I’ve had – unusually, for me – quite a few compliments on my complexion, of late. This can be attributed to a number of factors: a new skincare routine (check out some of favourite products), great foundation and having access to some of the best facial treatments for my skintype (prone to oiliness, congestion and dehydation – the joys!).
The new Vit-illume treatment at River Medical is a case in point. This is to facials what the batmobile is to cars: hopped up, high-tech and complete with the latest gizmos and gadgets. Using the latest skin-resurfacing technology, your face is taken through a five-step process to emerge fresher, clearer, smoother and more visibly hydrated – with zero down-time.
Every treatment at River Medical is carried out by a registered nurse: mine is Aisling O’Gorman, an incredibly lovely and knowledgeable woman who wins my heart by telling me my skin seems much younger than my years.
Using a hand-held device and some gentle suction, the treatment begins with a deep cleanse and exfoliation – it feels slightly ticklish; if you have ever tried microdermabrasion, this is a similar sensation. A gentle skin peel is the next step, followed by extractions – the machine head gently removing any blackheads, while applying salicylic acid to any areas of congestion.
Next, the device is used to apply a tailored cocktail of vitamins, peptides and hyaluronic acid, before we move on to LED light therapy – the purpose being to renew, plump and tighten up the skin.
In short, this was one of the most high-tech facials that I’ve tried – but leaving aside the gadgets, does it work?
I’m very pleased to tell you that it does. I saw an immediate plumping effect – my skin looked healthier, and the fine lines around my forehead were less pronounced (these look worse when my skin is dehydrated; think of an apple as it starts to dry out). Two weeks later and my skin still feels more nourished, makeup goes on smoother and my problem areas – around my nose and chin – are blemish free.
Standard facials – manual cleanse/tone/mask and moisturise – are lovely and relaxing, and I’ll always be a fan. But for targeted results, special occasions and to address specific skincare concerns, I think a more intense and clinical approach is the way to go.
The Vit-illume treatment is priced from €135 per treatment. To book a free, no obligation consultation with a registered nurse, call River Medical on: 1850 88 50 50 or visit the website for more.
