HEALTH+WELLNESS
DR SHIRIN LAKHANI
aesthetic practitioners. As demonstrated by the
effervescent Dr Shirin Lakhani who greeted me with
a firm handshake, a welcoming smile and a thorough
clinical analysis of my medical contra-indicators that
could affect my treatment - how’s that for service.
Medical checks complete, it was time to begin with
a full on facial analysis. Mixed light images were
taken of my skin - a somewhat horrifically-
enlightening experience that highlighted everything
from sun-damage to aging and inflammation to
dryness - that would be used to tailor the steps and
acidity balance of my facial, providing a true
individual approach and more effective outcome.
Charlotte explained I was in need of a thorough
deep cleanse, needed to address some blocked pores
and dry skin, and had areas of high inflammation
that would be targeted with replenishing nutrients.
Comfortably laid down, Charlotte explained
that the HydraFacial is a 6-step process, suitable for
every skin type, that uses patented vortex technology
to cleanse, exfoliate and extract impurities and
dead skin cells, whilst at the same time replenishing
the skin with vital antioxidants, peptides and
hyaluronic acid.
Stage one and two use the same vortex tip, and
having opened up the lymph nodes in my neck and
chest, began with lymphatic drainage. Often referred
to as the most relaxed of the stages, the initial
sensation is of a little vacuum on the skin (think
sucking the back of your hand through with a straw!),
that sees toxins released. Stage two was a double
exfoliating deep-cleanse, to work away initial dead-
skin cells and surface level dirt.
From this point on the old adage that beauty
treatments are either for relaxing or results rings
true, as the vortex tip is replaced and a combination
of glycolic and salicylic acid are applied to the skin.
Whilst not truly unpleasant, skin can feel tingly
during stage three, as the mild chemical peel and
brightening agent properties of the glycolic acid act,
chemically assisting in the removal of dead layers
of skin and reducing fine lines and wrinkles; whilst
the salicylic acid worked to not only aid exfoliation,
but to reduce the build-up of dirt and sebum.
Stage four steps up another gear as an ‘extraction
tornado’ tip is unleashed into the pores. Dispensing
salicylic acid, combined with the natural antibacterial
and anti-inflammatory properties of honey
extract, to soften sebum; allowing impurities to be
drawn out and congestion to be lifted without surface
skin trauma.
It was then time for my after pics - and my after
analysis. They say a picture speaks a thousand words
- my side by side before and afters showed instant
results! Less lines, less pores (less dreaded blackheads!),
and less irritation. I was instead looking at fresh,
hydrated, cleansed and plumper, more youthful skin.
Two days post-facial, (and suffering from the effects
of those rubbish winter viruses), I was told on
numerous occasions that I looked really well - a week
post and my skin is still glowing…
I’m an aesthetics convert and recognise that this is
now the start of a much longer personal aesthetic
journey… I mean imagine the results after a course!
It honestly wasn’t as dramatic as it sounded and led
quickly to stage five’s more relaxed hydration step;
where the skin is infused with wonderful citrus-
fragranced botanicals and hyaluronic acid to aid
plumpness and radiance.
Prior to stage six, Elite also offer clients the
opportunity to experience Dermalux LED
phototherapy (which can also be undertaken as a
standalone treatment).
An LED shield is placed over the face and, whilst
light-protecting goggles are worn, LED light is used
to tackle problems, aid rejuvenation and solve
irritation. My tri-wave session utlised all three lights:
blue (destroys bacteria which causes spots and calms
problem skin); rejuvenating red (accelerate renewal,
boost collagen and elastin and increase hydration
for smoother, firmer, skin); and near infrared
(advanced rejuvenation, calm redness and irritation
and help to reduce pigmentation).
Elite Aesthetics
32 Grove House
Greenhithe
DA9 9XN
[email protected]
01332 561 759
www.elite-aesthetics.co.uk
Elite_Aesthetic
eliteaesthetics.uk
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Before the application of a result-driven anti-aging
serum and factor 50 SPF by Zo Skin for Life to bring
to a close stage six.
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