PAMPER AND PREEN

YOUTHFUL GLOW

WORDS INGRID NELSON PHOTOS LISA PEARL

I HAD HEARD a lot about IPL (intense pulsed light device), but to be honest I didn’t really know what it was or what all the hype was about until now. Having recently undergone the procedure myself, I now know why so many of my friends are raving about the results.

Like most women in their mid- to late 40s I was starting to notice additional sun spots and pigmentation on my face, as well as a loss in elasticity of my skin (ah the joys of ageing). After doing some research online, I was very impressed with the before and after images showing great results being achieved with the IPL technology.

The team at Suncoast Skin at Coolum off er the very latest in

IPL technology – BBL HERO, which has been hailed as the most powerful intense pulsed light (IPL) device on the market. The revolutionary technology stands for high energy rapid output (HERO), making it faster, safer and more eff ective for all skin tones and types.

Not only that, it requires minimal downtime, with visible results in as little as one week.

Upon arrival at the clinic I was greeted by friendly receptionist Donna Rosenow and, after completing some preliminary paperwork, I was placed in the safe hands of experienced paramedical aesthetician Mimi Chambers.

Mimi explained the procedure in detail and assessed my skin, listening to my concerns and what I was hoping to achieve. She explained the BBL HERO uses intense bright light to heat the upper layers of the skin, which is absorbed by the targeted areas to stimulate skin cells and regenerate them, resulting in younger looking skin while removing redness and pigmentation.

There are several BBL HERO treatments available, all designed to target diff erent skin problems. I had the forever new treatment to target pigmentation and skin tone. Plus, the skin tyte treatment, which uses infra-red light to stimulate collagen and elastin formation to help tighten the skin.

After applying a conductive gel to my face, Mimi used the BBL Hero device to target the problem areas. The procedure is a little uncomfortable, but tolerable. You will experience a slight sting with each zap of the light as well as some intense heat at times as the machine works its magic.

You can opt for a cooling mask after the procedure, which leaves you feeling much more comfortable. However, you will look and feel a little sunburnt for a couple of days, and it is essential you stay out of the sun completely for at least three days. You will be given an after-care sheet with all the information you need for the optimal outcome.

I noticed the pigmentation on my skin did worsen and appear darker for a few days following the procedure (which is completely normal) before fl aking off and leaving me with a much clearer complexion. I have tried several diff erent creams and procedures to achieve a more even skin tone previously, and I can honestly say I have never had such noticeable results. I am now even comfortable being makeup free.

What’s even better is that the results will continue to improve over the next couple of months. What’s not to love about that!

For more information on BBL HERO and other treatments available at Suncoast Skin, as well as specials on off er, visit scskin.com.au. Suncoast Skin is at 2/1820 David Low Way, Coolum Beach. Phone 5293 7644. SPA

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