Ask the experts

How can mechanical facial stimulation help with physical signs of ageing?

There are many different ways to physically stimulate the skin on the face, including facial massage, microcurrent, high frequency, electro-muscle stimulation (EMS), cold therapy and mechanical stimulation.

The science behind mechanical facial stimulation is amazing. In the dermis there are important fibres, such as collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, which give structure to the skin. As we age, these begin to break down, so we get sagginess and wrinkles.

During mechanical stimulation, a motorised device stimulates the skin, using a system of suction and rolls and flaps to pinch it. This works in the epidermis and dermis to create a reaction from the skin’s cells. By mechanically stimulating the skin, you can increase blood circulation and the function of the fibroblasts, helping to strengthen the skin’s structure – for example, hyaluronic acid in the treated area can increase by up to 80% after a course of treatments. In addition, there’s no downtime to this kind of treatment as the only side-effect is a slight flushing of the skin.

Mechanical stimulation techniques work well in combination with a wide range of treatments, including microneedling and high frequency. It can even be used prior to injectable treatments to prepare the tissue, and it can be used two weeks after fillers and botulinum toxin injections to help maintain results.

Facial mechanical stimulation can benefit clients who are concerned about visible signs of ageing, as well as those who are looking for an immediate radiance boost from a noninvasive treatment that respects the skin.

Contraindications for facial mechanical stimulation include cancer, infection, inflammatory diseases, anticoagulant medications, blood disease and herpes, while clients with hypothyroidism and those undergoing long-term corticosteroid treatments may not respond as well to the treatment.

Esther Simon is a trainer for LPG, creator of the Endermologie technology.

How can I help my clients to make their tan last longer?

The key to a long-lasting tan is well-prepared and hydrated skin. I always advise clients to start prepping the skin 24 hours before the tanning session – this will include removing any unwanted hair, exfoliating the body and moisturising all dry areas.

After the client arrives, and fills in their client record forms, make sure deodorant, fragrance and make-up are removed from their skin. Always apply moisturiser to all dry areas, paying particular attention to the hands, feet and elbows, because these are areas where tan can cling to the skin.

A professional tan should last around seven days with at-home skin maintenance. There are several pieces of advice therapists can give to clients to help them maintain their tan. The first is to keep the skin moisturised. Hydrated skin will help to lock in the tan, so advise your clients to use a shea butter-based moisturiser in the morning and evening to keep the skin healthy and glowing.

To help a tan fade evenly, advise clients to gently exfoliate with an oil-free solution on or around day three. This will help to lightly buff away any dead skin cells, which helps to keep the tan even and avoid any patchiness. Another option is to top up using a gradual tan solution. This will act as a moisturiser, as well as adding a dose of self-tan.

For clients to benefit from a long-lasting professional tan, therapists should highlight the importance of at-home maintenance, and work this into their retail technique. Ensuring that your client leaves the salon with a moisturiser will not only help their tan stay put for a longer period of time, it will also ensure their skin is hydrated and looked after in between tanning sessions. And by incorporating an exfoliator with a moisturiser and retailing it as an aftercare kit, you know that your client’s tan and skin will be in good hands until they come back for their next professional treatment.

Michaella Bolder is a master facialist, skincare expert and ambassador for St Tropez.