therapists will initially do a lifestyle consultation and skin analysis before proposing a bespoke treatment plan. The treatment itself is painless and the results impressive.  We recommend Aveda’s Daily Light Guard SPF 30 especially after microdermabrasion.

What is microdermabrasion suitable for?
Fine facial lines and wrinkles

Small patches of pigmentation

Acne-prone or blotchy skin

Small scars, fine lines, keratoses, large pores or white spots

Sun damage or uneven texture

What are the benefits of microdermabrasion?
Minimises fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of ageing

Boosts collagen production

Reduces acne scars and inactive blemishes

Improves skin texture and tone

Promotes a fresh, youthful and attractive appearance

How regularly will I need microdermabrasion?
Based on your initial lifestyle consultation and skin analysis, our therapist will advise you on how regularly you will need microdermabrasion. In addition, she will provide you with product and skin care advice to maximise the results of your treatment.

Love your skin!