After several months of sun exposure and dry, hot weather, your clients’ skin has accumulated dull, dehydrated, damaged skin cells. Dead cells need to be removed to allow new one to emerge and help brighten clients’ complexions. The summer can leave skin dry, parched, abused, and sometimes even sunburned. As temperatures begin to turn cool, clients need to adapt their skincare routines to the changes. Here are the four most requested ways to help clients undo summer skin damage and transition into the winter months.
- Microdermabrasion-
Microdermabrasion is one of the most common treatments we see spiking after the summer months. This procedure is non-invasive, and the results are immediate, which is perfect for on-the-go clients who want soft, smooth, and refreshed skin. Because each tip is designed with a specific coarseness grade and size, there is a wide range of treatment options for any area of the body, and microdermabrasion treats almost every skin ailment. Scars, aging skin, acne, ingrown hairs, cellulite, stretchmarks, and enlarged pores are some of its most popular targets. Afterward, clients will likely experience redness and possibly soreness. This will subside within hours. Following the procedure, make sure to have clients moisturize and use SPF on treated areas.
- Freckle and Sun Spot Removal- Following summer, we see a lot of patients requesting information on freckle and sun spot removal. The face, hands, and arms are the first parts of the body that show signs of aging, and that’s no accident—it’s due to sun exposure. Getting rid of sun spots, freckles, and pigment lesions with the proper laser therapy reverses these issues and makes clients look fresher and younger. Clients should wait until their tans fade before coming in for this procedure. One or two treatments of a few minutes in length are generally needed to achieve maximum results, and the appointment can easily be done during a client’s lunch hour. Afterward, the skin will experience a sunburn-like feeling, which could lead to scabbing. However, this heals within one week with the application of ointments.
Chemical Peels- Another popular procedure after summer is a chemical peel. There are different types of peels, but all achieve the same fresh-faced, youthful look. A peel smooths rough, dry skin and improves the texture of sun-damaged skin, and it is a virtually painless procedure that produces dramatic results. We always stress to our potential patients that a one-on-one consultation is necessary to determine whether or not clients are good candidates for the treatment. Ideal candidates have mild to moderate skin damage from sun exposure, aging, or other lifestyle factors and would like a brighter, smoother complexion. Depending on the deepness of the peel, clients may experience mild to moderate stinging sensations that last for a brief time. The acids used at LaserTouch Soho are alpha and beta hydroxy, which are quite gentle and used for most cases. Recovery time from most peels is anywhere from three days to a week. As the skin adjusts to the treatment, side effects will subside. It is always important for clients to use sun protection, but especially following a peel.- Organic Airbrush Tanning- We often see a considerable interest in organic airbrush tanning come fall and winter. Most people are conscious of the fact that they have damaged their skin all summer long, but they don’t want to let go of their perfect tans. At LaserTouch Soho, we use a system that is 100 percent organic, all natural, FDA-approved using paraben- and odor-free formulas containing no harsh solvents. Prior to the procedure, make sure clients have exfoliated and have not applied any moisturizer, as this can clog pores and stop proper penetration of the formula. This treatment can be done during the client’s lunch hour, as it takes about 35 minutes. The results will last for about a week, depending on whether or not they stick to a moisturizing regimen. The tan will fade just as a natural tan from the sun, and proper hydration is the key to extending your clients’ tans.
Mike Sendogan is the clinical director of LaserTouch Soho (New York City). For more information, visit www.lasertouchsoho.com.