My skin and I

I have a love-hate relationship with my skin, as most women do. I love that it’s naturally tan. I don’t really like the oiliness. It has lessened significantly ever since I had my kids, but I still get blemishes once in a while. As I am not the most reliable person to stick to a beauty regimen, I have had to do some damage control lately. In search of the best yet gentle beauty treatments, here are some of my latest discoveries to help both beauty junkies and the not-so-sipag girls out there.

Beam me up, Scotty!

“We have the most advanced laser machines in the country today, “ shares Dr. Windie Villarica-Hayano of Skin Inc. (room 303-304, Tritan Plaza, Magallanes Commercial Center, Paseo de Magallanes, Makati; tel. 853-3024). “They’re smart machines that can really go to the right levels of the skin to treat specific skin problems, unlike older machines that are sort of hit and miss.” The Palomar Starlux 500 System is the single most versatile platform that can be used for fractional non-ablative skin resurfacing and tightening, permanent hair reduction, photorejuvenation, photofacials for unwanted pigments, acne, and clearance of unsightly vascular lesions and veins.   All treatments are quick and comfortable, non-invasive with little or no downtime. You can have treatments done over your lunch break and go back to work looking better instantly! They believe in non-invasive treatments and methods for both skin and body concerns.

Sessions are custom tailored to your needs and performed by trained dermatologists. Dr. Windie herself or her other dermatologist colleagues personally assess your skin and do the treatments themselves. “We also do not offer any pre-packaged treatments because we believe that every person’s skin and body needs are unique. Everything is very personal and customized. That way, you’re sure you’re getting the best service and results,” adds Dr. Windie. I experienced this firsthand and cannot express how this personalized approach made such a huge difference. First, I felt safe knowing that they knew what they were talking about and doing. Second, they can answer all your questions and give you the best options available. I have very sensitive skin that turns red and inflamed whenever I get a facial. For the longest time, I just let it be. But when Dr. Windie noticed my skin’s reaction, she quickly gave me anti-inflammatory medicine and for the first time in my life, I didn’t look like I had a round with Pacquiao after getting my skin treated.

Instant gratification

Being non-regimented as I am, I also do not have a specific and strict exercise routine. I try to walk at least two to three times a week, but that’s basically it. I tried their Smartwave Body Contouring system and was surprised by the instant results! I was measured before and after the treatments to see how much I could lose in one session. In less than an hour, I lost 1.3 inches around my stomach! For real! Radio frequency and endermologie were used to help loosen fat and stored water around your body. The Smartwave treatment just felt like a warm massage over my stomach and back. The endermologie part had slight suction and massage to help move the fat and water. For special events and trips, this would certainly help trim down problem areas with no down time at all! This of course is best coupled with exercise and the proper diet, but hey, anything that can help speed things up is always welcome.

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For comments and suggestions, you can e-mail me at donna.cunapita@gmail.com.