If your skin is dull, congested, dry, oily or dehydrated, it can benefit from Leonard Drake's DermTech Advanced Radiant Peel. This treatment combines two technologies - microdermabrasion and Iso-Lifting™ - to increase cell regeneration in a patented process known as Dermoelectroporation™. The result is radiant, smoother skin. Unlike some other facials that leave your face red and raw, the DermTech Advanced Radiant Peel leaves your skin feeling hydrated, soothed and visibly refreshed.
The treatment started with Face Mapping - an analysis of the face using TCM principles. My therapist explained that each area of one's face is linked to one's internal organs, and that blemishes could indicate an internal problem. She did, however, emphasise that pimples and other skin problems may be caused by either internal or external factors, or a combination of the two.
After the Face Mapping, she performed a double-cleansing of the face and neck to thoroughly remove all makeup and impurities. The cleansing itself felt like a mini-facial massage, which I enjoyed.
This was followed by the Aesthipeel™ microdermabrasion, which is meant to exfoliate and resurface the skin. I experienced a mild abrasive sensation as the therapist went over ever inch of my face with the wand, but it was not painful. The therapist explained that microdermabrasion encourages cell rejuvenation and hence helps to speed up the healing of blemishes and scars. However, due to the abrasive nature of this treatment, it is not recommended for people who suffer from inflamed acne, eczema or psoriasis, or have extremely dry, itchy or peeling skin, or skin that has lots of broken capillaries.
Next, the therapist applied a layer of serum over my face and moved a vibrating probe in slow circular motions over my skin. This is the Iso-Lifting™ treatment, which uses alternative current to enhance the absorption of the hydrating serums. The very gentle vibration provided a relaxing massage of sorts and also stimulates microcirculation in the skin, creating a slight toning effect. After the first layer of seum was sufficiently absorbed, the therapist applied a second layer and repeated the process. The Iso-Lifting™ treatment rehydrates skin and infuses moisture into the basal layers of the skin. This results in skin that looks brighter and firmer.
This was followed by a face and neck aromatherapy massage using soothing, calming and anti-inflamatory serums. This was perhaps my favourite part of the whole treatment. It was very relaxing, and I loved the geranium scent of one of the serums used. The therapist explained that one of the aims of this massage is to induce a state of relaxation, because this helps to increase the skin's ability to repair itself as well as to absorb the serums.
The therapist then applied a hydrating mask all over my face, and covered it with a second coal mask. This double-masking technique apparently hydrates skin even further, as well as produces a slight firming effect. After the double-masking was complete, the therapist applied another layer of serum over my skin, as well as some sunblock.
Post-treatment, I was advised on how to maintain the results of the treatment by using appropriate Dermologica products. My therapist also advised me to apply sunblock religiously, drink more water and avoid exfoliating for a week.
What I liked best about the DermTech Advanced Radiant Peel is its instant, visible results - it leaves your skin looking radiant, brighter and refreshed. I was told that this radiance should last for at least three days - more, if I follow up with the recommended products. I also noticed that some of the blemishes on my face looked slightly lighter at the end of the treatment. While it does not completely eradicate all skin problems, one does see results. This treatment is recommended for those who have dull, dehydrated, rough, uneven, scarred or post-acne skin, and should be done once a month for optimum results.
The DermTech Advanced Radiant Peel treatment is priced at $320 and is available at Leonard Drake Skin Care and Health Spa (Plaza Singapura and Centrepoint outlets). The treatment takes about 85 minutes, but first-time customers at Leonard Drake should factor in additional time for a consultation with the therapist.
