At-Home Skin Care Devices Anti-aging devices are the buzz lately.  These scaled-down devices range from microcurrent, microdermabrasion, ultrasound, and even LED light therapies.  While over time you will most likely see results if you stick with it, don’t expect the result to be the same as you would receive from a full-scale device or a machine an esthetician would use.  Your dilemma is figuring out which technologies and devices would be best for you. I hope that this article will help you to better understand what is out there and how they work so that you can choose wisely.  Keep in mind that home devices are not as powerful as those used by professionals so results will take longer to achieve. Ultrasound Ultrasound is high-frequency sound waves, between 800,000 to 2,000,000 Hz.  As the waves pass through the treatment head into the skin they cause vibration to the surrounding tissues.  This is beneficial since this is where the collagen is.  The vibration creates a low-level heat, increasing oxygen to the cells, helping in the removal of waste. The benefit is that your skin care products will go deeper into your skin and your skin should begin to be firmer and have more lift over time. Microdermabrasion This is a form of exfoliation that removes the top layer of dead skin cells and some uneven layers of skin.  A professional esthetician uses diamond and crystal microdermabrasion tips.  The crystals are sprayed and then the machine vacuums them up.  Most home devices do not have the tips for spraying crystals and the amount of suction cannot be controlled. This is one treatment that should be left to a professional to avoid damage to the skin and possible scarring. Radio Frequency High frequency radio wave technology causes heat to build where the skin and fat layer come together causing denaturation.  This is a process that causes collagen fibers to contract which stimulates new collagen production.  If you are looking for help with sagging skin this may be for you.  The problem with home devices is that they do not reach a temperature of 41 degrees C, approximately 87 degrees F, therefore, denaturation cannot take place. Microcurrent Microcurrent uses a subsensory electric current used for facial firming and lifting. A tiny charge stimulates facial muscles by sending electrical currents at a low frequency. This procedure was developed in 1980s used for treating skin conditions after paralysis, injuries and for scars and etc.  The results showed improved skin tone and texture, so, of course, it soon became a sought-after beauty treatment. Light Emitting Diode (LED) This is a device that sends strands of light in specific wavelengths. They provide a safe method of cell renewal. It is impossible to overdo since it emits a low wavelength. Blue Light is used for treating acne. Red Light increases the production of collagen and is used for treating wrinkles, rosacea, scars, eczema, burns and psoriasis. Sandra’s Product Review Ultrasonic Technology This is a product that I have been personally testing for one month.  I want to share my review with you. The JeNu Ultrasonic Infuser, which has received rave reviews from top beauty magazines and dermatologists, gives your products an ultrasonic push, propelling 3X the formula into your skin, giving you the power of 3 jars from just one jar. It doesn’t matter if you are using a drug store cosmetic or one that is more high-end. I have to admit I was a skeptic. The claim is that this device can help with wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, dark spots, redness, dryness, furrow and frown lines, creases, droopiness; you can see why I was a skeptic. I have always loved how my professional ultrasonic machine that I use in my skin care practice works, so I wanted to see if this could be a good option for home use.  Before I tell you about my experience I want to share the history of this little device. By the way, I am not paid to review products; this is totally an unbiased review. JeNu Ultrasonic Infuser uses vibrating microspheres on the skin to open pathways through which the formulations can travel.  This is the information that convinced me I just had to try it. Once ordered it arrived quickly and I couldn’t wait to begin. It comes with a silver pouch, a charger, and conducting gel. JeNu also offered a special which included an eye cream, so of course I grabbed that too. The device is small and sleek and mine came with a charge so I was able to try it right away. It’s so easy and totally painless with no side effects. It’s true! The JeNu may look a little futuristic, yet it is like a magic wand for skin care products and in only one minute a day. Week 1: I noticed that my skin appeared more hydrated and plumper. Week 2:  my skin glowed. I loved how my skin got a little pink as soon as I started using it; a true sign that the circulation is being increased in those areas. Week 3:  I had complements on my skin from two different people and I wasn’t wearing any makeup other than moisturizer! Week 4:  I noticed my skin not only glowed but it appeared firmer, fine lines were much less noticeable.  I was sold. My summary: It really does work and doesn’t need batteries.  I love this little device so much I want everyone to know about it. It is great that you don’t need some over-priced product for this to work.  Neiman Marcus & Nordstrom sell it and it has received positive reviews from Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, Style Watch, Elle, In Style, Us Weekly, New Beauty and American Spa. Treating Large Pores Pores appear larger from accumulated oil and dirt.  There are home treatments that you can try to help reduce their appearance.

1. Try a scrub. This is best to do in the evening to gently unclog and close pores. Be sure to use gentle pressure and don’t wash your face afterward since that would irritate the skin.
2. Combine lemon and pineapple juices – The enzymes help to tighten and firm the skin while the lemon helps to purify and brighten it.  Submerge a facecloth in equal amounts of the juices then place it over your face for 1 minute.  If you have sensitive skin, apply a moisturizer first.
3. Whip up a baking soda paste – Do this in the evening. Mix equal amounts of baking soda and water, about 2 teaspoons.  Gently massage in a circular motion for about 30 seconds.  Rinse with cool water. Do this for 5-7 nights.
4. Try a yogurt mask – Apply a thin layer of yogurt, leave it on your face for 5-10 minutes. The lactic acid and the probiotics will help to clear the pores.  Try this for 1 week.
5. Wash your face – AM and PM with gentle pressure.
6. Use ice cubes – This is a quick method to gently close and tighten pores but it doesn’t treat the problem that caused the pores to expand.  Leave the ice on your face for about 15-30 seconds.

*Note:  All home treatments should be tested first on your inner arm to rule out the possibility of a reaction. Use Your Cosmetics Safely to Prevent Infections We all know that our cosmetic products have a shelf life and it is not wise to ever share them. Yet, it’s not uncommon that we cross contaminate these products by using them incorrectly. The safest way to handle makeup products is by not touching them directly.  Liquid foundation should be squeezed out onto a pallet or a small plate.  Stick or pressed foundation should be removed with a clean makeup spatula to keep the container from being touched by your fingers, reducing the risk of bacteria being introduced to your foundation. It’s not uncommon for individuals to think that if they wash their hands before digging into that jar with their fingers it is perfectly safe. The truth is that unless you are using a sterile technique while washing your hands and right up through handling the products you are at risk of cross-contamination. All applicators and brushes should be cleaned with soap and hot water frequently. Special attention is needed for any products that are applied to or around your eyes.  Wipe pencils with alcohol and then apply near the lashes but never on the pink part of the lid. Mascara should be replaced every three or four months to avoid the possibility of eye infections such as conjunctivitis. Sandi’s Skin Talk Q & A Q:  What is the best sunscreen to use around my eyes for sensitive skin? A:  Use a non-drippy or stick formula to avoid product irritation. Q:  What is essence and why would I want to use it? A:  Essence is an Asian skin care import, a concentrated formula that specifically targets wrinkles, fine lines and dull uneven skin tones. It is said to revitalize skin.  It is applied after cleansing and toning your face.  It feels like water or can have a gel-like consistency.  Essence products are a must have to help soften dead skin cells and can make your skin care routine more effective as products applied on them penetrate more effectively. Q:  What is the best way to correct my under eye darkness? A:  Use a corrector – it corrects blue and purple whereas concealer will only lighten. You can layer the two products to match your skin color. Q:  What does it mean when products say Dermatologically Approved? A:  It means the product has been examined by an independent testing house and then the results have been validated by an independent dermatologist to verify safe use of the product. Q:  I don’t wear makeup so do I really need to wash my face twice a day? A:  Yes you do.  Your skin is exposed to pollution, dust and bacteria every day.  Cleansing is vital to rid those impurities. Q:  My skin has gone crazy since my pregnancy; what can I do? A:  Your body is experiencing an increase in 9 different hormones so it is no wonder you are seeing changes in your skin. The best approach is to cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle moisturizing wash and then follow up with a water-based moisturizer. Views:]]>