Joe Alvarez, Dr Shirin Lakhani, Tamara Orlova-Alvarez at the Elite Aesthetics party © JOE ALVAREZ
0 7 mins 6 yrs

Elite Aesthetics, owned by celebrity doctor Shirin Lakhani, welcomed press and loyal customers for the day of Hydrafacial. With over eighty Hydrafacial treatments booked on the day, the beauty clinic in Greenhithe was buzzing. Dr Shirin’s guests were introduced to her now renowned Hydrafacial treatments and after a short consultation, they were able to try out the trendy facial for themselves.

So what is hydrafacial?

Joe Alvarez, Dr Shirin Lakhani, Tamara Orlova-Alvarez at the Elite Aesthetics party © JOE ALVAREZ
Joe Alvarez, Dr Shirin Lakhani, Tamara Orlova-Alvarez

What is Hydrafacial

HydraFacial is a hydradermabrasion facial treatment combining cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection in a non-invasive process. This results in clearer, more beautiful skin with no discomfort or downtime. It is designed to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, congested and enlarged pores, oily or acne-prone skin, hyperpigmentation, and brown spots.

The uniqueness of HydraFacial machine is in the unique spiral nozzle and powerful vortex suction mechanism that provide a non-invasive skin resurfacing treatment. Elite Aesthetics clinic uses disposable catheter-like tube connected to the machine that delivers water and nutrients to the skin and a set of disposable nozzle tips. Each facial is customized to the patients’ needs.

The process removes impurities evenly without causing damage to the skin while also delivering proprietary serums to the skin to hydrate and close pores.

How long do the results of a HydraFacial last?

The smooth results and hydration may last 5 to 7 days or even longer. One treatment per month is recommended for improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation, blackheads and whiteheads, acneic and oily or congested skin.

HydraFacial skin care treatment steps

HYDRAFACIAL TREATMENT STEP 1 – LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

The first step in the treatment process is a lymphatic drainage that works to improve circulation, as well as detoxify, tone, and firm skin. The active lymphatic system means that toxins, cellular debris ‘stored’ in deeper levels of skin will be removed quicker.

HYDRAFACIAL TREATMENT STEP 2 – VORTEX CLEANSING

This step involves vortex cleaning and hydra peel exfoliation. A cleansing serum is delivered to the skin while the spiral vortex tip washes away dead skin cells. Slight scratching sensation can be felt during this stage.

HYDRAFACIAL TREATMENT STEP 3 – ACID PEEL

This step uses a gentle acid peel. The peel is comprised of a non-irritant mix of Salicylic and Glycolic acids to help loosen deep pore debris and dirt. If you have a sensitive skin, a skin test can be performed on a small area. Expect a slight tingling sensation during this stage of treatment and do let your therapist know if it starts burning.

HYDRAFACIAL TREATMENT STEP 4 – VORTEX EXTRACTION

This step involves a painless vortex extraction. It uses strong vacuum suction to remove blackheads and other impurities in the skin. Again, a scratching sensation is to be expected.

HYDRAFACIAL TREATMENT STEP 5 – VORTEX FUSION

This involves the application of vortex fusion to deliver a pro antioxidant formula with potent peptides, and hyaluronic acid into the skin. This is a detoxification step. This rejuvenates and restores the skin, creating healthy skin structure and function.

HYDRAFACIAL TREATMENT STEP 6 – LED MASK

Lastly, the LED treatment mask is applied for 20 minutes, which can be used as a separate treatment on itself. The benefits include an increase in blood circulation which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells and also helps purify the skin and removes waste.

The LED mask uses 192 LED’s to rejuvenate and stimulate the facial cells. This therapy does not give off harmful radiation or heat, which makes this a safe and pain-free procedure.

The benefits of LED light treatment include:

  • Increased collagen production
  • Increased elasticity
  • Wrinkle reduction
  • Tighter and youthful skin
  • Reduces Rosacea
  • Aids recovery of chemical peels
  • Heals sun damaged skin

Ikon London Magazine spoke to Charlotte Thomas, the beautician at Dr. Shirin’s clinic who was kind to show us around.

Charlotte Thomas Elite Aesthetics
Charlotte Thomas

Q: Tell us more about yourself

A: I’ve been working in Aesthetics for the last 5 years, and I absolutely love it! I couldn’t see myself working in any other industry! I really love to travel. I set a travel list each year and set myself goals to visit them all. I’m also very outdoorsy and love walking and skiing.

Q: What college did you attend

A: I studied at Bexley college in South East London, for 3 years for my Diploma.

Q: Your work experience

A: My first job, after qualifying was at a salon in Mayfair. I stayed in the salon industry for around 2 years and then decided to fulfill my dream of working in the aesthetics industry and pursue a career in the field. I completed my level 4 training for advanced procedures and laser technology’s, and from there I went on to work in reputable and high-end clinics across Kent, Westminster & Harley street.

Q: How did it come about that you joined Elite Aesthetic Clinic

A: I had been looking at changing jobs for quite some time, but nothing had stood out enough for me to take the plunge. I then heard that Dr Shirin was looking for an Aesthetician to join Elite Aesthetics, and I immediately I jumped at the opportunity. I knew instantly that we would work great together, as we shared the same passion and work ethic, and knew we would make the dream team that we are today!

Q: What do you like most about working with Dr Shirin

A: Dr Shirin has a genuine passion for the industry and is very experienced in aesthetics, so Dr Shirin sharing her tips and advice, and also being able to shadow some of her procedures is great! It gives me the opportunity to learn, and become more knowledgeable in really vast and varied group of other treatments.

Q: What makes you happy at work

A: Building relationships with clients. Having a professional, yet personal relationship with each client, and helping them achieve results. Which for some can be life-changing, is very fulfilling. That makes me happy.

 

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Editor in Chief of Ikon London Magazine, journalist, film producer and founder of The DAFTA Film Awards (The DAFTAs).