Skin laxity is a common sign of ageing and can affect various areas of the body such as the face, neck, arms, legs or abdomen. It occurs when the skin loses its elasticity, resulting in a saggy, loose appearance.
Loss of skin elasticity may present as:
Fine lines and wrinkles: When skin loses its elasticity in the dermal matrix (second layer of skin), it is prone to fine lines and wrinkles. These lines can appear deeper and more prominent over time.
Jowls: As we age the bones tend to shrink, leading to the muscular layer (SMAS) and dermal layer to then droop and create the jowls.
Drooping Eyelids: As with the jowls, this drooping tissue affects the orbital area. Ptosis (the drooping of the skin of the upper eyelid) can be the result.
Crepey Skin: When the support in the dermal matrix is lost or declines, and the surrounding glycosaminoglycans (GAG’S), that provide the cushioning and the environment of collagen and elastin, this depletion leads to the skin having the appearance of thin, tissue-like skin.
Skin laxity is caused by a combination of intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) factors that affect the skin’s structure and function. Some of the scientific causes are:
Age and hormonal changes where the collagen and elastin fibres, which provide support and elasticity to the skin, degrade over time, leading to thinning and sagging. Additionally, the skin’s ability to produce new collagen and elastin decreases with age.
Exposure to prolonged UV radiation from the sun damages the collagen and elastin fibres. This damage can result in the formation of wrinkles and sagging.
Certain lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of sleep, excessive alcohol, and smoking all add to oxidative stress resulting in the skin breaking down and not having the ability to regenerate.
Genetics can play a huge part in the loss of laxity in the skin, and this can happen earlier in some compared to others.
Other areas to affect loss of elasticity in the skin can be glycation, dehydration, significant weight loss and extreme temperature environments.
When choosing the most appropriate treatment for your area of concern there are several factors to review such as
Different areas will respond better to one treatment rather than another, HIFU, RF, RF Microneedling and Plasma Fibroblast can provide more significant skin tightening for moderate to severe skin laxity, while microneedling will address fine lines and moderate skin laxity.
Different modalities are better suited for specific areas of the body. HIFU and RF can be used on the face and body, while RF Needling and microneedling are primarily used on the face and neck. Plasma can be used on the face and body but is not suitable for all body areas.
Depending on your timeline for your result HIFU and Plasma can provide more immediate results, while RF and RF Needling usually require multiple treatments.
Your pain tolerance this also must be a strong consideration for the appropriate treatment.
Budget is also a consideration. HIFU and Plasma Fibroblast are typically more expensive than RF, RF Needling and Microneedling.
What is the primary skin concern?
moderate to severe laxity
fine lines and wrinkles
Mild to moderate skin laxity
Which area do you want to target?
face and body
face and neck
face only
How soon do you want the results?
Immediate
within a few weeks to months
over time with multiple treatments
How much downtime will you tolerate?
no downtime
some downtime
little to no downtime?
What is your budget?
high
moderate
low
It is so important to combine both in Clinic treatments, a good home care regime and a healthy lifestyle in order to achieve your optimum results.
All skin types can benefit from enzyme exfoliation during the cooler months of winter, where hot showers and heaters create superficial dryness. Enzymes are a naturally occurring solution for this challenge by digesting and dissolving dead, dry skin cells, revealing healthy, radiant skin.
Enzymes are primarily proteins that are necessary for life. In the body and cells their role ranges from digestion to increasing metabolism. They speed up the rate of most chemical reactions that take place in the cells, catalyzing most cellular functions.
When applied topically, enzymes are proteolytic, meaning they digest the cells of the stratum corneum – the first layer of the skin. Enzymes break down the old cells that congest the pores and will then prevent the penetration of topical serums, which in turn hinders overall skin functioning. Removing the dead skin cells, allows the skin to regenerate more quickly, assisting with skin concerns such as premature ageing and acne. Other benefits when using enzymes include their ability to increase skin elasticity and hydration by maintaining natural moisture levels in the skin. Enzymes speed up cellular functioning and fight against oxidation and free radical damage, protecting skin from environmental damage.
In the treatment room enzymes and acids can be used separately or mixed, each providing a powerful result. Enzymes in general are less exfoliating than acids like glycolic, salicylic, mandelic or lactic. Therefore, they are more appropriate for sensitive, medically compromised, reactive or thin skin. Introducing enzymes in skin treatments when you are pregnant or breastfeeding is particularly useful to still allow an effective method of exfoliation.
Enzymes:
Mostly sourced from vegetables and fruit such as pumpkin, (the most exfoliating enzyme) pineapple (bromelain enzyme), papaya (papain enzyme), and apples
A gentle exfoliation method but this can be dependent on the pH
Exfoliates the stratum corneum
Less likely to irritate the skin
Function at a wider pH range
Digest dead skin cells
Come in the form of either a gommage, gel, cream, liquid or powder
Acids:
Mostly sourced from milk, sugar and plant-based products
Deeper exfoliation method with progressive, mid-depth and deep peeling levels
Can be an aggressive method of exfoliation
Are both pH and % dependent on the level of exfoliation
Dissolve dead skin cells
Enzymes can be more efficiently utilised in the treatment room when:
The cleanser being used is chosen wisely. A creamy cleanser will limit the exfoliation intensity compared to a foamy or gel-based cleanser.
A pre-peel solution will strip the skin of lipids and therefore facilitate a more aggressive exfoliation
The use of heat and moisture with a steamer or hot towel will amplify the enzyme activity.
Enzymes can be added to many treatments in the clinic room to increase their efficacy. They can be blended with antioxidants, pure vitamins and hyaluronic acid which will increase the support, hydration and vital nutrients of the skin. Some of the treatment modalities which will benefit from the addition of enzymes are:
*Microdermabrasion results using suction and super fine crystals to exfoliate the skin can be amplified when using enzyme exfoliation before the treatment
*JetPeel treatments utilise a medical-grade saline solution instead of microcrystals from the microdermabrasion. The supersonic jet of saline droplets from the JetPeel is amplified when an enzyme solution is used before this step. This has the added benefit of improving the circulation and hydration of the skin
*Ultrasonic skin exfoliating utilises sound waves and vibrations that penetrate through the upper layers of the skin. The Ultrasonic treatment improves the texture, tone and circulation of the skin. The benefits of the Ultrasonic device are amplified when an enzyme exfoliation is used before the treatment.
Enzymes are not new in the aesthetic arena but are worth consideration when wanting healthy, hydrated and radiant skin.
Renew & Revive Skin with a Peel
We all desire a clear and consistent skin tone. However, lingering hyperpigmentation is a constant barrier to achieving this. It impacts every skin type at every stage of our lives, especially when sun exposure, heat and prolonged UV damage are factors. The pleasing news is that with the proper homecare regime and in-clinic treatments, the brown spots can be reduced or removed completely. This will be a consistent programme including prevention and treatment.
Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of the skin with an abnormal appearance of pigment, resulting in darker areas of the skin compared to the rest of the complexion. There are 3 main types of hyperpigmentation: epidermal (surface is light brown and not quite as dense), dermal (skin is ashen-gray and a deep brown and appears more solid), and then a mixture (both of the above levels and is usually dark brown).
There are many triggers creating pigmentation (dyschromias) changes, as well as varying depths of damage to the skin. These types of changes in the skin may occur when melanocytes (colour-producing cells) are either over-stimulated resulting in hyperpigmentation, or they may be destroyed, resulting in hypopigmentation. The colour changes may also be an uneven pigmentation from procedures, picking or scratching. Melasma is denoted by more dense larger patches and is normally created with hormonal imbalance with estrogen and progesterone. Other causes may include birth control pills, HRT, PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), long-term sun exposure, razor bumps, heat, humidity, severe sunburn, eczema, chemical irritations, rashes, abrasive scrubs, medications, chicken pox, insect bites, surgical procedures, thyroid and adrenal disorders.
One thing to keep in mind with most types of hyperpigmentation is our melanocytes are there for a reason, which is to protect the cell initially. We need this in order to help fight against the impact of the UV rays. After this protection process has taken place, the skin is now left with underlying damage which is seen in the form of pigmentation.
The 2 main factors stimulating hyperpigmentation are UV exposure and heat. Wearing an SPF of 30+ each day will assist with this protection. The best sunscreens for hyperpigmentation are typically all-mineral formulas. Chemical SPFs neutralize the UVA and UVB rays, while the mineral SPFs, create a barrier on top of the skin, blocking these factors and protecting it from infrared damage. A huge reminder, even when you wear your hat, sun protection and sunglasses and your face is covered, tanning on other parts of your body can still stimulate the melanocytes.
Hydroquinone is a well-known ingredient to treat hyperpigmentation. It is banned in many countries as it has been linked to possibly being carcinogenic. Our skin is very smart and may develop a resistance, or immunity to it, resulting in a very dark hyperpigmentation, which usually takes longer to reduce.
Other proven ingredients for use in both homecare and clinical treatments include the enzyme papain (from the papaya), and bakuchiol (a retinol alternative supporting the skin’s cellular renewal. When applied topically it encourages sloughing of overly pigmented cells, leaving skin looking renewed and more even), mandelic acid (a water-soluble exfoliating alpha hydroxy acid made from bitter almonds and is generally tolerated well by most skin types with its larger molecular size and therefore slowing the absorption resulting in less irritation to the skin), tranexamic acid (will even out hyperpigmentation when melanin density is connected to sun damage. It is also safe to use through pregnancy), pyruvic acid ( derived from the hibiscus and is both oil and water soluble and has the capacity to brighten the faster by encourageing the rapid cell regeneration), and niacinamide (a vitamin B3 product impedes the production of melanin as it is happening).
Some of the in-clinic treatments available include IPL, Fractional laser,Tixel, Q Switch Yag and herbal and chemical peels.
Protect the skin you are in, it is yours for a lifetime. Regardless of hyperpigmentation’s cause and its associated uneven tone and dark spots, it is essential in Australia to treat and prevent it on a regular basis. It is not a seasonal call to action, but instead a year-round commitment.
Age Spots, Sun Spots, and Liver Spots
Sun spots, known as solar lentigines, liver spots, or age spots, are common dark brown facial marks caused by sun exposure. These are mostly benign but can develop into melanoma, necessitating vigilant monitoring.
Treatment and Prevention of Age Spots Preventing further sun spots is essential, achievable through rigorous sun protection. Treatments vary from over-the-counter creams to professional procedures like chemical peels and cryotherapy, which target melanin-producing cells efficiently.
Seborrheic Keratosis Typically manifesting as dark, rough, raised bumps, seborrheic keratosis becomes more prevalent with age. While treatment is often unnecessary, options like cryotherapy can enhance appearance.
Moles Moles may vary widely and are often checked for signs of skin cancer. Regular dermatological checks are critical.
Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation This condition stems from skin inflammation and can lead to increased pigment production. Options like laser therapy and chemical peels are beneficial for manageing this hyperpigmentation.
Melanoma Early detection of melanoma involves recognising irregularities in moles or spots, guided by the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolving characteristics. Regular skin checks and consultations are recommended for effective management.
Aesthetic practitioners are dedicated to enhancing your appearance and overall well-being through various treatments, home care products and recommendations. However, a few misconceptions and recurrent habits can impact the progress and efficacy of this close relationship. An honest collaboration between aesthetician and client will provide the best possible outcome for optimal skin health.
A survey in the medical aesthetic profession found a few of the most common areas where you, the client, can assist with a more positive outcome.
During the consultation, the aesthetician and the client must be completely transparent about what may be achieved and the desired outcome. We all see the social media before and after photos, and we all want a miracle in a jar, so to speak; this includes me. The results are ultimately determined by age, health, lifestyle and compliance with home care products and applications. Nothing lasts forever, even a facelift. Remember, our body is a continually ageing machine, and “regular servicing” needs to be maintained.
After any treatment, please refrain from touching the skin immediately after. By doing so, the introduction of bacteria can disrupt the healing process. For injectable procedures, this can mean not touching the treated site (unless advised to, and only on clean skin with clean or gloved hands).
Do not expect immediate results, as improvement will vary depending on age, health and healing capacity. This applies to all injectables, laser procedures, skin needling and peels. The older we are, the slower the healing and rejuvenation time for the skin. Be patient and comply with your homecare instructions.
Do not overload on exfoliating procedures at home. Combining chemical exfoliants and mechanical exfoliants too often and aggressively can damage the protective skin barrier, leading to dehydration and eroding the youthful, plump appearance we all desire.
Just because your friend had the procedure and an excellent outcome does not mean the procedure is correct for you. While some treatments may be universal for most skin types, no two skins are identical. This is where the consultation process is required. While one person may require a fractional laser, another may be able to have an IPL for the treatment of colour irregularities and then may need a fractional laser or a course of skin needling to achieve their desired result.
When you arrive for a treatment where heat may be applied – possibly in the form of laser, radio frequency, RF skin needling or even a skin peel – and you have come straight from the gym, a run, hot yoga or even hot coffee – the skin will not be able to cope with the parameters the treatment requires for your desired outcome. If you are unsure of your pre and post-instructions, always call ahead and have them cemented in your thoughts so you and the clinic are aligned with achieving optimal results for your skin.
Always disclose any allergies and medical history, as there are often contraindications to ingredients and treatments. This also includes disclosing any injectable treatments, even if obtained at another clinic, as deep laser and RF treatments and deep massage can create a possible migration or dissolving of the ingredients. This also means if you have had prior treatments at another clinic in a close time frame. With this transparency, the outcome is always a more-than-desirable result.
Rapidly changing skin care products can irritate the skin and disrupt the healing process. Discuss with your aesthetician if you feel a product could improve your outcome.
Daily, we are preaching to use sunscreen, even on the cloudiest of days. Overexposure to the sun is the number 1 reason for skin ageing in this country.
When there is open and transparent communication between the aesthetician and the client, the desired result is so much easier to achieve.
We have all used products where we end up with our skin blocked and spotty. These products can be anything from shampoo, conditioner, moisturiser, makeup or self-tanning products when applied to the skin or hair. Ingredients creating blocked follicles are known to be comedogenic.
A comedogenic component means that it can clog the pores. This is done by accumulating follicular hyperkeratosis – increased keratin production in the hair follicles. Over time, this may lead to blackheads, milia, sebaceous hyperplasia and clogged follicles. These symptoms do not always transpire quickly; it may take months of using a comedogenic product before it becomes obvious. Each person’s skin chemistry can determine the degree of an ingredient’s comedogenicity; therefore, it is highly mutable between people. One person may not react, while another may have disproportionately clogged pores in just a few short weeks.
Even ingredients not typically comedogenic can create havoc depending on our exclusive skin enzymes. Human sebum is inherently comedogenic, so even if you are prone to clogging and try to avoid all comedogenic ingredients, it is not certain protection against blackheads.
Some ingredients that may be comedogenic are petroleum derivatives, cocoa butter, oleic acid, sodium lauryl sulphate, coconut oil, wheatgerm oil, palm oil, linseed oil, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl isostearate, butyl stearate, myristyl myristate, decyl oleate, octyl stearate, octyl palmitate, Isocetyl Stearate, propylene glycol-2, lanolin and coal tar derivatives. It is important to be aware that a product containing a comedogenic ingredient may not be a bad product choice for someone who is not prone to acne and blocked pores.
Comedogenic list inconsistencies are based on numerous elements. First, depending upon the component strength of that ingredient within the formula is vital. A formulation is not only a sum of its parts – component combinations can make a comedogenic ingredient into a non-comedogenic ingredient and vice versa.
Secondly, the process in which a component is extracted and treated plays a role.
Third, the source of the raw material can affect its rating.
Although comedogenicity is not an exact science, there are points to be aware of to help reduce the adverse effects of a product.
Please read the ingredient index list on the back of the bottle or packageing and compare it with the comedogenic list
Ensure shampoo and conditioner are thoroughly rinsed from your hair and keep it tied back at night to help reduce the leave-in residue pressed into and against the skin.
Oil-free does not mean it is non-comedogenic
Do not leave makeup on the skin overnight. Instead, ensure cleansing and toning with gauze and toning lotion occurs. For optimal results, cleansing and toning is done morning and night followed by serums and treatment creams prescribed by your skincare professional.
Using either a retinol, mandelic, glycolic, lactic or BHA serum at night can assist with skin refinement and decongesting the skin
In-clinic treatments can help remove/reduce blockages in the skin. One of the most effective treatments is the Skin Classic, also known as Diathermy. It is an effective and affordable non-laser treatment for minor skin imperfections such as blackheads, milia and sebaceous hyperplasia. When related to skin blockages the Dyathermy will dehydrate the oil and reduce or remove the blockage completely. Treatments are relatively quick, with little discomfort, provide instantaneous results with no anaesthesia and healing times that vary from 5 to 10 days to a few weeks for larger skin conditions. Best results are achieved when used in conjunction with a prescribed skincare routine to ensure the blockages are not reoccurring.
Many factors can lead to comedones, milia and sebaceous hyperplasia, including the skin’s natural oils, dead skin, makeup or other products becoming lodged in the pore. Do your homework with the ingredient index and follow a prescribed skincare programme and the risk of blockages in the skin will be reduced.
The aesthetic profession is in constant flux, always evolving with the latest trends and technologies in health, wellness, and self-improvement. 2024 is no exception, bringing forward innovations that help us look and feel our best, inside and out.
Cold Plunge Therapy and Breathwork
Health clubs, fitness centres, and wellness retreats are helping individuals recover muscles through cold plunge treatments and breathwork practices. Cold water therapy, such as ice baths, has been found to boost circulation, enhance resilience, and reduce inflammation. When combined with breathwork, which focuses on mental and emotional health, these treatments provide a balanced approach to overall well-being.
The Return of the 90s Skinny Brow
The iconic skinny brows of the ’90s are back in vogue, with many top celebrities and beauty influencers championing this look. It’s worth noting the importance of maintaining healthy brow grooming to avoid the irreversible damage seen in the past.
Time-Efficient Skin Treatments
Busy clients are increasingly seeking out efficient, quick, yet still relaxing skincare treatments. Combining high-tech and high-touch approaches, treatments like HIFU GLOW, China Doll facials, Hollywood Red Carpet Facial, Tixel Infusion, and JetPeel offer quick yet relaxing results, catering to the needs of time-poor clients.
Mind-Body Beauty
The future of holistic wellness is mind-body beauty, intertwining mental, emotional, and physical health. This holistic approach acknowledges that overall wellness cannot be segmented, and achieving true health means nurturing both the mind and body in unison.
Pre-Rejuvenation Treatments
Pre-rejuvenation therapies are becoming immensely popular among younger demographics. These proactive measures help maintain skin laxity, even out skin tone, and reduce textural changes before signs of ageing become visible. This trend is all about maintaining a flawless complexion from an early age.
Advanced Fillers
Fillers have come a long way, with hyaluronic acid-based options offering more tailored results. These minimally invasive procedures can restore volume and enhance facial features without the unnatural look often associated with fillers. New techniques, such as injecting fine hyaluronic acid into lip lines, help reduce “barcodes” and achieve a more youthful appearance.
Mushroom-Based Skincare
Mushrooms, long used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), are being reintroduced in modern skincare for their well-documented benefits. Known for their ability to boost collagen production, brighten, hydrate, and provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, mushroom-based ingredients are being revamped and reintroduced in modern skincare formulations.
Embracing Natural Beauty
There’s a growing desire to let natural skin shine through, with makeup being used to enhance rather than conceal. The rise of skin hybrids, combining skincare benefits with a hint of colour, exemplifies this trend. Products like BB and CC creams are evolving to provide nutrients and save time, although they should be reserved for daytime use.
AI in Aesthetics
Artificial Intelligence applications are now scanning skin and providing personalised homecare advice, revolutionizing the aesthetic industry. AI-powered apps can now scan the skin and offer personalised homecare recommendations, making it easier for individuals to maintain their beauty regimens.
Healthy Aging
The concept of healthy ageing is shifting focus from merely looking young to maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit. In 2024, the emphasis is on holistic wellness, ensuring that all aspects of health are nurtured to achieve a balanced and vibrant life.
In conclusion, 2024 promises to be an exciting year for the aesthetic profession, with trends and innovations that enhance beauty and promote overall wellness. From advanced treatments and holistic approaches to the integration of AI, the future of aesthetics is bright and full of potential.
