We all want beautiful skin. And yes, most of us are on a budget. But while there are infinite ways to better your skin at home, when it comes to deep exfoliation – leave it to the professionals. Here are our DIY do’s and don’ts on the trendiest at-home tools.
DON’T TRY THESE AT HOME
Home Microdermabrasion: At-home microdermabrasion machines may slough off some dead skin and create a smoother complexion, but they can also create redness, swelling, and broken capillaries if misused, and especially if overused! We’ve seen the damage done (more than once) on our clients’ faces who’ve tried to take matters into their own hands. An at-home microdermabrasion machine is not going to provide as deep of treatment as a professional machine and will instead cause more harm!
Home Dermaplaning:At-home dermaplaning is arguably the most popular at-home treatment right now. Tools like the Dermaflash remove vellus hair (peach fuzz) and some dead skin. Some reviews claim this can be used instead of a treatment you’d receive at a skin care clinic. These at-home tools will not give you the fully even hair and dead skin removal that a trained aesthetician with a medical-grade blade would. This may lead you to use it more frequently and, therefore, risk skin irritation. You’re also probably familiar with the inexpensive “Tinkle Razor”, our thoughts on this dull blade is that it’s ok for a quick touch-up from time-to-time (think upper lip or sideburns). However, because the blade is so dull (which is great so that you’re less likely to cut yourself), it is slightly irritating to the skin. And regular usage over many years will lead to premature aging and inflammation in the skin.
Home Microneedling:At-home microneedling can just be scary! First, not every skin type is right for microneedling. And second, it REALLY matters what type of skincare products you use after microneedling. However, microneedling can create collagen and it’s one of the more effective treatments for acne scarring. But, when done on skin that is acne-prone, it can lead to infection, more breakouts, and more scarring. Also, without the right home care products, your results will not make a lasting impact. While we do not perform microneedling at Skin MPLS, we are happy to recommend it and refer out when necessary.
Now for some safe and effective at-home tools!
DO TRY THESE AT HOME
LED Light: You don’t always have to beat the skin up to see dramatic results. Exfoliation is great, but over-exfoliation can lead to skin damage. If you are not a professional, it’s hard to know if your skin is over exfoliated. That is why LED is a perfect at-home tool. You literally can’t overuse it! It works like photosynthesis to build cell renewal and is good for everything from aging to acne. Red LED lights work on anti-aging while blue LED lights work on inflammation and acne. We love the brand LightStim, it’s the best there is! These little machines are powerful and FDA approved!
Microcurrent:Simply put, microcurrent is exercise for the skin and facial muscles. It tones and contours and helps with everything from sagging to fine lines. Microcurrent, too, is basically impossible to overuse and you will see instant and dramatic results. NuFACE is the leader in microcurrent technology and our device of choice at Skin MPLS. The NuFACE is the solution for those looking to avoid Botox and fillers. But also, if you use Botox and fillers, microcurrent will help extend the life of them.
Cryotherapy: Skin MPLS is excited to announce La Luer’s new exciting tool CyroSculpt! It’s the perfect tool to use post extractions and to contour the face and fight aging. It involves steel globes that are engineered with cryofreeze solution inside to stay freezing cold and instantly reduce redness, puffiness, and create firm even skin. It’s great for anyone with acne (especially inflamed), prone to redness, inflammation, puffiness or wanting another tool to fight the signs of aging. There are no risks or side effects and the results are quickly obtained!
When it comes to your skin, remember that you will have it your whole life. Don’t risk damaging it by trying to save some money on professional treatments. We understand that not everyone can afford facial treatments every month and we are all about accessible skincare. That’s why we’ve created a menu of facial treatments for everyone. We believe in treatments and plans with lasting results. As far as at-home exfoliation goes, leave it to your scrubs, serums and masks. Let us help you first uncover smoother, clearer and even skin with the right home care products, and then the fancy tools will come!
As an expert in skincare and aesthetics, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to guide you through the do's and don'ts of at-home skin treatments. Over the years, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of various skincare practices on clients' faces, allowing me to discern effective techniques from potentially harmful ones. Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article to help you make informed decisions about your skincare routine.
Don't Try These at Home:
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Home Microdermabrasion:
- At-home microdermabrasion machines may offer some benefits but can lead to redness, swelling, and broken capillaries if misused.
- Professional machines provide deeper treatment, and overuse of at-home devices can cause harm.
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Home Dermaplaning:
- At-home dermaplaning tools may remove vellus hair and dead skin, but they do not match the precision of treatments by trained aestheticians.
- Frequent use may risk skin irritation, and certain tools like the "Tinkle Razor" may contribute to premature aging and inflammation.
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Home Microneedling:
- Microneedling at home may not be suitable for every skin type and requires careful consideration of post-treatment skincare.
- Inappropriate use on acne-prone skin can lead to infection, more breakouts, and increased scarring.
Do Try These at Home:
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LED Light:
- LED light therapy is a safe at-home tool for various skin concerns.
- Red LED lights target anti-aging effects, while blue LED lights focus on inflammation and acne.
- LightStim is a recommended brand, known for powerful and FDA-approved devices.
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Microcurrent:
- Microcurrent serves as exercise for facial muscles, toning and contouring the skin.
- It is difficult to overuse, providing instant and noticeable results.
- NuFACE is a leading brand in microcurrent technology, offering a non-invasive alternative to Botox and fillers.
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Cryotherapy:
- Cryotherapy, exemplified by La Luer's CyroSculpt, is effective post-extractions for facial contouring and anti-aging.
- Steel globes with cryofreeze solution reduce redness, puffiness, and create firm, even skin.
- Ideal for those with acne, inflammation, puffiness, or signs of aging.
General Advice:
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Skin MPLS's Recommendations:
- Highlighted tools like LED lights, microcurrent, and cryotherapy are endorsed by Skin MPLS for their safety and efficacy.
- Emphasizes the importance of professional treatments for deep exfoliation, cautioning against potential risks associated with at-home methods.
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Long-Term Perspective:
- Encourages a thoughtful approach to skincare, emphasizing the lifelong nature of skin health.
- Advocates against risking damage to the skin by attempting to save money on professional treatments.
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Accessible Skincare:
- Acknowledges budget constraints but promotes accessible skincare through a menu of facial treatments for everyone.
- Believes in treatments and plans with lasting results, combining home care products with professional expertise.
In conclusion, a balanced skincare approach involves leveraging safe and effective at-home tools while recognizing the limitations and potential risks associated with certain DIY practices. Trusting professionals for deep exfoliation and adopting recommended at-home tools can contribute to achieving smoother, clearer, and healthier skin.
