Are you looking for a way to rejuvenate your skin? (Of course, who isn't?) Medspa facials are cosmetic procedures that use advanced aesthetic techniques to help you achieve a more youthful and vibrant complexion. But what are these innovative facials, who can perform them, and what do they do? We're so glad you asked. Here's a glossary to help you on your way to beauty that's skin deep-er.
IPL Photofacials
An IPL facial works by using intense pulsed light (IPL) to target and destroy damaged skin cells. The light is absorbed by the pigment in the skin, which breaks down the damaged cells. This process helps to reduce wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of aging while also stimulating collagen production. The result is smoother, firmer skin with improved tone and texture.
Chemical Peels
There are different levels and grades of chemical peels. In general, a facialist will apply chemicals to the face (or body) that strip the top layer or layers of skin, helping remove dead cells and promoting new cell growth. They help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots and improve overall skin tone.
Light Therapy
Light therapy is another popular facial option. This type of treatment uses LED lights to stimulate collagen production and improve circulation in the face.
Depending on the light frequency (or color of the light), you can address different concerns. For example, red light is thought to help with inflammation, and blue light effectively targets acne-causing bacteria.
Cryo Facials
Cryotherapy is responsible for the latest craze in med spa facials: cryofacials. Your facialist will use cryo technology to stimulate circulation, reduce inflammation, shrink pores, and tighten skin. Unlike some procedures, you will leave a cryo facial with immediately dewy skin, ready for your close-up.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that is used to treat skin concerns by stimulating collagen production. It involves using thin needles to make tiny holes in the top layer of the skin, which triggers the body's natural healing process and encourages new collagen and elastin growth. This can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, acne scars, age spots, and other skin imperfections.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a popular facial treatment that helps to improve the overall tone and texture of the skin. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses tiny exfoliating crystals to gently remove the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing healthier, younger-looking skin underneath.
Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning exfoliates the skin and removes fine hairs, also known as vellus hair. Your provider will use a sterile surgical scalpel to gently scrape away the top layer of dead skin cells and facial hair. The procedure can help reduce the appearance of acne scars, wrinkles, and other blemishes on the face.
Advanced Practice Aesthetics vs. Medical Aesthetics vs. General Aesthetics
If you're confused about Minnesota's laws regulating aesthetics, you're not alone. They've been (and are still being) patched together slowly.
There are also treatments such as chemical peels and microneedling with split regulations. For example, you might be able to get a superficial peel or micro-needling treatment from a general aesthetician, but not a medical-grade peel or deeper needling.
In other words, when you're choosing a Minneapolis medspa, don't be shy about asking for the provider's certifications. They should be happy to share their experience, credentials, and medical aesthetic knowledge. If they're not, run.
For the record, our Apple Valley medspa has a nurse practitioner, a doctor, and AP aestheticians on staff. In fact, one of our sister establishments in Minnetonka is owned by Barbara Baruth, who started the first AP institute in Minnesota.
At-Home Facial Treatments
Med spa equipment can target deeper layers of skin with more precision and efficiency than at-home devices. Plus, aestheticians have (or should have) years of experience to ensure your safety and improve your results.
Be careful when trying out any kind of over-the-counter microderm or dermaplaning. Follow included instructions exactly and pay attention to your skin's needs. And I know those little microneedle rollers are cute, but the dangers of at-home microneedling heavily outweigh the potential benefits. Stick to facial rollers instead. Apply a serum or cream beforehand so the roller doesn't tug at your skin, which can contribute to wrinkles, and roll away. You'll enhance circulation and benefit from the relaxing effect of self-massage.
You can also use light therapy devices at home so long as you follow instructions and make sure that you have no counterindications. Treat yourself to a light mask or wand for a little extra boost to your anti-acne or anti-wrinkle regimen.
Finally, while at-home beauty experiments with liquid nitrogen are a hard no(!), makeup artists have preached the value of a cold eye mask for years. As always, follow instructions, but go ahead and depuff those under-eyes with a little help from your freezer. Use your mask before your next night out — or maybe to combat the damage you did the night before.
More Questions About MedSpa Facials or Treatments?
There you have it — some of the treatment options and techniques you'll find at our Apple Valley medspa. If you have further questions, just ask us. We're always happy to share information in a zero-pressure environment.
On the other hand, if you're ready, go right ahead and book the treatment of your choice. Skincare is our passion, and we look forward to seeing you soon.