We were invited to try the platinum HydraFacial at Skin Solutions in Ballito, currently the only place in Africa offering this innovative treatment.
Simply walking into Dr Naidoo’s new practice in Ballito is a treat for the senses. The space has been elegantly decorated, and the team is welcoming and friendly. On arrival, the head therapist Maxine showed us to a consultation room and began the process by running through our skincare history, regime and goals. She then introduced us to the very high-tech HydraFacial machine, into which our specific data was inputted.
Using the touch screen, Maxine set up a personalised profile, which included the desired outcomes for the treatment – we opted for hydration and a deep cleanse for general skin health, but it’s possible to target a range of concerns, including acne, scarring and pigmentation. In fact, one of the best things about the treatment is that it can be completely tailored according to one’s skincare needs.
The HydraFacial involves a few key steps. First, it begins the process of lymphatic drainage – this particular step is unique to the platinum tier treatment. Next, it works to thoroughly cleanse and exfoliate the skin. Dead skin cells and other impurities are removed by means of a gentle suction while nourishing ingredients are simultaneously applied to the skin. A peel is then applied to your skin, the strength of which can be customised. We opted for an entry-level peel, but your therapist can advise you on the best option. After this step is the extraction process – because this is performed with the machine, it is much gentler and less abrasive than more traditional methods. After the extraction process is complete, it’s possible to actually see the impurities that have been removed from your skin – these are captured in a tube, which is later discarded.
Next come the boosters, which again are tailored according to your specific skincare goals and are infused into the skin with super serums. We opted for a hydrating boost to brighten the skin. The next step, also unique to the platinum treatment, is LED therapy. Here, we had a choice of red or blue light. We went with red, which helps to boost collagen, addresses the visible signs of ageing and promotes circulation. Blue light therapy is well-suited to those looking for anti-inflammatory benefits.
After about five minutes of LED therapy, Maxine began on the final part of the treatment – applying a vial of super-hydrating ingredients to the skin. This helps to protect the skin from the effects of free radicals, ensures a healthy skin renewal process and locks in moisture and antioxidants.
The treatment took an hour to complete, and it felt like our skin had been truly rejuvenated from the inside out. The results – noticeably glowing and hydrated skin – were immediate, and there was no downtime at all. What really sets the treatment apart is that it’s performed completely via the HydraFacial device, rather than by hand. This allows the active ingredients to penetrate deeply and the skin to be thoroughly nourished at the dermis level.
For long-lasting results and to maintain optimal skin health, Dr Naidoo recommends regular treatments.
A range of options
Dr Naidoo and her team at Skin Solutions also offer a range of other treatments, including the ever-popular Fire and Ice facial. This lovely treatment involves two masque applications – one that contains glycolic acid and retinol and feels warm; and one that contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera and green tea, and cools the skin. The treatment, which is suited to most skin types, works to soften and smooth the skin, and achieves a distinctive glow.
Details: Skin Solutions, Izulu Office Park, Ballito; www.skinsolutionssa.co.za; 087 354 9033; IG: @drnaidoo.skinsolutions
