Category: Beauty

Sun Kissed: Broad spectrum Summer skincare essentials for a healthy glow

With the cooler climes of spring firmly behind us and the sun’s rays intensifying, it’s now more critical than ever that your skincare routines encompass an array of UV-beating, moisturising boosters. To help, we’ve shortlisted some standout products that may enable you to beat the damaging summer heat.

gafencu magazine sun protection skincare essentials Aesop Skin Protective Facial Lotion SPF25 Asia EU 50mL NS_p

First to the table is Melbourne-headquartered Aesop’s Protective Facial Lotion SPF25, a lightweight solution that blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays, while ensuring optimal dermal hydration via its hero antioxidant ingredients of green tea and tocopherol (vitamin E).

gafencu magazine sun protection skincare essentials Hourglass Equilibrium Day Fluid Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 (2)_p

A more organic approach comes courtesy of Hourglass’s Equilibrium Broad Spectrum Day Fluid SPF30, which utilises four organic chemical compounds to create a shield against the elements and sundry sunrays. It comes with the side benefits of being vegan and cruelty-free.

gafencu magazine sun protection skincare essentials Skin inc_p

Then there’s US-based beauty brand Skin Inc, with Pure UV Protect⁺, an all-in-one makeup base, sunscreen, moisturiser and anti-ageing cream billed to protect against UV and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

gafencu magazine sun protection skincare essentials LANEIGE_Watery_Sun Cream_SPF 50+PA+++_Close_Front_161229_DF_p

Kicking things up a notch is Watery Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++ from South Korean cosmetics label Laneige, with its birch sap-infused formula made to provide all-day sun protection as well as resistance to sweat and water.

gafencu magazine sun protection skincare essentials STURM SUN DROPS_PLUS_DROPS LID_p

The final entry on our list – German cosmetologist Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Sun Drops – gives your skin some much-needed tending courtesy of a hyper-condensed yet lightweight serum. Infused with cassia extract, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and more, this SPF50 broad spectrum product is designed to protect against sun spots, skin discolouration and wrinkles, ensuring you maintain a youthful glow throughout the summer.

Five skincare ingredients that will protect the skin from sunburn

When one thinks of sunburn it is often imagined that the surface of the skin would turn pink and tender, though what most people aren’t aware of is that by the time the effects are visible and felt, the cellular and DNA damage (from UVA and UVB sun rays) has already been done, commonly resulting in wrinkles, acne, hyper-pigmentation, freckles and blemishes.

If you’re unsure which ingredients to look for when choosing a makeup or skincare product to wear during the day, here are the six best ingredients that will prevent, counter and protect the skin from sunburn and ageing spots. 

 

 

1. Titanium dioxide or zinc oxide
Unlike the more commonly used chemical sunscreens, mineral sunblocks contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide which work to deflect the sun’s rays (rather than just filter out harmful radiation). However, the thick texture of mineral sunblocks may not be comfortable to wear, in this case, a ‘broad spectrum’ chemical sunscreen (SPF 30) is enough to filter out 97 percent of harmful UV rays from the sun.

2. AHA and BHA acids
AHA acids (glycolic, lactic, citric, malic and mandelic) and BHA acids (salicylic) are chemical compounds that can do wonders for the complexion, working deep in the dermis to clear, brighten and smoothen the skin — ultimately reinforcing the effects of your sun-protective skincare products.

Although these acids are neither photosensitive, nor photosensitising, which means that they do not harm the skin when exposed to sunlight, they do leave the skin sensitive and vulnerable after treatment — they are, after all, potent chemical peels that exfoliate the skin. Which is why applying sunblock or sunscreen is significantly important after using AHAs or BHAs to keep the skin shielded from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

3. Aloe vera
A common relief for sunburn is lathering a generous layer  of aloe vera on the skin. The properties of this natural plant not only offers a cool soothing relief to sunburnt skin but also lends its healing effects to mild burns. This ingredient also helps moisturise the outer layer of the skin, to reduce peeling and protect the skin from further damage during recovery.

4. Hyaluronic acid
Another soothing ingredient that is widely popular for its moisturising effects is hyaluronic acid which helps reinfornce the edermis’ protective layer from skin damage. This happens when the hyaluronic acid is absorbed into the body and broken down by the body’s enzyme called hyaluronidase, then it is built back up again giving the skin a protective layer from the outside in. 

5. Vitamin C
Vitamin C in cosmetics and skincare are ingredients that help neutralise free radicals and prevents photoaging (ageing spots). Although they are photosensitive, meaning that its colour, texture and fragrance may change when exposed to sunlight, they are not photosensitising, which means that it will not provoke a negative response from the skin such as allergies and irritations like those caused by Vitamin A derivatives or essential oils such as bergamot, verbena, cumin, ginger, lemon, and orange. 

6. Annato (Bixa Orellana)
Often a feature that is less focused on during skincare, the lips are also subject to the effects of the sun. Annato, despite its deep red pigmentation, is an ingredient that derives from the seeds of the commonly known ‘lipstick tree’, otherwise known as achiote tree. Commonly found in lipsticks, as well as shampoos and skincare products, its properties trigger a cellular response that helps protect the skin from UV light damage. 

 

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No-Harm Charm: A five-step vegan beauty makeover

No-Harm Charm: A five-step vegan beauty makeover

Showcasing an ensemble of guilt-free beauty must-haves products that eschew the use of animal-derived ingredients and testing, as well as the occasional gluten-free additions, this month’s Get The Look features  a slew of vegan-friendly make up products that prep the face for a flawlessly glam summer look…

Step 1:
Firstly, begin with an even layer of Sunshine Skin Tint broad spectrum SPF30 sunscreen from New York vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics company Milk Makeup, said to aptly protecting the skin from UVA and UVB rays.

Step 2:
Follow up by blending in the Lock-It foundation by exclusively vegan beauty brand KVD Vegan Beauty’s for lasting flawless full-coverage (Now available in multiple shades to match a variety of tones and undertones).

Step 3:
For a quick glow, then brush a gentle line of shimmer along your cheeks with dash of Supreme Frost: Frozen Peach highlighter by American beauty brand Jeffree Star Cosmetics. A new addition to its existing line of vegan highlighters, this baked-gel hybrid is said to top previous iterations with a more intense and dazzling metallic glow.

Step 4:
Next, give your lashes an instant lift with the Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara by cruelty-free beauty brand Hourglass. Though it may have forsaken all things animal-derived, fortunately this has not precluded it from creating mascara that provide an instant lash lift. 

Step 5:
Finally, apply a layer or two of British vegan and gluten-free makeup brand Charlotte Tilbury’s moisturising K.I.S.S.I.N.G Stoned Rose lipstick for a lasting peachy pout. Specially formula Specially formulated to plump the lips with a full-bodied pout while keeping them soft and smooth courtesy of its active ingredient Achiote Tree (also known as Lipstick Tree) extract.

 

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Microblading: How to get longer-lasting, natural-looking eyebrows

Natural beauty doesn’t always equate to effortless beauty, especially when it comes to framing the eyes with a perfectly shaped and filled pair of eyebrows. The daily routine of drawing on a natural-looking and deeply defined pair of brows every morning can be a chore, as many women will agree. If you’re seeking an easier solution to perfectly symmetrical and fuller brows, microblading is the perfect semi-permanent treatment for your everyday brow qualms — saving time and frustration while maintaining an effortlessly defined set of brows everyday.

gafencu magazine hong kong beauty Microblading How to get longer-lasting, naturally-looking eyebrows treatment

What is Microblading?
Microblading is technique that utilises a group of ultra-fine needles to apply semi-permanent pigment into the skin, creating a natural impression of natural hair above the eyes, providing fuller, more even and natural-looking brows.

gafencu magazine hong kong beauty Microblading How to get longer-lasting, naturally-looking eyebrows princessbrows high society clinic process
Image from PrincessBrows

Does microblading hurt?
A microblading treatment typically lasts between one to two hours and have been said to feel like tweezing, while others are able to sleep through the experience, though each person’s experience can differ depending on their pain tolerance. Otherwise, beauty clinics usually stock numbing creams to help make their customers feel more comfortable.

gafencu magazine hong kong beauty Microblading How to get longer-lasting, naturally-looking eyebrows princessbrows high society clinic
Image from PrincessBrows

How long does it last?
Because microblading is permanent, the pigmentation will fade over time. It is more deeply defined during the first 10 to 14 days after the initial treatment and will lighten to a more natural shade when it is fully healed. After that, the effects can last between 18 to 30 months, depending on a person’s skin type, skincare regimen, and sun exposure, though it is common to require a touch up or two if you’re aiming for a specific look. 

Are there any side effects?
Although the treatment is semi-permanent, microblading uses needles to create tiny cuts on the skin, so it is common for symptoms like minor swelling and redness to appear. It is also expected for the area to feel tender and slightly itchy as the skin begins to dry and flake as part of the healing process.

gafencu magazine hong kong beauty Microblading How to get longer-lasting, naturally-looking eyebrows browhaus
Image from Browhaus

What are the aftercare treatments?
Although microblading doesn’t interfere with your daily routine, there are a few aftercare treatments to keep in mind for the best results such as, keeping the area dry for the first 48 hours, avoiding makeup for three days and applying healing balm on the area regularly. And no matter what, don’t pick, peel or rub the skin to avoid scarring or uneven healing.

Other activities to avoid 
As the cuts on the skin heals, it can be vulnerable to infections. Extended exposure to the sun or high temperatures as well as other treatments that involve chemicals, laser or radiation is best avoided until the area is fully healed. 

For example: sunbathing, hot tubs, saunas, swimming in salt water or chlorine pools, electrolysis or waxing, laser hair removal treatments, and tinting.

gafencu magazine hong kong beauty Microblading How to get longer-lasting, naturally-looking eyebrows aesthetician

WHERE TO GO
Glow Spa & Salon
A one-stop solution to all things grooming, from hair to brows, Glow Spa & Salon offers a 6-D ultra-natural microblading technique that creates custom strand-by-strand designs to suit each client’s personal style
Price: From HK$7,000 / session
Location: Central
Contact: +852 2525 5198

Princess Brows x High Society Clinic
Princess Brows x High Society Clinic
Internationally recognised beauty treatment center Princess Brows provides pioneering and tailored semi-permanent makeup solutions for ultra-fine and natural-looking brows that last for up to five years.
Price: HK$7,800 / session
Location: Central / Mong Kok
Contact: +852 6338 8359 / +852 9816 8387 

Browhaus
One of the city’s top grooming centres Browhaus highlights their signature Brow Resurrection treatment create natural looking eyebrows that can be filled in different styles.
Price: HK$4,800 / session
Location: Central
Contact: +852 3950 3950

Absolu Pure ByPatrickHenri
With over a decade of experience in Asia, Patrick Henri provides nothing less than premium consultation services in luxury makeup and skincare. 
Price: From HK$3,800 / session
Location: Sai Ying Pun
Contact: +852 6190 6765

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Skin Deep: Five non-invasive beauty treatments to try instead of Botox

Those entertaining the idea of a face lift need not go under the knife or splurge on a Botox procedure when there are non-invasive (and minimally-invasive) treatments that can provide a natural and curiously high-tech alternative to beauty treatments that improve the colour, texture and firmness of the facial skin while treatment any specific aesthetic concerns one might have. Here are five non-invasive treatments  to try instead of Botox…

1. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
A non-invasive therapeutic treatment, also known as photofacial, that uses light energy to target certain areas of the skin — gently heating up unwanted cells, reducing dark spots, skin discolorations, and rejuvenate the cells while reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Microcurrent facial therapy
A non-invasive low-voltage electric-therapy that stimulates the facial muscles and encourage the increase of anti-ageing protection, collagen and elastin production for firmer and more defined skin. Much like a work-out for the face.

3. Ultherapy (HIFU)
A non-invasive high-intensity focused ultrasound therapy that uses non-ionizing ultrasonic waves to heat up the muscle and fat tissues underneath the dermis to increase the flow of blood or lymph, promote collagen production and give the face a natural lift.

4. Mesotherapy
A minimal-invasive technique that uses a micro-needle to inject vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant-based extracts and hyaluronic acid to rejuvenate and tighten skin, promote elastin and collagen production and in some cases, removes excess fat.

5. Cosmetic Acupuncture
A minimally-invasive facial therapy that uses hair-fine thin needles to gently puncture specific pressure points in the face to boost blood circulation, decrease redness, puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles, and other aesthetic benefits.

Where to go:

Cosmetic Central
Located in the heart of Central, its Medical Aesthetic Laser Department claims to offer the best-in-class technologies and U.S. FDA approved laser, radiofrequency (RF) and HIFU machines.

Consultation fee: HK$1,800
Services: Laser and RF treatment (from HK$6,800 /session) , HIFU treatment (from HK$55,000 /session)
Contact: +852 2806 2829

OT&P Healthcare
The surgeons at this medical center specialise in a wide range of aesthetic procedures including non-invasive to minimally-invasive treatments such as laser treatment and derma fillers.

Consultation fee: HK$1,800
Services: Laser and RF treatment (from HK$6,800 /session) , HIFU treatment (from HK$55,000 /session)
Contact: +852 2526 9886 

Prestige Medical Skin & Laser Centre
The team of specialist dermatologists and doctors at this medical clinic are said to provide quality and comprehensive care in the form of aesthetic treatment including dermatological laser and Intense Pulsed Light treatments.

Consultation fee: HK$3,000
Services: IPL treatment (from HK$1,000 /session)
Contact: +852 2234 9339

Skin Central
Providing a comprehensive list of medical and cosmetic dermatological services, this clinic team of  Specialists in dermatology and advanced technological equipment provide treatments such as laser and mesotherapy to improve skin health and aesthetics.

Consultation fee: HK$ 1,500
Services: Laser treatment (HK$7,500 /session) , Mesotherapy (HK$3,500 /first 10 sessions)
Contact: +852 2901 1281

The Ying Clinic
Dr. Ying Shun Yuen, Clement is a plastic surgeon with 15 years experience in the field of cosmetic and plastic surgery, also providing non-invasive aesthetic treatments such as HIGU and IPL.

Consultation fee: HK$ 1,600
Services: HIFU treatment (HK$35,500 /session); IPL treatment (from HK$4,500)
Contact: +852 2868 2184

Balance Health
An oasis of all things well-being, this wellness hub offers a wide range of therapeutic mediation as well as traditional chinese medicine treatments including facial acupuncture.

Consultation fee: HK$500
Services: Facial acupuncture (HK$1,000)
Contact: +852 2530 3315

Integrated Medicine Institute
A reputable medical center with several specialist departments that focus on natural therapeutic treatments including facial acupuncture through traditional chinese medicine

Consultation fee: HK$1,500
Services: Facial acupuncture (HK$1,250)
Contact: +852 2523 7121

 

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Skincare Secrets: Five beauty truths that the industry won’t tell you

The skincare industry has become a multimillion-dollar sector that has earned its global legion of fans for its promises to help people of all ages beat the ravages of time and maintain optimal dermal health. However, there are a few secrets that even the most dedicated of skincare enthusiasts may not have been aware of. From skipping on the day-and-night eye cream ritual to the misleading truth about marketing labels, here are five beauty truths that might just change the way you view skincare…

1. Skip the eye cream
Basically a miniature moisturiser, most eye creams don’t actually contain any special ingredient that specifically benefits the ocular area. Although it doesn’t do any harm, it could be that normal creams could be just as effective…

2. Beware of ‘Hypoallergenic’ and ‘Noncomedogenic’ labels
These are two inaccurate marketing terms that can commonly be found on even the most popular skincare products, despite still containing potentially harmful ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, and chemicals that can irritate the skin and cause free-radical damage.

3. SPF levels in most moisturisers and foundations are not enoughAlthough some moisturisers and foundations claim to offer some SPF protection, they quite often don’t offer sufficient protection against the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays for two reasons:

​(i) Most of these products don’t contain ingredients that block out UVA, a primary culprint of skin cancer and ageing.

(ii) Because of how thin-textured these creams are, it would take about 15 times more layer to adequately recieve the kind of SPF protection the product claims to provide.

4. Natural is not always the best
There’s no real regulation for terms like organic, natural and vegan that guarantee their quality or that their production processes are sustainable. Besides, certain organic ingredients such as some plant-based essential oils, if not carefully applied, can cause burns and irritations on the skin. ‘All-natural’, on the other hand, is a term that is worth looking out for in products as they are typically more transparent about their biodiversity and are certified organic.

5. Opt for ‘fragrance-free’, not ‘unscented’ products
Fragrance-free means that synthetic fragrance materials or masking scents are not used in the product. On the other hand, unscented generally means that the product may contain chemicals that neutralise or mask the odours of other ingredients, leading to other irritations or allergic reactions.

 

Soap and Glory: Awash with winners…

Washing your hands need not be an unnecessarily dreary business, at least not when you have an array of luxury soap brands to choose from. Indeed, many of these upmarket cleansers not only wash away unwanted microbes, but also add an element of olfactory bliss to this otherwise mundane mandatory ritual.

Soap and Glory Awash with winners... l Gafencu Magazine zenology hand soap

A clear recommendation to anyone here would be Zenology’s Mandarin Green Tea. Loaded with nourishing perks, its formula helps retain the skin’s naturally smooth texture thanks to its blend of PCA hydrating sodium, aloe vera extract, and vitamins E and C.

Soap and Glory Awash with winners... l Gafencu Magazine l'occitante hand soap

A fine alternative, meanwhile, is L’Occitane’s collection of Shea Butter Soaps, which is said to keep your hands silky smooth thanks to its blend of botanical oils and Shea, while invigorating the senses with its citrusy verbena fragrance.

Soap and Glory Awash with winners... l Gafencu Magazine jo malone hand soap

Not to be overlooked, however, is the Poppy & Barley body-and-hand wash that comes courtesy of Jo Malone. This promises a two-in-one multi-sensory experience, which is soft to the touch and immerses you in a lavish floral, berry and cotton-soft barley aroma.

Soap and Glory Awash with winners... l Gafencu Magazine byredo hand soap

Similarly sublime is the Byredo range of Hand Care liquid soaps, a collection of four sublime scents – Vetyver, Suede, Rose, and Tulipmania – all of which are said to offer a truly deluxe deep-cleansing experience for your digits.

Soap and Glory Awash with winners... l Gafencu Magazine aesop hand soap

Finally, Aesop’s woody aroma Reverence Aromatique takes a somewhat different approach to keeping your hands hygienic. Favouring a vegan and cruelty-free option via the use of botanical extracts and finely-milled pumice, it is said to both exfoliate your skin while optimising your self-care routine.

Five skincare tips to avoid acne and dry skin for men

As the fairer sex can surely attest to, learning the in’s and out’s of skincare routines to ensure you put your best face forward can be a daunting to say the least. But gentlemen, let the steep learning curve through you off, because neglecting your dermis can cause severe problems. To avoid any unwanted conditions, here are five simple skincare tips to incorporate into your daily schedule.

gafencu grooming Five skincare tips to avoid acne and dry skin for men fresh faced

Keep the body and facial routine separate
Although a steaming hot shower can be therapeutic after a long day, there are two common mistakes that occur during this relaxing period of your self-care regimen that you should avoid. Firstly, don’t wash your face with hot water. Secondly, make sure you use soaps that are specifically made for facial use, rather than bodywash. In both instances, these culprits lead to dry skin and skin surface damage due to the skin on the face being more sensitive than the body.

Solution: A more appropriate and gentle treatment is to use gentle face cleansers and rinse with lukewarm water. 

gafencu grooming Five skincare tips to avoid acne and dry skin for men face wash

Exfoliate twice a week
Although daily face washing is non-negotiable for a properly kept mug, it isn’t enough to settle for just that. Although cleansing helps the skin look healthier, a lack of exfoliation leads to a build-up of dead skin cells and can result in dry, patchy skin and clogged pores.

Solution: Using an exfoliating face scrub gentle washes off dead skin cells and triggers the skin’s natural renewal process — revealing younger looking skin.

gafencu grooming Five skincare tips to avoid acne and dry skin for men routine

Treat acne
Although you should never pop a pimple, that doesn’t mean to default to no treatment at all. Especially for men who have more androgen (a hormone that creates sebum, which gives the skin its unpleasantly greasy texture), male pores tend to clog easily, causing acne. Leaving them untreated without any remedial solution can leave behind marks and in some cases, permanent acne scars. 

Solution: Products with retinol, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide help heal the skin, strip down dead skin cells and fight bacteria — providing better maintenance and prevention for acne-prone skin.

gafencu grooming Five skincare tips to avoid acne and dry skin for men treatment

Moisturise after every wash
Although men’s skin is thicker and more resilient to ageing than women’s, simply washing-and-drying is not going to cut. If a truly fresh faced dermis is what you aim for, moisturising is the key. Face wash typically contain ingredients that can strip away the skin’s natural oils, so without moisturisers, the skin will appear dry, while also becoming more sensitive to flaking and, according to Baylor College of Medicine, extremely dry skin can develop into more serious skin conditions like inflammation and eczema.

Solution: Apply a generous layer of moisturiser and massage it into the skin. There are various types of products to choose from which benefit different skin type but commonly soothing gels with aloe vera accommodate sensitive skin, while oil-based cream nourishes dry skin and water-based moisturisers combat oily skin.


gafencu grooming Five skincare tips to avoid acne and dry skin for men sunscreen

Apply sunscreen daily
It’s a common misconception that sunscreen is reserved only on the days you spend out on the beach or at sea, but that is not the case as the majority of dermatologists will suggest. According to Harvard Health Publishing, the UV rays from the sun can damage the skin’s pigment cells and increase the growth of free radicals. This  contributes to the risk of developing skin cancer and speeding up premature ageing. 

Solution: Apply an even layer of sunscreen of at least a level of SPF 30 (after a moisturiser) to block harmful UV rays from sinking into the skin. There are also a variety of moisturisers with SPF included available on the market for a two-in-one effect.

Essences, Ampoules, Emulsions: What’s the difference?

Derived from Korean beauty practices, the incorporation of essences, ampoules and emulsions into a skincare regimen places a strong emphasis on hydrating the skin. Containing higher concentration of active ingredients than serums and moisturisers, these products are water-based formulas aimed to be light enough to sink deeper into the skin, treating skin conditions on a cellular level — resulting in flawless skin as popularised in K-beauty culture. To get you started, here’s a quick guide to the differences between essences, ampoules and emulsions. 

gafencu skincare beauty Essences, Ampoule & Emulsions What's the difference (2)

Essences
Although essences are less concentrated than serums, they do contain more hydrating ingredients that essentially soften the skin with an extra dose of hydration. This then allows the dermis to absorb the products in preparation for the next steps of your skincare routine and allowing it to reap more benefits from the overall beauty regiment and stay nourished.

How to use it: After washing and toning the face, pour a little essence into the palm of the  hands and pat into the skin. Leave it to soak in for a minute or two before applying serum. gafencu skincare beauty Essences, Ampoule & Emulsions What's the difference (3)

Ampoule
Very much like serums, an ampoule commonly refers to a booster for the skin. Highly concentrated with active ingredients (often botanical in nature),  not only does it hydrate the skin on a surface level, it also treats skin conditions such as ageing and brightening on a cellular level. 

How to use it: Apply an ampoule after putting on serum. The product can even be mixed in with your moisturiser or foundation to keep the skin nourished while underneath thick layers of cream.

gafencu skincare beauty Essences, Ampoule & Emulsions What's the difference

Emulsion
An emulsion is a light-weight watered down version of a facial lotion. It hydrates and  moisturises the skin. Its water-based formula also makes layering other products afterwards more effective. They can also be applied underneath a sunscreen, and for those with oily skin types and aren’t fond of the heavy, thick or oily textures of face creams, emulsions are lighter and more breathable on the dermis, and therefore more comfortable to wear.

How to use it: Emulsions would typically go after toner, essence, serum, and ampoules (in that order), and just before a moisturiser because it is thinner in texture than a cream, but thicker and less concentrated than a serum or essence.

Red Light Therapy: The glowing benefits of low-level laser therapy

Technology continues to make its way into our everyday lives, beyond entertainment and social networking, the medical and beauty field have managed to incorporate new forms of laser technology into healing and age-defying treatments. Red Light Therapy (RLT), also known as Infrared Light Therapy or Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), is the latest trend in medicine and beauty that offers a non-invasive treatment to healing injuries, sculpting the body and repairing skin.

gafencu magazine red light therapy LLLT infrared sauna

Benefits
The effects of RLT or LLLT has been studied to relieve pain, heal injuries, stimulate nerve function and improve energy imbalance and blood circulation. According to Harvard Health Publishing, different colours of LED light produce different wavelengths of visible light can induce various biological effects, such as muscle tension, pain relief, injury repair and an improvement in psychological conditions. It has also been known to stimulate cell growth, offering a painless alternative to physical therapy and invasive beauty treatments such as Botox and liposuction. 

gafencu magazine red light therapy LLLT injuries muscle and bone repair

Pain relief and injury repair
Red light and near-infrared light often used to treat frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome and relieve neck, back and shoulder pain. Several studies published on the US National Library of Medicine also mention that the effects of low-power light therapy when associated with exercise can be effective in relieving pain for patients with osteoarthritis in the knees. This level of electromagnetic radiation (typically between 600nm to 800nm) can penetrate through the surface of the skin and reach the bones and soft tissues, boosting the energy in the body’s muscular cells which helps repair injuries. 

Where to go: Clinics such as Excel Medical Group and Dr. Michael Singleton provide cold laser therapy which is also a form of low level laser therapy treatment that relieve physical pain and heal injuries. Rogue Care, on the other hand, provides a range of different RLT equipment for clinical and home use that can be purchased via their website.gafencu magazine red light therapy LLLT body sculpting

Body sculpting

If  exercise has never appealed to you, body sculpting through RTL offers a stress-free option to contouring your silhouette by breaking down unwanted fat cells. It is surprisingly painless and offer a non-invasive alternative to surgical treatments such as liposuction. Lipocavitation, as Esthe Clinic calls it, is a treatment that uses ultrasonic cavitation to reduce fat cells in localised areas of the body. In a 6-week pilot study for LLLT treatments for weight loss published in the Lasers in Medical Science, the results showed 0.8-inch (2-cm) reduction in waist circumference. 

Where to go: Central-set Esthe Clinic provides a body shaping programme designed by medical professionals and powered by advanced technology and equipment that help do away with stubborn fats, cellulite and loose skin to contour the body in three to five weeks time.

gafencu magazine red light therapy LLLT beauty skin care

Skincare
Aestheticians and dermatologists have also jumped on the bandwagon of using red light therapy to regenerate the skin. A study published in the Photomedicine and Laser Surgery journal offered results that showed RLT’s effects in skin rejuvenation, healing acne scars and improving skin complexion. Harvard Health Publishing has also reported that LED light on the skin can stimulate the production of collagen and skin recovery. 

Where to go: Popular skincare and beauty company Skin Laundry, uses medical grade lasers to gently remove damaged skin and minimise the appearance of unwanted discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles. There are also self-care devices such as GLOWGEAR’s GLOWDROP 4-in-1 Facial Device offers an all-in-one experience that allows you to cleanse the skin as well as expel breakouts and treat fine lines with its ‘Thermo-Glo Booster’ and NASA-inspired red & Blue LED lights.

gafencu magazine red light therapy LLLT psychological benefits

Psychological benefits

Several studies published on the US National Institute of Medicine also have shown results reflecting the psychological benefits of infrared light therapy, stating that there were improvements of symptoms in patience with dementia and Alzheimer’s and a significant improvement in the conditions of patience with depression.

Concerns
Red light therapy is an increasingly popular alternative therapy to healing and skincare though academics and medical professionals do warn that although RLT are generally considered safe with no reported significant effects or risks, it is still a relatively new treatment with limited clinical studies therefore the majority of beneficial claims of the treatments are anecdotal and based on personal experience.

 

Photos from Esthe Clinic