These treatments promise younger skin without the use of needles. Do they really work?
I’m back in the saddle to test-drive four non-invasive skin treatments. First, and least ouchy, is Emface, which is a muscle workout for the face that also uses radiofrequency to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin fibres. The Emface applicators are placed on the cheeks and the forehead, and the energy emitted stimulates the muscles to contract. At first, the sensation feels quite sharp, but after a couple of pulses it becomes relaxing. The sessions last 20 minutes and four are recommended at a total cost of about $4000. The results? A more defined jawline, slimmer face, lifted brows, reduced wrinkles and improved skin texture. Try it in Melbourne at ODE and in Sydney at Platinum Dermatology.
From least invasive to most, the skincare treatments that could be an alternative to botox.Credit: iStock
Next, the NeoGen treatment is also radiofrequency-based and requires between one and six treatments, starting from $425 a session. It smooths fine lines, helps reduce pigmentation and stimulates collagen production. According to the MZ website, NeoGen “uses ultra-high radiofrequency to ionise medical-grade nitrogen gas from a pressurised cylinder, creating nitrogen plasma in the nozzle which delivers a controlled pulse of thermal energy” to the skin. You can dial this treatment up or down depending on your pain threshold as the level of energy delivered to the skin determines the depth of penetration and associated levels of tightening and resurfacing. Results improve over several months. Try it at MZ in Sydney and in Melbourne at Aesthet Studio.
Sofwave is a one-shot wonder as it lifts brows and loose neck skin as well as improving facial lines and skin texture. First up is the application of a topical numbing cream for half an hour. The fractional heating stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin, which leads to a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. A full-face treatment takes 45 minutes, costs about $4000 and is long-lasting, with results continuing to improve over the following 12 weeks. Try it at All Saint Skin in Sydney and at Skinline in Melbourne.
Finally, we have the Alma Hybrid Laser for skin tightening and resurfacing using fractional plasma and radiofrequency technology to target wrinkles, fine lines, scars and uneven skin tone. It costs about $799 for face and $660 for neck and improves skin elasticity and stimulates collagen production, making it perfect for my tired neck. The treatment creates micro-injuries to the skin, initiating the body’s natural healing response and stimulating collagen and elastin production. Numbing cream is essential as this does hurt, especially over the bony bits of the face. It takes roughly an hour, and skin can be a little red post treatment, with some flaking. Results take a couple of months to come to fruition, but then it lasts and lasts. Try it at The Clinic in Sydney and in Melbourne at the Dermatology Institute of Victoria.
ASK STEPH
How do I tame flyaway hair during the hot, humid summer months?
For hair that is parched and riddled with frizz, the secret to smoothness is to add moisture. Key ingredients to combat flyaways are hyaluronic acid, argan oil, jojoba oil and shea butter. Try Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Strengthening Treatment Oil ($50) and watch it work its magic on dry, damaged and colour-treated hair.
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