We were excited to introduce the HIFU facial last spring into all our GLOW salons. A year on, HIFU specialist and GLOW therapist Niki explains why she loves this treatment so much and how to get the most from it.
‘Sara was looking for an advanced facial which would both treat skin and lift muscle. We already offer the incredibly successful CACI non-surgical face lift, yet some of our clients felt they needed something more, without going “under the knife”. After months of research during the long winter lockdown, we reopened our doors offering the non-invasive HIFU treatment (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound).’
HIFU has proved to be immensely popular.
- muscle is tightened
- skin texture improved
- fine lines and wrinkles are plumped
- skin glows
And all using the body’s natural resources.
How does it HIFU work?
Ultrasound is used to treat the deep SMAS layer of the skin, says Niki, triggering a recovery in which, as the muscle heals, it tightens and lifts over a 12-week period.
The second stage focuses on the epidermis stimulating collagen and elastin production, giving skin an immediate glow. Over the following 12 weeks your skin’s texture improves while fine lines and wrinkles are visibly reduced. Your skin will be plumper, tighter and lifted.
Niki adds ‘Clients who have returned for their second HIFU treatment have been incredibly impressed with the speed of results. In some cases, results have been immediate with muscle bouncing back and skin glowing.’
However, says Niki, ‘As impressive as HIFU results are, they are not a miracle cure once-a-year quick fix. I recommend to my clients that they continue to have a CACI facial at least every six weeks. This ensures muscle remains lifted and your skin is in tip top condition. The same goes for HIFU prep – the better condition your skin is in, the better the results.’
Pre HIFU treatment
To get skin into the best condition I highly recommend my clients use Dermaquest B5 serum to increase levels of Hyaluronic acid in the dermis, says Niki. For me this is GLOW’s star product – it outsells all other products on our shelves. After four weeks of using it the results speak for themselves: skin is hydrated from the inside out.
It’s also essential to use SPF daily. Apply after your moisturiser. Remember that any SPF included in moisturiser will not protect your skin all day, additional SPF will need to be applied.
If you have not had a facial in a long time, Niki also recommends you have a couple of CACI facials to strengthen the muscles in preparation for your HIFU treatment.
Acids are to be avoided for two weeks prior to treatment, along with self-tan. Sunbathing should also be avoided so ensure you wear a hat and apply SPF as sun burnt skin cannot be treated.
Pre-treatment HIFU consultation
Clients often ask whether HIFU is painful, says Niki. ‘Clients have reported varying degrees of discomfort. This is why at your in-depth pre-treatment consultation we test the ultrasound on your cheek area to gauge your level of discomfort. It also ensures you don’t have a reaction to the treatment.’
HIFU treatment behind the scenes
Aftercare
After your HIFU treatment drink plenty of water to help eliminate toxins and waste from the body. Also avoid alcohol for a few days and acids for two weeks, stay out of the sun and don’t have hot showers or baths.
Post HIFU Treatment
HIFU results are amazing says Niki. There is no denying this, the mirror doesn’t lie! Although results take up to 12 weeks to be fully visible due to the healing process, immediately afterwards the skin is glowing and plumped. After six weeks there is a visible reduction in depth of lines and wrinkles.
To maintain your results, and to make the most of your treatment, Niki recommends a CACI facial at least every six weeks. She also suggests adding a Dermaquest Sweet treatment into your routine to ensure the texture of your skin in tip top condition.
HIFU is available at all three GLOW salons
To book a complimentary in-depth consultation with one of our HIFU specialists call…