Spa F.A.Q.s
Radio Frequency
What is Radio Frequency?
Radiofrequency is an excellent alternative for the treatment of facial and body skin flabbiness. The RC ® Six Power Basic, smart equipment with unique 6 MHz features is designed to obtain a lifting effect in the short term and once beneficial effects are obtained they are maintained over time. The therapeutic action of RadioFrequency of 6 MHz aims to the general revitalization of the tissues through the thermal and electric effects of Radiofrequency on the skin’s structure ́ and specially on dermic collagen. The application of RadioFrequency of 6 MHz allows an
increment in the temperature of tissues without affecting the epidermis. The main goal of radiofrequency is to stimulate collagen production deep within the skin (the dermis and cutaneous layers) while leaving the skin’s surface (the epidemis) relatively untouched.
What improvements can I expect from Radio Frequency?
The effects may be evident immediately after each facial application, in the reduction of expression lines and wrinkles, as well as after the application on the skin of other areas of the body. The interchangeable heads allow the application of Radiofrequency in both, small areas (facial) and larger areas (body). Although you’ll notice the treatment’s tightening effects immediately, the more significant improvements will occur gradually over a period of several weeks or months as the new collagen forms.
What should I know before a RadioFrequency treatment?
The RF waves penetrate the various layers of the skin heating it to a specific temperature for optimal collagen production. Your esthetician will use a cool gliding gel to reduce discomfort and a cooling handpiece for cooling your skin post treatment. You may experience a very mild swelling and redness of the treated skin. But even for people with very sensitive skin the heating sensation dissipates quickly.
How will I look immediately after treatment?
Your skin may be slightly pink and tight.
How many treatments will I need?
Optimal treatment plan is 5 weeks (10 sessions) of twice weekly sessions every 2 or 3 days. Improvement is noticeable after just 1 session with clinical changes being observed from the fifth session becoming more evident by the end of treatment (10 sessions).
INTRAcel RF Microneedling, FRM™
What skin types can be treated with INTRAcel RF Microneedling, FRM™?
All skin types can be treated, as there is no wounding with this treatment. Post moisturizer is recommended for after care.
What can I expect before, during, after the treatment with INTRAcel RF Microneedling, FRM™?
For lower settings no numbing cream is required. For higher setting we use a topical numbing cream that takes 20 – 30 minutes for topical numbing to take effect before a treatment. A treatment then takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on the area being treated.
Aftercare, takes approximately 15 minutes. In total you can expect an INTRAcel RF treatment to take approximately 60 minutes.
There is no downtime and minimal recovery. We recommend the Institut’ DERMed Instant Radiance EGF Serum and Enhancing Protective Cream Moisturizer immediately after INTRAcel RF, FRM™ and then a cool roller for 5 – 10 minutes to create a cooling effect and minimize redness.You can immediately resume normal activities. An SPF sunscreen between 15 to 30SPF is recommended to avoid pigmentation changes from UV exposure.
What is the course of the treatment?
A course of 3 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart is recommended to achieve optimal results. While you will achieve a positive result after only 1 INTRAcel RF, FRM™ treatment, most people respond better after 2 – 3 treatments.
Is the interval time important?
The interval between the first and second treatment must be approximately 30 days. It takes about four weeks for the skin to be fully recovered from the prior treatment, the second treatment must be done after the skin fully regenerates. If a second treatment was done within a month, recovery can be longer than usual.
How long before I see results?
Results can typically be seen about a week after the procedure and the treated area continues to improve for the next two to three months. The effects will last approximately 12 months and beyond.
Dermafrac
How Does it work?
The precision controlled Dermafrac handpiece uses vacuum to pull the skin into contact with hundreds of micro-needles. The micor needles create pathways for the infusion of targeted serums by penetrating the epidermis above capillliaries and nerve endings, ensuring no bleeding or pain. The procedure results in optimal absorption of the serum and stimulates a positive natural response by the body to increase collagen and fibroblast activity.
What conditions does it treat?
Dermafrac is safe and effective for many skin types and has been shown to improve conditions such as: acne, scars, stretch marks, skin dehydration, superficial fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, sun spots and uneven skin tone.
Your treatment will be individualized by the selection of a Dermafrac Serum to target your specific condition.
Anti-Aging: A super cocktail of peptides.
Acne: Lactic and Salicylic acids have the ability to treat and control acne outbreaks.
Hydration: Hyaluronic acid triggers intense hydration.
Lightening: Kojic acid is a natural and effective lightening agent shown to even out pigment.
Will it hurt?
Clients tell us that Dermafrac feels wonderful. The precise engineering of the handpiece prevents any pain and instead provides a pleasant client experience with no downtime.
How many treatments will I need?
Dermafrac is typically administered in six treatments every two weeks followed by maintenance visits every one to two months. Your provider will customize a treatment regimen for your unique skin care needs.
HydraFacial
What is a HydraFacial?
The HydraFacial is the latest technological breakthrough in skin resurfacing techniques that helps to gently rejuvenate the skin. HydraFacial uses specially formulated serums, dermaplaning and suction to:
- Gently exfoliates the outer layer of dead skin cells
- Eliminates blackheads from inside the pores
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles (like ‘Crow’s feet’)
- Smoothes acne scarring
- Lightens hyperpigmentaion spots
- Detoxifies the Lymphatic system
I have sensitive skin. Can I have a HydraFacial?
The HydraFacial is safe on all skin types. There is no redness or irritation from receiving a HydraFacial… just clean, radiant, healthy looking skin. You’ll notice a dramatic difference after your first treatment!
Why do you recommend a series of treatments?
As with any traditional skin care process, the best results are seen with 4-8 treatments.
Microdermabrasion
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is an advanced exfoliation method that has been used in Europe for over thirty years to reduce fine lines, age spots and acne scars and smooth skin texture. It has proven to be a very popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure for creating healthier younger skin by stimulating collagen production.
How many treatments will I need?
Visible results are seen after 1 treatment, best results for skin concerns or conditions are seen with 4-6 treatments.
Are there any side effects?
There are virtually no side effects just an overall fresh, healthy-looking glow.
Is it safe for all skin types?
Microdermabrasion is effective on all skin colors and types. Although for very sensitive skin types we recommend the HydraFacial. Microdermabrasion is a particularly good alternative for skin types sensitive to chemical peels.
Is there any downtime?
No, make-up may be applied and normal activities can be resumed immediately.
Chemical Peel
What are the differences between a glycolic acid peel and a chemical acid peel?
The Hydroxyacid (AHA) or Glycolic Acid also known as the “Lunchtime Peel” is the gentlest of peels requiring little or no recovery time. The Supreme Lifing Peel (TCA) and Perfect Lifting Peel (Jessner like) are true chemical peels usually requiring a five to ten days of recovery time.
What improvements can I expect from a chemical peel?
Softening of fine lines and wrinkles and a more refined skin texture. Leveling of acne scars and fading of hyperpigmentation. A noticable freshness and youthful glow!
What should I know before a peel treatment?
Usually, your technician will recommend a daily treatment regimen of skin preparation products two weeks prior to your first treatment. You should also stop using some products like Retin-A prior to a peel.
How will I look immediately after treatment?
Your skin may be slightly pink and tight post peel.
What kind of discomfort will I feel?
You may experience some mild discomfort and a gradual tightening that eventually leads to peeling of the skin. Peeling is expected and desired. Ice packs or compresses may be used to reduce any discomfort.
Are there any side effects?
Your skin may be slightly pink and tight post peel.
LED Light Therapy
What is LED Light Therapy?
The energy delivered by Light Emitting Diodes (LED’s) enhances cellular metabolism, accelerates the repair and replenishment of damaged skin cells, as well as stimulates the production of collagen.
What does the red light do?
Red & Infrared LED light promotes collagen production, improves skin firmness, increases lymphatic drainage, reduces the appearance of aging and damaged skin, reduces hyper-pigmentation and increases local blood circulation.
What does the blue light do?
Blue LED light is used to treat Acne. The blue LED light is in a very specific light spectrum that is proven by the FDA to destroy the bacteria that causes acne. Even after the first treatment, amazing results are seen by using this therapy on skin with acne.
Is there any downtime?
No. The treatment is non-invasive, painless and there is absolutely no downtime for clients.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
It is safe for all skin types, skin colors and all ages?
Photo-Rejuvenation (IPL)
What is IPL?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology is a treatment breakthrough that can correct a variety of skin conditions such as facial skin imperfections that include; signs of aging, unsightly small veins and uneven pigmentation. IPL Photo Facials can improve skin texture and even the skin color. It offers a safe and non-invasive solution that can be tailored to your individual condition and skin type, providing superior cosmetic results and outstanding satisfaction.
How does IPL System work?
Pulses of a specific type of light (mostly infrared) are applied to the skin. This light is then absorbed by the skin creating warmth. Irregularities such as pigment marks, small veins or clusters of veins will naturally absorb a lot more light, therefore become a lot warmer than the healthy surrounding skin tissue and will gradually die and fade away. The effect of warming the skin and the deeper layers of collagen is that the skin will be stimulated to function more efficiently, producing a firmer, fresher complexion, reducing pore size and evening out skin texture, tone and color.
What kind of results can I expect?
- Elimination or reduction of small capillaries or redness
- Elimination or reduction of pigmentation and discoloration
- Improved firmness to the skin
- Reduction in pore size
- Reduction of fine lines
- General improvement of texture and tone of the skin
How many treatments will I need?
Treatment is usually recommended as a series of 3 to 6 procedures (depending on your skin condition) approximately 3 or 4 weeks apart. Each treatment takes about 30 minutes.
Why is a course of treatments necessary?
By dividing the program into several treatments, the procedure provides gradual improvement with very low risk. There is also very little and often no ‘down time’ compared with the recovery time needed after other types of laser treatments. IPL is a light treatment and not a laser.
How long will the results last?
After completing the recommended treatment course the results for prominent veins and pigment are often permanent. The more subtle rejuvenating results are very long lasting, however, anyone wishing to obtain the optimum result longer term may wish to have 4 IPL Photo Facial treatments each year.
What does it feel like?
A cold gel is applied to the area to be treated. Then, the smooth glass surface of the handpiece (the ‘chill tip’) is placed onto the gel about 1mm off the skin and the pulses of light are applied. You may feel a slight sting and a mild warm tingling sensation.
Who is suitable for treatment?
A full complimentary consultation will be carried out in private with our certified technician. Your suitability will be assessed followed by a treatment plan to suit your individual needs. The consultation provides you with the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Can I have other treatments if I am having IPL Photo Facials?
This will depend on the type of treatment you are thinking of having and you will be advised during your consultation. However, it is often recommended to include other types of treatment into your IPL treatments to achieve overall results.
Important facts to note before undergoing IPL Photo Facial treatments.
BEFORE TREATMENT
- If you have recently been in the sun or on a sun-bed you will need to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks before having IPL. It is important you avoid exposure to the sun and sun-beds for 4 to 6 weeks after treatment.
- A commitment to stay out of the sun is necessary because treating tanned skin increases the possibility of unwanted side effects such as pigment (color) changes.
- If you are pregnant it is advisable to wait until after you have had the baby before considering IPL Photo Facials.
- If you are using or have used accutane you must have finished this medication for at least 6 months before IPL treatment.
AFTER TREATMENT
- In most cases this treatment has very little or no ‘down time’. This means you may be treated during your lunch hour with very slight or no visible evidence of treatment.
- Immediately after treatment you may notice a mild warmth and tingling sensation, this is normal and usually subsides after a couple hours. This can be eased by using cool compresses or Aloe Vera gel.
- Mineral make-up can be carefully applied providing the skin is not sensitive. Mineral make up can also serve to protect the skin from sun exposure.
- Skin that has been treated should be handled gently for a few days. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the skin and avoid exposing it to additional heat or friction such as hot showers, baths, steam rooms, saunas and hairdryers.
- Avoid planning heavy exercise for up to 2 days after treatment, to prevent the skin from sweating and causing redness.
- Use of a high factor sunblock for 4 weeks after treatment is recommended.
Laser Hair Removal
What kind of laser do you use for hair reduction?
At Institut’ DERMed we use a the diode laser (known as LightSheer) developed by Lumenis (the largest laser company in the world). It is approved by the FDA for permanent hair reduction.
How does Laser Hair Removal work?
A very intense beam of light is passed through the skin at the hair root. The dark hair becomes very hot and destroys the cells that produce the hair.
Is the treatment safe?
The treatment is approved by the FDA, who have deemed it safe. The light produced by the laser is in the infrared end of the light spectrum as opposed to the ultraviolet end. This type of light is non-carcinogenic (non-cancer causing). Lasers have been used in the medical profession for more than 10 years and no long-term side effects have been reported.
Does the treatment hurt?
Everyone’s pain threshold is different. As treatment settings vary according to individual skin and hair types, so do the levels of discomfort. This will be discussed at your initial complimentary consultation.
Who carries out the treatment?
All of our treatments are carried out by fully qualified clinical aestheticians who have been certified in laser hair reduction.
How many treatments will I need?
During your consultation we will assess the skin and hair and plan a personalized tailor-made program that will offer you the best results. On average we recommend 6 sessions.
How long does each treatment take?
This depends on the size of the area you are having treated and you will be advised during your consultation. On average treatments last 30 minutes to 60 minutes.
Does the laser treat blond or gray hair?
Very blond and grey hair is not suitable for laser treatment because the laser light can only see dark pigment. Therefore the hair must be dark brown or black to be treated by a laser.
Is there anything I should avoid before and during treatment courses?
A suntan can put your skin at risk and will make the laser treatment less effective we recommend avoiding the sun and sunbeds. Do not apply aggravating creams to the skin before or during the course of treatment. This includes Glycolic Acid (AHA creams) and Retin-A cream. Also be sure to tell us if you have been taking any medication such as accutane, for any period in the year before treatment.
48 HOURS AFTER TREATMENT
- Avoid using perfume, body lotions, after-shave, make-up and deodorant containing alcohol, perfume and aluminium. Avoid heat treatments such as hot baths orshowers, saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzis.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and swimming as the chemicals in the water may cause irritation.
- Avoid facial and body treatments until the skin has returned to normal.
- Do not apply ice-packs as this can shock and traumatise the skin, you may use aloe-vera gel to cool your skin if it feels overheated.
Endermologie
Does it really work?
Yes, it does work, as demonstrated over the past 12 years in thousands of case studies from around the world. It was enough proof for the FDA to authorize the manufacturer to claim temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite. The FDA is renowned for its strictest scientific standards world-wide. Endermology is also used by many celebrities.
How many treatments will I need?
The average number of treatments is two per week. If you are simultaneously in the process of losing a significant amount of weight or if you have a long-term problematic cellulite condition, one treatment per week is recommended. More than two sessions per week will not bring faster results.
How long does a session last?
Sessions are 20 minute or 40 minute depending on each individual case.
Do you just work on my problem areas?
Your problem areas are focused on, but time is given to other areas to stimulate general circulation and elimination.
How many sessions before I see results?
You will usually see improvements within 6 sessions, but 14 is the average number of suggested treatments. Monthly maintenance sessions are suggested thereafter.
Does Endermologie help me lose weight?
No, the Endermologie® machine has not been proven to help with weight loss. The FDA allows the following claims in relation to beauty: to reduce the appearance of cellulite and to reduce circumferential body measurements in cellulite-treated areas, it is not a weight-loss device.
Does treatment work on men also?
Definitely. Our clinical experience has shown excellent results for problem areas such as “love handles” and loose pectoral tissue.
Why is a special suit worn for treatment?
An endermologie suit allows the Endermologie® treatment head to glide more easily over the body and insures optimal hygiene.
What is the difference between Endermologie and Liposuction?
Endermologie®, unlike liposuction, does not involve breaking through the skin in any way. Some people try Endermologie® first and then choose to wait to receive liposuction. Some choose to receive both as part of a dual treatment to their problem. Endermologie® is being used and studied by some of the most well known practitioners of liposuction in the world.
Is Endermologie® painful?
The sensation is similar to a deep massage. Most clients find it very pleasant. The strength of the treatment can be individually adjusted to your comfort level.
What will I feel afterwards?
Most clients report a feeling of relaxation and an increase in energy. Since the lymphatic system is stimulated, it is important for the success of your treatment that you drink at least two liters of water every day during the duration of your treatment in order to aid in elimination.
Are there any side effects?
Usually none, however if your skin is very sensitive sometimes slight, temporary bruising may occur.
Can I recieve treatments of I’m pregnant?
No correlation has been found between Endermologie® and complications in pregnancy. However, it is recommended that during pregnancy you do NOT receive treatments.
Can I have Endermologie treatments if I am planning to have Lyposuction?
Yes! Endermologie® is recommended by many plastic surgeons before and after liposuction (especially after). Endermologie® counteracts the rippling and hard fat deposits than can occur with liposuction.
How many sessions do I need?
Most people usually need anywhere from 14-20 sessions. Experiences will vary based on genetics, health history and the severity of the problem.
What results should I expect?
Most people feel different after the first treatment, and report that their pants fit differently after the 6th or 7th treatment. Visible cellulite reduction becomes apparent after around 10 treatments and continues to improve with each subsequent treatment.