If you struggle with acne, enlarged pores, fine lines, wrinkles, puffy eyes, or dark circles, now is the time to pay attention. High-frequency is a device that increases oxygen to the skin. It stimulates elastin production and collagen in the skin to help solve many skincare concerns.

What Is High-Frequency?

High-Frequency machines utilize thermal current to treat acne, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, cellulite, and undereye circles. High-frequency devices oxygenate the skin and kill bacteria with contact. There are two types of high-frequency electrodes, argon gas, and neon gas. Argon gas is violet and is excellent for acne or oily skin. Neon gas has anti-aging benefits.

Skin aging typically starts becoming noticeable around age 25-30, with collagen production declining gradually thereafter. By age 40, collagen levels may significantly decrease, leading to visible signs like wrinkles and sagging skin. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and skincare routine can help slow this process.

CELL TURNOVER

Cell turnover refers to the process by which your skin naturally sheds old, dead skin cells and replaces them with new ones. It’s like a continuous refresh button for your skin, ensuring it stays healthy and vibrant. As we age, this turnover process slows down, leading to dullness and rough texture. That’s why exfoliation, good skincare and products that promote cell turnover are essential for maintaining youthful-looking skin.

HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY SKIN ELASTICITY NOW?

Below we suggest proven ways – including skincare products and treatments – which will give you instant results as well as other ways which will take time to have a noticeable effect. You can try these methods now to restore your skin elasticity and, ideally, ascertain what you personally need to address to improve your skin health long term; that may be using a better quality sunscreen regularly, adjusting what you eat, sleeping better, exercising more – and complementing these with a good skincare regime and treatments when your skin needs.

SKINCARE

Don’t be put off by the mesmerising amount of skincare available – there are products with proven ingredients which stand out from the rest in tackling issues such as diminishing skin elasticity. Talk to us or another skin expert (your dermatologist, if you have one) to decide which skincare to start with. Some of the most powerful – those containing prescription retinoids, for example – need to be started gradually and prescribed by a doctor. These are things to look for:

– BROAD SPECTRUM SUN PROTECTION

The biggest aggressor to the skin is exposure to UV rays from the sun; daily protection is therefore essential for good skin health and in preventing premature ageing. Sun screen offer vital broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB (as well as visible light and infrared-A), protecting skin at and below its surface.

– MOISTURISER

When your skin lacks moisture, it isn’t able to repair itself and is vulnerable to damage from free radicals in the environment. Using a good quality moisturiser will help hydrate the skin, keeping it supple and radiant, and enable it to fight back.

– COLLAGEN

Given its essential role in the maintenance of skin elasticity, it makes sense to prioritize products which encourage collagen production. Skincare doesn’t contain collagen as such so instead look for the ingredients we mention which stimulate its production.

– ANTIOXIDANTS

Antioxidants may be the unsung heroes of skincare. Using products with a combination of antioxidants – such as vitamins A & C along with coenzyme Q10 – your skin will build up its defence against damaging free radicals. They are easily absorbed by the skin, neutralise free radicals and improve skin elasticity and texture.

– HYALURONIC ACID

Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by your body and is an extremely popular skincare ingredient due to its amazing capacity to hold on to 1000 times its weight in moisture. HA Serums help amplify hyaluronic acid levels in skin to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and skin texture.

– RETINOL & RETINOIDS

Retinol – a form of vitamin A – and retinoids, such as tretinoin, have been shown in numerous studies to be particularly effective in boosting collagen and reversing the signs of ageing. Over-the-counter skincare products contain small amounts of the ingredient but the most potent form is retinoids, available on prescription from. Using both topical retinol and vitamin C has been found to be particularly effective at improving skin elasticity.

– AHAS / HYDROXY ACIDS

Studies have shown that anti-ageing skincare containing AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and vitamins significantly improves the skin, including lines, wrinkles, texture, and elasticity, without significant adverse effects. The acid promotes cell renewal, stimulating collagen and elastin production to improve skin elasticity, minimise wrinkles and imperfections, whilst deep cleansing pores.

– PROVITAMIN B5

Used topically, dexpanthenol (also known as panthenol) acts like a moisturiser, improving hydration, reducing water loss, maintaining elasticity and softening the skin to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. It also heals and protects.

SUPPLEMENTS

Taking supplements may also help boost the reserves of the proteins your skin is losing as it ages, helping skin become firmer and fine lines and wrinkles less obvious.

– COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTS

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and provides many vital functions, including maintenance of skin health and elasticity. Given collagen depletes over time, you may like to try collagen shots, pills or powder.

– HYALURONIC ACID

Sometimes called the “fountain of youth”, hyaluronic acid helps skin maintain moisture. As discussed, topical skincare can help replenish your skin’s supply of HA and supplementation may also help add to your reserves. Studies show that taking HA orally inhibits skin wrinkles and improves general skin condition.

– GENISTEIN ISOFLAVONES

Genistein isoflavones – found in soybeans – are phytoestrogens and have also been shown to improve skin elasticity when taken orally (and also topically).

CLINIC TREATMENTS

Before you have a treatment at Unwind Beauty Lounge in Frisco, book in to see our esthetician to discuss your skin concerns – loss of elasticity, for example – and which treatments and skincare will be the most effective for you.

– CHEMICAL PEELS

Medium depth peels, such as the PCA Peel or Perfect Peel, combine various acids and vitamins to improve skin tone, texture and clarity, working at a cellular level instead of simply sloughing off the top layer of skin. These peels stimulate collagen production, giving firmer and more youthful-looking skin after one treatment.

– MICRONEEDLING

Microneedling treatments – Dermaroller, for example – stimulate the skin in order to help it regenerate and repair itself naturally. Thousands of microscopic needle holes are made in the skin (without damaging it), prompting treated skin to produce new collagen and elastin and generate new cells in order to heal. Your body then regenerates and repairs the skin over time, working below the surface in the dermis to form new collagen, generate new skin cells and enhance the blood supply.

– RADIOFREQUENCY RF

Radio frequency-based professional skin treatment devices, use various treatment methods, often in combination, to lift, tighten and brighten skin, stimulating ‘fibroblasts’ to make new collagen and elastin. They treat wrinkles as well as tighten and lift sagging skin on the face and neck. Particularly good for delicate and hard to treat areas around the eyes and mouth.

– HYDRAFACIAL & HYDRATIGHT

Hugely popular worldwide, HydraFacial’s all-in-one treatments offer non-invasive resurfacing and rejuvenation of the skin, combining cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection. A HydraTight treatment combines a HydraFacial with radio-frequency to tighten the skin (cheeks and jawline) by stimulating collagen and elastin production. Both relaxing treatments require no down-time and deliver immediately noticeable results, with more youthful, hydrated skin. HydraTight’s effects continue to improve for months after the course of treatments.

– INTRACEUTICALS INFUSION

Intraceuticals Infusion is a gentle treatment which uses hyperbaric pressurized oxygen to infuse skin with hyaluronic acid and antioxidant serums, to plump, rejuvenate, hydrate and replenish skin.

– LASER

Laser treatments can tighten skin and improve tone by sending heat deep into the skin without wounding the top layer, decreasing skin laxity and smoothing wrinkles. Non-ablative lasers heat the tissue beneath the skin to stimulate collagen production, removing the top layer to encourage new skin to grow as a result of the wound healing process.

– COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE

Cosmetic acupuncture with natural-lifting massage techniques can help rejuvenate skin. Small, very fine needles are gently inserted into key areas of the face to encourage muscles to tighten, stimulating the skin to spring back and function as it did before. It treats the major organs of the body whilst simultaneously retraining muscles and stimulating collagen production to naturally lift and rejuvenate the skin.

WHAT FOODS ARE GOOD FOR SKIN ELASTICITY?

To boost your skin’s elasticity, aim to eat foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids, zinc and vitamins A, B, C and E. Fatty fish, leafy green vegetables and nuts are beneficial, as are dark chocolate and green tea. It’s also best to avoid drinking alcohol (though a very occasional glass shouldn’t do much harm – everything in moderation!). Be mindful of your sugar intake too: excessive amounts can age skin prematurely as sugar in the bloodstream forms harmful molecules (known as AGEs: advanced glycation end products) which attack collagen and elastin.

HOW CAN I PREVENT LOSS OF SKIN ELASTICITY IN THE FUTURE?

1. LIMIT SUN EXPOSURE & COVER UP WHEN POSSIBLE

Exposure to UV rays reduces elasticity and causes premature ageing so cover up. Use broad spectrum sunscreen to protect against UVA & UVB rays and antioxidants to prevent damage to your skin from free radicals.

2. KEEP HYDRATED

If the outermost layer of the epidermis doesn’t contain enough water, your skin will lose elasticity. Water helps skin maintain moisture which increases elasticity so keep skin hydrated. Try the “pinch test” to check your hydration levels.

3. REDUCE YOUR SUGAR CONSUMPTION AND EAT NUTRITIONALLY-RICH FOODS

Eat mindfully, with a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, B, C & E and omega-3s. Watch your sugar cravings: sugar in the bloodstream forms harmful molecules (AGEs) which weaken collagen & elastin.

4. IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF SLEEP

Research shows that a lack of sleep disrupts your circadian rhythms and increases oxidative stress, damaging skin elasticity as a result. Try to put away your phone, iPad, etc early in the evening as the blue light also accelerates oxidative stress.

5. EXERCISE REGULARLY

Increasing your circulation through regular exercise means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to your skin – and this will show on your face. You can also enhance elasticity by toning your facial muscles.

6. BUY SKINCARE WHICH TREATS ELASTICITY

Replenish your stores of collagen and elastin – as well as hyaluronic acid – as they deplete as we age and are critical for firm skin. Use supplements and skincare which boost your skin’s supply of them. Also try skincare with retinol to increase collagen and antioxidants to protect skin from free radicals.

7. TRY SKIN TREATMENTS

Treatments such as micro needling, medium depth peels, radiofrequency RF, Hight frequency laser and PRP may improve elasticity, some immediately and even long term if done regularly.

8. GIVE UP SMOKING & DRINK LESS ALCOHOL

Nicotine causes narrowing of blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin, impairing blood flow to the skin. The thousands of chemicals in tobacco smoke attack collagen and elastin i.e. damaging skin strength and elasticity.

Home care and esthetician work are both essential aspects of personal grooming and self-care.

Home care is like being your own boss of cleanliness, while esthetician work is like being a magician for your face. Both involve keeping things in tip-top shape, just in different ways!

it is important to remember that 80% of achieving healthy, radiant skin is a result of consistent home care, while 20% is a result of professional treatments. This is known as the 80/20 Skincare Rule.

STEP 1: CLEANSE

Whether you have makeup on your face or not, you want to start your facial with a clean palette. This will ensure that you’re not locking in the dirt and products can sink in better.

A double cleanse is highly recommended: Start off with an oil based cleanser that will lift all the makeup and sebum on your face enabling you to wipe them away with a warm face cloth. Then proceed to use your usual cream or gel face wash. Cream based cleansers are more suitable for those with sensitive skin. Gel based cleansers are suitable for those with oily and acne-prone skin.

It is important to know your skin type to ensure that you are using the right products for you.

STEP 2: STEAM YOUR FACE

To steam your face at home there is no need to rush out and buy any fancy equipment. A good old bowl, some boiling water and a towel over your head will do the trick. You can even add some essential oils such as tea tree to the water for a calming and therapeutic experience. Tea tree is also known for its antibacterial properties!

Steaming is beneficial for your skin as it opens up your pores. Clogged pores are one of the biggest causes of breakouts so it’s important to deep clean them and remove all the dirt that could be trapped in there.

STEP 3: EXFOLIATE

Now that your pores are opened up, you can begin exfoliating. Exfoliation helps scrub away at the top layer of skin, removing dead skin cells and enabling products to be properly absorbed into your skin.

There are three types of exfoliation and it’s all down to your preference which one you may choose to use:

• The classic face scrub – usually containing sugar, salt, rice or groundnut kernel.
• Chemical/Acid Exfoliant – Trust us, it’s not as scary as it sounds! Use a cotton pad to run this over your face as you would do a toner.
• A powder exfoliant – These offer you the chance to mix them with a liquid of your choice – water, gel or oil and choose your own ratio of liquid to exfoliant.

Be careful when exfoliating as you don’t want to overdo it! It is important to remember that your skin is delicate and you don’t need to scrub too hard! If your exfoliator of choice is a scrub, go easy on the pressure as not to damage your skin! 

STEP 4: MASK

This is our favourite part of the facial! The mask you would use would depend on the issues you are hoping to tackle.

If you are looking to control oils then why not opt for a clay mask which effectively draws out the excess oil and impurities. Sheet masks, on the other hand, are great if you want to hydrate your skin, leaving a lasting glow and is great for calming the skin, reducing inflammation and redness.

Microdermabrasion originated in the 1950s in Italy, initially using abrasive materials like sandpaper. In the 1980s, machines with aluminum oxide crystals refined the process. It gained popularity in the 1990s for its non-invasive skin rejuvenation benefits. Today, it’s a widely practiced cosmetic procedure by certificate esthetician using various techniques.

What is microdermabrasion?

Don’t let the term “abrasion” scare you. Microdermabrasion is actually very gentle and is only mildly uncomfortable, if at all. There are two major types: crystal and non-crystal (also called ‘diamond tip’).

With crystal dermabrasion, a delicate handheld wand emits microscopic crystals as you slowly move the device across the skin, delivering a gentle, polishing effect. Whereas, a non-crystal wand will use a diamond-tipped disc to softly buff the surface layer of skin. Both methods feature a vacuum-like function to suck up dead cells, oil and gunk in the process.   

Microdermabrasion increases blood flow and oxygen while stimulating collagen growth thanks to the so-called ‘wound effect.’ When the stratum corneum – the top layer of the skin – is removed, the body interprets it as a wound. This kicks off a healing reaction and triggers skin to replace lost skin cells with new ones. As a result, microdermabrasion softens fine lines, smooths texture, reduces the appearance of brown spots, and brightens the skin after a series of treatments.

Smooth, clear, even, radiant… Everyone aspires to have a flawless complexion. While scrubs and beauty acids can be effective in unclogging pores, it’s the advanced treatments like microdermabrasion that deliver the best results.An efficient and non-invasive anti-aging beauty treatment beloved by celebrities, microdermabrasion is one of the best options on the market for exfoliation. The skin-polishing technology also addresses several other skin concerns, from acne scars to uneven texture, clogged pores and fine lines, just to name a few. 

For years, microdermabrasion treatments were reserved for dermatology offices and spas, but today you can find sophisticated handheld devices to use in the comfort of your home.

Who is microdermabrasion best for? Good news: microdermabrasion works for anyone in need of a deep, exfoliating facial. It also evens out pigmentation, softens acne scars, reduces the appearance of fine lines and brightens your complexion. If you’re in the early stages of aging, this is the treatment for you.

Is it safe for sensitive skin? Glad you asked. For those with sensitive skin, microdermabrasion is often the preferred alternative to chemical peels, because there are no harsh ingredients involved or downtime.

Anyone who should steer away from it? The procedure is generally not recommended if you suffer from skin conditions such as rosacea, active sunburn, herpes, or eczema. Those with open wounds, inflamed acne or broken capillaries might also want to skip microdermabrasion.

How long do treatments take? A single session at home might take around 20 to 40 minutes but it depends on the person’s skin condition and the device.  

What’s the ideal frequency of sessions? It depends on the person’s skin tolerance and condition at the time of treatment. It’s generally recommended that novices perform at-home microdermabrasion once a week for a month, followed by monthly maintenance treatments but it’s best to follow the instructions on your device and see how your skin responds.  

Does it hurt? Microdermabrasion can feel a little odd, like a scratchy tugging sensation, but there’s usually no major pain or discomfort.

Does it need downtime? Nope! Besides some mild redness, you can immediately resume your daily routine.

Are there potential side effects? The therapy can leave skin redder and more sensitive than usual in the immediate 24-48 hours following a treatment. If you have a big event coming up, give your skin a few days to relax.

Any post-treatment care? Avoiding direct sunlight and wearing sunscreen will help your skin recover faster. Avoid doing microdermabrasion right before your beach vacation.

What about post-treatment products? Since microdermabrasion opens pores, it’s best

to follow with hydrating lotions, serums or anti-acne products to maximise product penetration.

Do results last? Exfoliation benefits are instantly visible in terms of radiance and texture. After multiple sessions, you will notice more anti-aging benefits – think improved elasticity, less pigmentation and fewer fine lines.

Why we chose it:

• Best beauty technology for exfoliation, instantly revealing brighter and clearer skin
• Noninvasive, painless and zero downtime
• Effective on all skin types and skin tones
• Evens out superficial pigmentation, smooths fine lines and softens mild scarring
• Helps to reduce congestion and control breakouts for acne-prone skin
• Stimulates blood flow and boosts collagen production
• Improves skin’s elasticity, tone and texture
• Safe and cost-effective