Not All Skincare Treatments Are For Everyone: Are You a Candidate?
Have you ever seen someone’s skin and wondered what they did to get those results? Maybe after learning their regimen, you purchased all the products and even booked appointments for the exact treatments they received hoping to get the same results.
If that sounds at all familiar, don’t worry you’re not alone. The reality though is that skincare treatments are not a “one size fits all” solution. A treatment that may be perfect for you can cause harm to someone else. There are many factors to consider, which is why it’s always best to seek out a skincare professional. Let’s dive in and explore treatments that are not suited for everyone & key insights to keep in mind when booking these skincare treatments.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a downtime treatment that is used to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin to initiate the skin’s repair process. This treatment is ideal for smoothing fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
Who is not a candidate for microneedling?
If you suffer from inflammatory acne, microneedling is not suitable for you. The significant inflammation that occurs in your clogged pores can cause more bacteria to spread and be produced. Undergoing microneedling during active breakouts can worsen the flare up.
For those who have other inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and in some cases rosacea, microneedling should be avoided while flared up to prevent exacerbating these conditions and increasing irritation.
We also don’t recommend microneedling for skin that is prone to keloid scarring. Doing so can lead to further complications and adverse effects.
Dermaplaning
During a dermaplaning treatment, a sterilized stainless steel blade is used to slough off dead skin cells and peach fuzz. Doing so allows products to penetrate deeper into your skin for an overall smooth and dewy glow. This treatment is ideal for reducing the appearance of fine lines and acne scars.
Who is not a candidate for dermaplaning?
Similar to microneedling, those who suffer from acneic skin should avoid dermaplaning. During flare ups, dermaplaning can spread bacteria and worsen the breakout.
Although dermaplaning is a treatment that removes the top layers of skin, including fine and thin hair, it is not effective for thick or coarse facial hair removal. For people dealing with hirsutism, or excessive hair growth, dermaplaning would lead to suboptimal results and potential discomfort, making it a treatment we would recommend against.
Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing procedure in which an acid-based chemical solution is applied to your skin causing the removal of the top layers of skin and the surfacing of smoother skin. There are different kinds of peels with light to deep ranges & the kind of peel you choose depends on the skin condition you’re wanting to treat.
Who is not a candidate for chemical peels?
If your skin barrier is compromised by irritation, inflammation, or injury, we recommend staying away from chemical peels. It’s also best for clients with highly sensitive skin to avoid peels or discuss their options with their skin care professional.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also steer clear of chemical peels during that time. Chemical peels have different active ingredients and range in depth of penetration into your skin. Deep chemical peels specifically, can potentially cause chemical absorption into the bloodstream and may reach the developing fetus, posing a risk of harm.
High Frequency
High frequency uses an electrical current to stimulate collagen production improving skin texture and tone.
Who is not a candidate for high frequency?
If you are someone who has an electronic implant like a pacemaker, high frequency is not for you. Undergoing high frequency as a treatment could increase the risk of offsetting the frequency of your electronic device and could cause interference with its functioning. We also don’t recommend high frequency for individuals who have metal implants or plates in the facial areas as it puts you at risk and can cause discomfort.
Individuals with epilepsy or a history of seizures should also avoid high frequency to minimize the seizure triggers.
How can I find out more about what skincare treatments I can or can’t do?
Keep in mind that these treatments are generally safe but there are certain factors that need to be taken into consideration before jumping in and booking something you may not be suited for.
While at this point in your skincare journey, we might recommend against a certain treatment, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s off the table forever. At Elevated Aesthetics, we’re here to guide you throughout the process of achieving glowing and radiant skin and that includes taking into consideration the safest way to achieve the most optimal results.
If there’s one thing to take away from this, it’s to consult your esthetician on what might be the most appropriate treatment for you. Sharing as much information as possible in your intake form, consultation, and/or the day of your treatment, is key to ensuring that we support you in making the best and safest assessment.
Want more information before scheduling a service?
We would love to chat with you to make sure you book the service that will best suit your needs and is appropriate for your skin. Email us or give us call to speak with one of our estheticians.