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TURN ON THE RED LIGHT FOR HAIR LOSS

Janine Mendes-Franco

Light therapy has revolutionised skin care. The Celluma RESTORE targets ageing skin and general pain like many other lasers — but its superpower is hair restoration. Safe and non-invasive, it delivers light energy to promote hair regrowth and is effective for a wide range of hair loss conditions.

Who gets hair loss and why?

Hair thinning and loss are more common than you’d think, and can be caused by everything from genetics to stress. Sometimes, inadequate nutrition, hormonal changes, certain medications, or even over-styling can bring on the condition. It affects both men and women, more frequently as they age.

How does hair grow back?

When hair drops, you may think it disappears — but the follicle, which is what keeps the hair attached to the skin, remains. Each of these follicles has a bulb at its base, where hair growth begins. The hair shaft, meanwhile, is made up of the keratin protein. When these areas are working together, hair growth happens. Red light therapy is a good stand-alone option to maximise hair growth; it can also complement existing hair treatments like prescription drugs, PRP, stem cells and transplants.

What Celluma RESTORE does

This LED laser is excellent at reversing hair loss (and preventing further fallout), as well as combating both male and female pattern baldness. It works best for people whose skin types fall between I-IV on the Fitzpatrick scale. It is not recommended for skin types V-VI, those who suffer from androgenetic alopecia, or people who are already experiencing advanced hair loss.

Each treatment takes about half an hour, and requires a 16-week commitment. The laser precisely targets affected areas by stimulating and revitalising dormant hair follicles, increasing blood circulation, and encouraging natural regrowth.

As light therapy technology continues to advance, we have no doubt lasers will continue to lead the way in the fight against hair loss, offering hope and renewed confidence to those afflicted with the condition.

EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT BOTOX (BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK)

Janine Mendes-Franco

Botox has come a long way, and part of the reason is that it has both cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. Not only can it lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, crow’s feet and jowls, it also has a proven track record in everything from pain relief to the reduction of excessive sweating. Here’s everything you wanted to know — and more!

What is it, exactly?

Botox is a brand name for a neurotoxin derived from a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. When injected in small, diluted amounts, it temporarily relaxes specific muscles, leading to a reduction in wrinkles and other signs of ageing.

Botox is also an acetylcholine release inhibitor, which means it can help prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place. This is why more people are starting treatment earlier — before they notice changes in skin’s volume and firmness.

How does it work?

Botox blocks nerve signals from reaching the muscles, preventing them from contracting. The result? Smoother skin, with fewer lines. The treatment, which typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes, is great at targeting dynamic wrinkles — such as forehead lines — caused by repeated facial movements.

Procedure and efficacy

Botox injections are quick and minimally invasive, with very little discomfort, though we can apply a little numbing cream before administering the injections. A week to 10 days before your procedure, you should avoid using alcohol and medications that can thin the blood or raise the likelihood of bruising. Patients typically see results within a few days, and they last as long as three to six months, though regular maintenance is needed.

Post-procedure, it’s best not to touch your face, and to keep upright for at least a few hours afterwards. Avoid placing yourself in high heat situations for at leat 24 hours after the treatment, which means no exercise, hot showers, or extended sun exposure. You should also avoid wearing anything tight on your head — the idea is to let the Botox infiltrate the targeted areas, rather than being diffused into other parts of the face.

Medical applications

If you had any doubt whether or not Botox is safe, rest assured it is used to great effect for treating conditions like chronic migraines, hyperhidrosis, lazy eye, muscle spasms, and even overactive bladder.

Adverse effects

Botox may cause temporary bruising, swelling, and redness at the injection site. In rare cases, there may be muscle weakness, drooping eyelids, or asymmetrical facial expressions. It's therefore crucial to choose a skilled professional when doing the treatment — and to disclose your health history, allergies, and medications to your dermatologist. Pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding should avoid this treatment.

There is no doubt that Botox has revolutionised the field of cosmetic enhancements, offering a non-surgical approach to smoother, youthful-looking skin. Whether you should use it depends entirely on your personal skincare goals and concerns; either way, you should make an informed decision after proper consultation with your doctor. Remember, beauty is a personal journey, and confidence first shines from within.

FILLING YOUR FACE: THE DOs & DON’Ts OF DERMAL FILLERS

Janine Mendes-Franco

“Everything in moderation” is good advice. If you treat fillers like a tool — knowing when, where, and how much to use — there are undoubtedly benefits. However, fillers have now become trendy to the point of overuse, which can be problematic.

How they work

Fillers are injectables that plump up your face with the aim of smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, so target areas include the eyes, mouth, cheeks and nose. For older skin that retains less collagen and therefore less elasticity, the results are immediate and can last for years — but a good dermatologist will (and should) dissuade anyone from using fillers if there is no need.

The fine line of self-perception

For some people, cosmetic “touch-ups” like fillers become almost addictive, and can feed a mental health disorder known as body dysmorphia, whereby perceived physical flaws become overwhelming to the point of obsession. Patients with this disorder — and sadly, we have seen an uptick in the condition since COVID, when social interaction relied heavily on cameras — may turn to cosmetic procedures to fix their perceived imperfections. While this may provide temporary relief, the anxiety almost always returns, creating a vicious cycle.

This type of distorted self-image affects ageing women just as easily as it does young girls. Media is a powerful driver, and many consumers are tricked into thinking celebrities actually look flawless in real life, not understanding that their “perfection” is achieved through a combination of professional makeup, studio lighting, filters and image manipulation.

Dangers of overuse

Permanent damage

There are consequences to consistently undergoing this degree of cosmetic treatment, the most obvious of which is disfigurement. In the desperate search for one very narrow definition of beauty, many women end up scarring themselves and, quite ironically, achieving the exact opposite of what they had hoped for.

While subtle enhancements can achieve wonderful, natural-looking results, going overboard can make your face appear waxy and disproportionate. The natural facial structure becomes so deeply buried that the face becomes puffy and distorted. Sometimes, overfilling damages the face’s natural symmetry to the extent that it becomes impossible to regain that balance.

Physical and mental side effects

As with any medical procedure, the use of dermal fillers comes with risks, including allergic reactions, bruising and potential scarring. The weight and density of excessive fillers can put pressure on facial tissue, leading to discomfort — and in extreme cases, pain and nerve damage. Overfilling can also wield negative psychological effects on self-esteem.

Lack of expression

A potential consequence of overfilling is the restriction of muscle movement, which in the face is closely linked to communication. The result? That “Stepford Wives” look — a type of artificial, almost plastic appearance that makes it almost impossible to visually convey genuine emotion.

Cost

While subtle procedures can be beneficial, too much of a good thing will inevitably end up being good for nothing — including your pocket. When filling becomes a hamster wheel, the financial commitment can wreak havoc on your bank account. You also pay in terms of time, as these procedures often require multiple appointments and some measure of downtime.

How to win the dermal filler game

The trick is to remain in charge of your choices. Through a combination of moderation and trusted, professional advice that takes your specific concerns into account, you can navigate cosmetic enhancements with logic and grace.

If you make the decision to try fillers, it’s important to manage your expectations. Whether you love the result, or expected a more dramatic change, it’s easy to assume that more equals better, or even younger. In the case of all cosmetic procedures, though, it boils down to each person’s unique experience — and we often find that less is more.

There is no one standard of beauty, and your health and well-being should always be priority number one. Embracing yourself in all your unique diversity and imperfection is one of the most powerful statements of self-acceptance there is. Beauty standards that produce cookie cutter looks soon fall away. Originality — and being comfortable in your own skin — that’s the type of beauty that endures.

RAISE YOUR GLASS!

Janine Mendes-Franco

To the bride and groom, sure — but also, to your own amazing skin! Is it possible to achieve that super-hydrated, perfect-to-the-touch, IG-ready skin without filters or Photoshop? Definitely! As we always say, beautiful skin starts from the inside, out. Here’s how to get your skin that glassy, classy look… 

Double Cleanse

Gentle cleansers are the first step to achieving this flawless look — and you need to do it twice — after all, healthy skin begins with a clean canvas. Avoid harsh cleansers that strip skin, leaving it dry and susceptible to breakouts and dullness. Instead, choose products like SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel, which clears pores and smoothes skin, or SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser, which gently exfoliates while deep cleaning, moisturising and brightening. Finish up your cleanse with SkinCeuticals Soothing Cleanser or similar foaming wash, and check out the cleansers we recommend for various ages and skin types, here.

Exfoliate 

Next, exfoliate. Consider this something of a spring cleaning to get rid of all the unwanted excess (in this case, dead skin cells and other debris). You should exfoliate at least two to three times a week with a gentle product like SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub, which effectively cleans pores and softens skin without robbing it of moisture.

Tone

Toners actually set the tone for your skin, helping to maintain the correct pH balance. Be sure to avoid harsh toners that strip skin of the natural oils it needs to stay in balance. SkinCeuticals Equalizing Toner gently refreshes skin and restores its even texture while removing excess residue. 

Search for serums  

These are usually rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from the effects of free radicals — which most commonly manifest as premature ageing. Serums like SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic, which contain ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, offer skin much needed hydration, making it plump, firm and radiant, and the oil-free SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator exfoliates while it moisturises.

Apply essences  

A term that covers a range of toners, facial mists and light serums, essences have the ability to penetrate the skin more deeply than say, moisturisers can. Light but power-packed botanicals like SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Essence Mist strengthen the skin’s barrier and reduce inflammation. Just spritz on throughout the day — even over makeup — for all-day hydration. You will feel so pampered! SkinCeuticals Metacell Renewal B3, a lightweight emulsion that contains niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3 that prevents flushing), is also a great choice. Remember: the more moisture your skin retains, the closer you will be to achieving that glassy look. 

Moisturise 

To seal in the hydration, pick moisturisers that are lightweight, rich, and easily absorbent. We’ve got great suggestions for different brands depending on what stage of life your skin is at. Adding value to your routine is SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight, which exfoliates and promotes natural cell turnover as you sleep.

Protect 

There’s no way around the sunscreen if you want to get skin as smooth as glass. We’ve got a range of choices that protect brilliantly while moisturising, and don’t feel heavy on your skin, including the broad spectrum SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen, which has the added benefits of correcting discolouration and hydrating skin even as it protects you from harmful UV rays. EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40, which contains hyaluronic acid and gives you the coverage you need while moisturising skin, is also a fantastic option. 

Develop supportive habits 

Skin health is naturally tied to overall health, so make good nutrition choices. Healthy fats found in foods like avocados and salmon help maintain skin’s moisture balance, while a daily serving of fruits and vegetables brings more antioxidant power into the mix. Drinking enough water also goes without saying (skin loves moisture!) — and getting enough beauty sleep greatly benefits your skin.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO GET THAT WEDDING GLOW

Janine Mendes-Franco

Love takes time — and so does perfect wedding day skin! For three to six months before you say, “I do”, rotate any of the following facial treatments in order to get your skin to peak on the big day! (We’re also happy to recommend an optimal schedule based on your particular skin type.) 

Oxygeneo Hydrate facial 

This rejuvenating facial gently exfoliates skin to achieve a smoother texture, and nourishes it by providing the oxygen it needs to generate new cells. The use of pressurised oxygen to the skin’s epidermis results in a noticeable reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Skin looks softer and more seamless, with a healthful, rosy look. Enhanced collagen production will do that — it’s the perfect way to train your skin for that blissful wedding day glow

Collagen facial 

The effects of collagen facials are built into our Oxygeneo treatments, which are big on building structural proteins and elastin in the skin, and use all sorts of wonderful ingredients — including infusions of pure gold flakes — to take skin to the next level. Gold, believe it or not, is an antioxidant, and works hard to protect skin against the negative effects of free radicals. Skin moves from dull to vibrant, leaving it looking plump and youthful on your special day. 

Radiofrequency Facial

We integrate this amazing, rejuvenating aspect with our Oxygeneo facials. The use of a heat-generating electromagnetic device helps stimulate collagen and elastin production and gives your skin a beautiful boost, leaving it firmer, fuller and younger-looking. 


These different but complementary elements, integrated into the Oxygeneo treatment, hydrate and brighten skin to achieve that effortless, even glow. 

Chemical Peels 

What? Before a wedding? While you may think of chemical peels as a real commitment with a long and sometimes unpredictable recovery process, medium depth chemical peels, which contain ingredients like vitamin C and salicylic acid, are great at removing dead skin, leaving you with a rejuvenated look. It’s also quite effective in combating acne and hyperpigmentation. We tend to be conservative with chemical peels because skin of colour can sometimes react more harshly — but a properly timed chemical peel can really do a lot for your wedding day-ready skin. 

Dermaplaning Facial

This is a targeted, results-oriented treatment for brides-to-be, though women with sensitive skin, or who battle with breakouts, may want to think twice, as these skin types are more prone to inflammation. A scalpel-like tool quickly and painlessly exfoliates skin and removes dead cells. There is absolutely no downtime, and the results are instant! Bonus: serums are absorbed even better into your skin, yielding even better results.

Custom Facial

We believe in these because your skin is as unique as you are. We can literally offer you a bespoke treatment that takes your specific concerns into consideration, and treats you on the basis of what’s important to you. Naturally, a custom facial will include some of the same steps you’re used to — cleansing, exfoliating, extracting — but we can also mix and match important elements like serums, hydration, micro-currents. and approaches to skin stimulation. Nothing makes you feel as pampered and special as a custom facial closer to the big day! 

Microdermabrasion with LED light therapy

We all know the power of light when it comes to stimulating skin and improving its look, feel and overall health. In this potent facial, we use the power of LED lights to help stimulate and increase cell turnover and collagen production. Apart from more voluminous skin, benefits include the diminishing of fine lines and wrinkles, fewer breakouts, and a more even, seamless complexion.

Come to think of it, you don’t actually need to be the bride to take advantage of these amazing combos. Whether you’re a bridesmaid, a guest, or avoiding wedding season altogether, our fabulous facials will always work hard to get your skin glowing!