Summer Ready Skin
With the lure of balmy days approaching, it's the perfect time of year to give post-Winter skin some much needed TLC. Months of skipping between bitterly cold elements and central heating had left my skin feeling dull and dehydrated, making me the perfect candidate for a facial.
Step in IMAGE Skincare, who came to the rescue with a fantastic (complimentary) pro treatment. I'm a big fan of this cosmeceutical Irish brand, which I keep coming back to because their products work for me. Made with proven ingredients and botanicals, the salon-based professional line was created by an aesthetician and formulated by a plastic surgeon.
I always find it reassuring when any kind of beauty treatment begins with a thorough consultation and within minutes, I knew my face was safe in the hands of Kristina, National Trainer for Image Skincare and Aesthetic Therapist at Renaissance Clinic in Dublin. Passionate about helping people achieve optimally healthy skin, she is one of the most knowledgeable and skilled skincare specialists I've met.
Kristina began by assessing my skin needs and concerns, discussing my existing routine in detail and analysing my skin before deciding which treatment would be appropriate for me. Her analysis included photographing my face with a Skin Scanner for a deeper look at issues invisible to the naked eye. My scan revealed some areas of pigmentation as well as dehydration, particularly around the under eye area. Interestingly, I had rarely used an eye cream in the months prior to this treatment, which may have contributed to this. Upping my water intake would help too... (on my 3rd glass as I write!).
Kristina selected the best products to use on my skin for optimum results... and began the treatment with a deep cleanse to remove makeup and speed up cellular turnover, enabling the active ingredients that followed to penetrate deeper for maximum benefit.
The main act was the IMAGE Signature Facelift peel, suitable for all skin types, particularly those who are redness-prone, dry, dehydrated or sensitive... lucky me can tick all 4 boxes!
Peels are resurfacing treatments designed to improve and enhance the skin - and should always be selected according to your skin's needs, such as acne, sun damage or aging. With continued use they can improve skin clarity, even out skin tone and improve texture.
Enzymatic peels use gently exfoliating fruit-based enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells, support skin cell renewal and soften skin texture with minimal irritation.
The Signature Facelift quenches skin and brightens skin producing rapid results in a single treatment, as a 30% blend of Vitamin C, fruit enzymes and Hyaluronic Acid exfoliates, hydrates and provides antioxidants to the skin.
The peel solution was layered with resurfacing and enzyme masks, massaged into my skin and left for 5 minutes to work their magic. Once removed, hydrating serum and SPF were applied to soothe and protect. The entire process was painless, soothing and refreshing - and most importantly, my skin was absolutely glowing.
Kristina added a fine layer of IMAGE i-conceal foundation, similar to a tinted moisturiser, before I stepped back out into the world feeling so bloomin’ wonderful!
Home Care
I was sent home with a set of four products from the IMAGE MD line to treat the specific needs of my skin and continue the benefits of my new found glowy skin.
This prescription strength clinical skincare system was formulated by plastic surgeons to dramatically improve skin's appearance. Most products in the line can't be bought off the shelf and should be selected for each customer by a professional, which I find very reassuring.
In my home kit:
IMAGE MD® restoring facial cleanser - AHA / BHA daily cleanser to exfoliate, gently remove makeup and speed up cellular turnover.
IMAGE MD® restoring youth serum - hydrating serum with high levels of antioxidants to combat aging, brighten and tighten the skin.
IMAGE MD® restoring youth repair crème - nightly repair cream to leave skin feeling firmer and more radiant
IMAGE MD® restoring daily defense moisturiser SPF50 - physical broad spectrum moisturiser to protect against environmental exposure, extend longevity of skin cells and reduce free radical damage. I find this hydrating enough to skip moisturiser and save a few precious moments in my morning routine!
With IMAGE, the focus is all about results rather than pampering, though the products are a pleasure to use. I must admit that while I noticed an improvement in the texture of my skin immediately after my peel, the benefits have increased since using the home care products for a couple of months. While I still avoid going bare-faced in public, I'm definitely happier with the smoothness and brightness of my skin and find that makeup applies much more evenly.
This treatment and most of the products mentioned are only available in salons. To find one near you, please visit https://www.imageskincare.ie/find-a-pro