Feel like you have tried just about everything to make your skin look younger, smoother and healthier - apart from Red Light Therapy. I am a huge proponent of red light-based skin therapy and have been using it for 10 years now. I can honestly say it is one of the most effective skin treatments I have ever used. It has done amazing things for my skin, keeping fine lines at bay. It is my go-to treatment for improving sagging skin. Gentle and painless with no actual recovery time, red light therapy was originally pioneered by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and has been used by dermatologists for years to target everything from breakouts to collagen breakdown. I’m always on the hunt for the most effective light therapy device for home use and was introduced to iDerma Youth Restoring Masque earlier this year. It is an advanced full-face coverage, wearable phototherapy device that uses low-level light therapy (LLLT) to improve overall complexion and reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone and enlarged pores. The treatment gives skin that fresh and more youthful look. A home red light LED therapy device, its patented Derma-Pulse technology and adjustable, hands-free design provides full-face coverage that ensures maximum results and easy operation. I have found that LED is great for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving uneven skin tone, reducing pores size, brightening the skin and rejuvenating the youthful look of skin. This is one of the best beauty investments that can ever be made for the skin.

What is red light therapy?

An LED (Light-Emitting Diodes) facial is a technology-based skin treatment that uses specific wavelengths of natural light energy to restore skin’s normal, healthy activity. It works by sending light to penetrate deeply into layers of skin to stimulate cell production, heal trauma and speed up the overall regeneration process. Depending on the kind of LED light used, treatment results can include a reduction of inflammation, redness, uneven skin tone and reduced fine lines and wrinkles. Other major benefits of this anti-ageing treatment are that it is safe, non-invasive, painless and comes with zero downtime. Finally, it can be easily fit into an existing skincare routine. The link between LED lights and skin healing has been supported by studies, including several from NASA. They have completed extensive research that shows the many benefits of using low-level light therapy (LLLT). Some of the research findings are available on their website. In addition, many clinical studies have been published about the positive effects of LLLT on the skin by physician members of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Some results from LLLT-related studies conducted by dermatologists can be found on the AAD’s website as well as that of the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (ASLMS). Light therapy technology has been used by dermatologists in their clinics for years now. It is used in treatment of skin damage, acne, irritated rosacea-plagued skin, psoriasis, age spots, wrinkles and skin cancer or melanoma.

Pay attention to wavelength

Before purchasing an LLLT device, find out at which wavelength it operates. LED light has different wavelengths that are measured in nanometres (nm) and target different skin problems. Though there is some overlap in benefits, different colours of LED penetrate different depths of the skin to address different skin problems. Red and infrared light are the two most versatile light spectra used for anti-ageing Red Light: The longest of the visible light spectrum (typically falls between 620nm and 780nm), red light is used for its anti-ageing effects. It has been linked to the production of two key proteins – collagen and elastin, which work together to create stronger, firmer and plumper skin. This light will improve skin elasticity, increase blood and nutrient circulation, increase lymphatic drainage, minimise wrinkle depth and break up hyper-pigmentation. Infrared Light: Part of the invisible light spectrum, infrared has the longest wavelength (typically falls between 700nm and 1,000nm). It penetrates into muscles and the deeper layers of the dermis to help repair cell damage, speed up the healing process and generally combat sagging and wrinkles. Infrared LED light works exceptionally well when combined with red LED light to increase collagen production. This means that using red and infrared wavelengths together is a powerful combination for combatting anti-ageing effects on the skin. Of course, there is more to effective LED therapy than shining coloured lights on the skin. Power, duration, distance, focus and certainly consistency all play a part. Frequency and length of use depends on the quality of the light therapy device.

The anti-ageing benefits of red light therapy

For wrinkles, red light therapy can help reduce the signs of ageing and deliver a youthful, healthy glow. But red light therapy is not just for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Complexion will be more lifted, toned, and improved, resulting in younger-looking, smoother skin, thanks to increased healthy cellular activity. In addition to helping to hydrate and heal the skin, it is also great for anti-ageing because it protects existing collagen and elastin, while also stimulating new collagen production. It smooths overall skin tone and repairs sun damage, providing a radiant glow. It can be easily operated at home and is safe for all skin types. Red LED light therapy home versions: from hand-held, to table-top and face-mask devices Home use devices have been available to consumers for some time. Unfortunately, many of the products are cumbersome, under-powered, have limited coverage or are simply difficult to use consistently. Many simply stop using them long before results can show. I have used both hand-held and table-top light therapy devices and have found that both types have shortcomings. I feel that hand-held devices are extremely burdensome and difficult to use. They will almost never reach required dosage levels as they have a limited footprint and are typically underpowered. With table-top units or other standing devices, the distance to the light source typically prohibits accurate dosing because it constantly changes as the user moves around. That is why I believe wearable devices tend to be more effective at delivering dependable light therapy. They deliver constant, uniform doses to the target area during treatment, making each session highly consistent, which naturally leads to better efficiency. I was therefore very excited to test iDerma LED mask, which solves many of the problems associated with conventional facial phototherapy treatments – such as lack of sufficient output and inconsistency of treatment.

iDerma light mask is seriously fantastic

Designed to fit over the face like a hockey mask, the iDerma Rejuvenation Mask is impressively outfitted with 128 light-emitting diodes – 14 red and 114 infrared – that emit various forms of safe yet powerful LED light to boost skin rejuvenation. The device uses low-level light therapy by way of clinical-grade, surface-mounted, light-emitting diodes to expose the skin to clinically proven wavelengths of light – all delivered at safe, therapeutic doses. Combining red and pulsing infrared LEDs at their optimal intensity to maximise power and efficacy, the mask stimulates the skin to produce the much-needed collagen that makes skin elastic and tight. For optimum results, iDerma is engineered with both narrow- and wide-angle LEDs. Its red (660nm) and infrared (940nm) lights penetrate the skin at different levels, building collagen, reducing fine lines and diminishing wrinkles with regular use.

What makes iDerma so effective and easy to use

iDerma was designed to provide maximum results with minimal effort, offering a host of unique benefits: Combining the most effective wavelengths for maximum results: Different kinds of light have different benefits. Visible red wavelengths focus on the surface of the skin, while infrared light, although invisible to the human eye, affects the cells on a deeper level. iDerma uniquely uses both red and infrared LEDs at specific wavelengths that are shown to stimulate cell growth and collagen production. This helps by making skin appear firmer, more radiant and youthful. The use of Derma-Pulse Technology: This is a patented, proprietary function that allows both the red and infrared light sources to penetrate deeper into the underlying skin, to provide more effective, lasting results. Full-face coverage: With an intelligent design, iDerma boasts a patented full-face visor to cover the entire face. Its narrow- and wide-angle lenses are strategically placed around the mask to provide uniform coverage to the entire face for the whole treatment period. No need to wonder if a spot was missed or if there is an area not getting adequately treated. Hands-free, quick and easy to use: Unlike hand-held and table-top devices, iDerma is hands-free and is therefore easy and convenient to use. iDerma does all of the work – just sit back and relax during each session. Adding to the mask’s ease of use, it comes with a built-in timer that shuts the lights off at the end of the treatment. All it takes is using iDerma for eight minutes, three times per week, in the comfort of home. Impressive results: Visible improvements may already be seen within just four weeks, with the skin starting to look more youthful and supple. Results become even more impressive when the product is used consistently over time. After the initial 12-week treatment period, a maintenance program ensures long-lasting results from the iDerma System. During the maintenance phase, use iDerma once or twice a week to maintain and improve skin tone and condition. A plug-in LLLT device: Battery-operated devices will experience variations in wattage, and their efficacy depends on the size and strength of the battery. Because higher currents lead to better LED performance, the best results come from plug-in LLLT devices. iDerma plugs into a standard wall outlet for both a consistent power supply and no batteries to worry about replacing or recharging. It is also dual-voltage for worldwide currents and comes with outlet adapters for North America, the UK, EU and most of Asia, with Australian adapters available upon request. Durability: The iDerma contains quality LEDs designed to last at least 10,000 hours. Based on that rating and the durability of the components being used, the expected life of the iDerma is five years with regular use. It comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. A company with a great track record: Recognised as one of the global leaders in aesthetic light-based therapies, Apira Science – the company behind iDerma – is a pioneer in the development, manufacture and distribution of low-level light therapy systems and devices for the consumer market. Founded in 2004, Apira holds worldwide patents on the iDerma systems (skin and hair). Other thoughtful details include: Elastic foam cushioning pads for maximum comfort, an adjustable headband, A/C power adapter and protective goggles to improve comfort.

What to expect with consistent use

iDerma is designed to provide a fresher-looking complexion and improve overall skin appearance by:

• Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
• Diminishing crow’s feet
• Supporting skin elasticity
• Minimising the look of pores
• Reduction in redness or inflamed blemishes
• Improving skin texture and tone
• Lightening age spots
• Improving skin’s radiance

Also, extensive clinical research has proven that combining red light therapy with the specially formulated peptide preparations can enhance wrinkle reduction and lead to an exceptional improvement in sagging skin, hyperpigmentation, skin texture and tone. By helping one’s existing skincare products penetrate deeper below the surface of the skin, the iDerma system can actually enhance their performance, too. Although I have been using an LED light therapy system for 10 years, I love the results I’m getting from iDerma. It really helps to reduce my fine lines and wrinkles. When using the iDerma system consistently, I notice improved firmness and skin tone. I am a huge fan of the ease and efficiency of iDerma and I can highly recommend this product to anyone wishing to have more healthy-looking skin.

Results, efficiency and convenience in one system

Uniquely designed with superior technology to make it easy and convenient for anyone to use, iDerma’s patented, LED-based light-therapy system is a powerful treatment that benefits overall skin health. Using it just a few times a week is a small investment of time that will lead to major results. If one’s beauty regime has room for just one beauty tool to improve skin at home, make it a red light LED therapy device. iDerma is tough to beat, and the best I have tried. idermaskincare.com

Ziggie Bergman, award-winning Facial Reflexologist, expert in holistic anti-ageing and creator of the Zone Face Lift – hailed as a credible alternative to Botox by a loyal following of beauty editors and celebrity devotees – has created the world’s first anti-ageing elixir that is using sacred plants and crystals to renew and lift the skin.

Studying with Native American shamans and healers in New Mexico, Ziggie saw the medicinal power of plants to heal the body and spirit. Ever since, it has been her dream to apply this power to rejuvenate the skin and beautify the face.

Recently launched and already the winner of 2018 Beauty Shortlist Awards in the Best Facial Oil catetory, Ziggie spent many years developing the Zone Face Lift Facial Elixir.

Quite simply it is the best facial oil I have tried and I am absolutely obsessed with it. For me personally, the Zone Face Lift Facial Elixir ticks the clean, organic boxes wonderfully, but it is the high-performing results, intelligently handpicked natural extracts and oils, the strong feel-good comfort factor and emotional appeal that made it stand out for me.

The anti-ageing facial elixir is blended with rare oils from plants used by Native American healers and renowned for their rejuvenating and anti-ageing properties. It is also infused with Amethyst crystals for even more healing properties.

The result is a silky elixir that dramatically helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, repairs and lifts the skin and “smudges” the aura and spirit at the same time. It also hydrates and tightens the skin to make it firm and supple.

This is a hard-working elixir with a light, non-greasy texture that delivers radiance-boosting actives to the skin, deeply and quickly.

The concentrated intensive elixir boasts a blend of super-active ingredients, including:

• White poppy seed: A rare oil that firms, tightens and absorbs quickly. Traditionally used to heal burns and as an eye salve.
• Prickly pear: A powerful moisturiser that improves skin elasticity. New Mexico tribes roasted it to speed up healing, reduce swelling and treat rheumatism and viral infections.
• Amethyst crystal: This dream stone is known for its meditative qualities. It helps to balance emotional, spiritual and physical planes.
• White sage: Purifies the spirit and protects the skin. The sacred healing herb is used by Native Americans during cleansing spiritual ceremonies.

Hand-crafted in the UK, the face elixir is made with 100% organic and natural ingredients that are ethically sourced and traceable. It is formulated with no parabens, sulphates, mineral oils, petrolatum, synthetic fragrances and colours, glycols, silicones, Peg, TEA or DEA. It is also vega-friendly and cruelty-free.

The facial elixir is amazing, and combined with Ziggie’s Jade Sculpting & Lifting Massager it is out of this world.

The massager, which Ziggie uses in her own Zone Face Lift Treatments, will help to tighten a sagging neckline, contour the jawline, lift the face and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. It stimulates collagen and elastin production from the inside, whilst smoothing away puffiness with anti-ageing lymphatic drainage techniques.

Using the elixir and the massager together really is a mini-facial and a wonderful ritual to lift one’s face and spirits. Get glowing results in just 60 seconds a day.

Both the massager and the elixir come with a small card with a chart and instructions, showing some of the Zone Face Lift’s signature moves.

I use the Elixir daily and now would not be without it.

There is something magical about this product, and I feel as though the Elixir gives my face a little “re-set”. It feels very pure, calming and balancing, and at the same time it is incredibly potent and effective.

The elixir keeps my skin firm, plump and radiant, whilst it softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Just three to four drops per application are all that is needed, so the bottle will last a long time.

I adore the gorgeous elixir and have great admiration for Ziggie Bergman. Some day – maybe next year – I will treat myself to her famed Zone Face Lift which is said to take years from one’s face. A pioneer in modern Facial Reflexology, Ziggie was the 2017 winner of the Association of Reflexologists Award for Excellence and Innovation in Modern Facial Reflexology for creating her ageing-well programme, Zone Face Lift, which is now being taught to therapists across the globe. Expect transformative results. This is beauty brilliance at its best.

zonefacelift.com

Finding a good skincare brand can be life-changing. As one’s skin starts to look plumper, clearer, and more vibrant, one feels better on the inside, too.

We are inundated with slick marketing and celebrities urging us to use certain products, and it is difficult to separate the good from the useless. We must do our homework. I test many skincare lines at work, and the Ayur-Medic brand is one that I rely on time and time again.

A highly effective cosmeceutical product line, Ayur-Medic strikes a potent balance between ancient holistic principles of Ayurveda and state-of-the-art medical research to provide maximum results. It was created 24 years ago by two highly accomplished physicians – Dr. Raj Kanodia, a world-renowned Board Certified Surgeon, and Dr. Ezra Kest, a cosmetic dermatologist – plus a team of research professionals. Today, over 2,000 salons worldwide use Ayur-Medic.

Blending Ayurvedic herbs and anti-ageing compounds with advanced Western dermatologic research, each product is uniquely formulated to effectively penetrate the skin, delivering all active ingredients directly to the dermal layer where collagen synthesis takes place. Stimulating collagen production can work to fill in wrinkles, prevent further oxidative damage caused by free radicals and give one’s skin a healthier, more youthful appearance.

Over the years, I have used many of Ayur-Medic’s products – including Retinol Cream, Neck & Chest Cream, Eye & Lip Line Corrector and Lemongrass Cleansing Gel – and I have never had any issues, only great results.

Collagen loss is a primary factor in facial ageing and gradual disappearance of glowing skin. As a supportive and structural protein, collagen strengthens the skin and gives the face the firmness and volume of youth. It is key to healthy and youthful-looking skin.

The fact is that when we reach our 20s, collagen production begins to taper off, and the quality of the collagen diminishes. So when I learnt about Ayur-Medic’s Collagen III Serum, which promises to kick collagen production into high gear, I could not wait to get my hands on it.

I have loved everything I have tried from Ayur-Medic and I just knew this serum was going to be as high quality and effective as everything else in their stellar collection.

Designed to have collagen-boosting and skin-firming properties, it features an arsenal of ingredients scientifically proven to encourage the production of restructuring collagen. Key ingredients include:

• Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline (ASC 111): A collagen enhancer, helps to increase firmness and hydration in mature skin. Also helps soften acne scarring.
• D Panthenol: A skin conditioner.
• Linoleic Acid: Critical in the development and maintenance of a healthy skin barrier.
• Yeast Polysaccharides: Hydrates and retains water in the skin, helping to delay the ageing  process.
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Developed and produced in the United States, it is formulated with no parabens, no fragrance, and no artificial colour.

The powerful Collagen III Serum helps to increase firmness and hydration in mature skin. It stimulates the production of restructuring collagen and firms and diminishes the appearance of wrinkles. It is also an excellent treatment for acne scarring, repairing damaged membranes.

After a couple of months of using the Collagen III Serum, I have found it helpful in improving hydration, firmness and skin elasticity. It has a light-weight and fast-absorbing texture, which makes it pleasant to use.

There is no going wrong with Ayur-Medic – makers of well-formulated and effective products for beautiful skin.

ayur-medic.com

Retinol is one ingredient that should be a part of every good nighttime skincare regimen. Unlike most anti-ageing ingredients, retinol has been extensively studied in clinical trials for both efficacy and safety.

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that causes skin cells to turn over more rapidly, increasing collagen in the process. It is effective in reversing sun damage, fighting acne, reducing fine lines and wrinkles,  banishing hyperpigmentation and shrinking pores.

It is therefore no surprise that retinol comes recommended by nearly every dermatologist on the planet.

For results-driven skin pampering, one cannot go wrong with the Retinol Fresh Skin Treatment from Skin Design London, a boutique cosmeceutical skincare range.

It is an intensive, spa-strength anti-ageing retinol cream in a gel consistency, infused with five skin-boosting ingredients to improve cell turnover and restore collagen production. It promises to retexturise the skin, as well as reduce breakouts, pigmentation, dullness, lines and wrinkles in order to create a smoother, younger-looking skin.

It is cleverly formulated with a host of anti-ageing, hydrating and regenerating ingredients, as well as intelligent irritation-reducing additives.

The gentle yet effective formula may be used daily and boasts a cocktail of high-performing ingredients such as:

• Retinol: Stimulates cell regeneration and minimises fine lines and dullness to boost youthful radiance.
• Palmitoyl Tripeptide 3: Mimics collagen production and combats age-related loss of elasticity.
• 3% Hyaluronic Acid: Boosts moisturisation to keep the skin plump, hydrated and youthful.
• Aloe vera, green tea and rosehip blend: This redness-reducing blend soothes the skin whilst reducing potential inflammation and irritation.
• Siberian ginseng root: Revitalises skin cells and further reduces inflammation.
• LexFeel® N350: A deep-impact moisturiser for cushiony skin.
• CellActive complex: Unites Vitamin B3, watercress extract and zinc to help brighten the complexion by inhibiting melanin production.
• Kudzu Zymbiozome Fermentum: A powerful antioxidant from the pea flower that promotes collagen synthesis for improved skin tone.

The cream is formulated with no parabens.

Although I have used retinol for decades, this potent powerhouse treatment cream has become a must-have for my daily regimen.

Amongst the results from adding this powerful retinol product to my routine are: smoother texture, less noticeable pore size, some reduction of fine lines and an overall refining of the skin. I would also give it bonus points for its healthy dose of hydrating hyaluronic acid. The gel-like consistency makes it effortless to spread across the skin and it absorbs very well.

Transformative and cutting-edge, the Retinol by Skin Design London is a miracle worker that takes skincare to the next level.

skindesignlondon.com

I fully admit I have a serious love affair with serums. With a product that delivers potent active ingredients deep down to the skin cells, what is there not to love?

If I could, I would layer on serum after serum. But I do not have the time, or the funds, to feed a habit like that. I also know that more is not always better.

I recently tried out the Retexturing, New Skin Serum by Skin Design London, and I am now obsessed. 

A skincare powerhouse infused with advanced retinol, lactic acid, niacinamide and sea algae, this renewing daily serum encourages cellular turnover to minimise signs of ageing and reveal youthful, radiant skin. Formulated with a gradual release system and soothing, redness-reducing arnica, this clever concoction minimises the irritation associated with retinol and helps to reduce inflammation. It is also great for those who are concerned about poor texture, pigmentation and uneven skin tone.

Fusing cutting-edge expertise with couture formulations, Skin Design London’s well-executed range of powerful products delivers innovative high-performance skincare solutions. The products contain efficacious levels of transformative, cosmeceutical ingredients, soothing botanicals and supportive antioxidants that deliver impressive results.

A game-changing anti-ageing beauty buy, the Retexturising, New Skin Serum is a testament to Skin Design London’s bespoke philosophy, where a host of superstar ingredients is carefully combined in an exciting new couture compound.

Formulated with healthy and beautiful skin in mind, the age-defying star of the show is Cylasphere Retinol. This encapsulated retinol offers gradual release to enhance efficacy. It helps stimulate cell regeneration and build collagen to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. It minimises the appearance of large pores while addressing the blemishes and blotchiness often associated with problematic acne-prone or mature skin.

Since retinol acts as an exfoliant, which might render skin sensitive to sun and UV damage, a high broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must, even if one is spending the day inside.

Other ingredients include:

Lactic Acid: Boosts the skin’s hydration, pliability and flexibility, and is excellent for more sensitive, dark or hyperpigmented skin.

TegoStemlastin (algae extract): A naturally derived marine algae that is rich in mineral nutrients, amino acids and polyphenols plus GABA (gamma amino butryric acid). It stimulates epidermal stem cells and dermal fibroblasts, whilst supporting the maintenance of epidermal stem cell activity, encouraging skin rejuvenation.

Olive Squalane: Lubricates and protects skin.

Arnica Montana Flower Extract: Capable of reducing skin puffiness and inflammation, whilst limiting alpha hydroxy acid irritation and skin redness.

DarkoutTM (caesalpinia spinosa gum, hypoxis rooperi rhizome extract): Evens out skin colour, assisting to create a brighter, more radiant complexion. Also improves overall skin colour, reducing age spots, freckles and hyper-pigmentation.

Bisabolol: Accelerates the healing process and protects skin from daily environmental stress with anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties. Also enhances the penetration of other ingredients.

Niacinamide: A potent cell-communicating ingredient with multiple benefits for ageing skin. Improves skin’s elasticity, dramatically enhances its barrier function, helps erase discoloration and revives skin’s healthy tone and texture.

Skin care that works during sleep is undeniably appealing. When using the Retexturising, New Skin Serum at night, l wake up looking fresh-faced and glowing with a more refined complexion. This hard-working formula has improved my skin texture, tone and clarity. It has resurfaced my skin for a noticeably smoother and healthier appearance.

The Retexturising, New Skin Serum has restored my skin to its absolute best. It is hard to imagine what could top it. Maybe another super-powered product from Skin Design London?

www.skindesignlondon.com