FACIALS used to be an integral part of my beauty regime every month. However, I stopped going for them after Gavin arrived. One, because I could not afford the time and moolah. Second, because I couldn’t see immediate visible results. A more important reason really was because I discovered laser treatment and Intense Pulse Light therapy which were far more effective in correcting my skin problems.
But still, I would jump at an opportunity to go for one, especially if it’s a treat.
So yesterday, after being deprived for three years or so, I finally had a 1.5 hours facial retreat at the Slimming Santuary. This is the first time I’ve been there and only because my husband signed up a package with them. The branch at Tampines was surprisingly cosy with a rustic touch and the level of service was pleasant. Not that far from Renewal Day Spa or St Gregory Javana Spa that I used to visit. But of course, nothing to shout about if you’re comparing with those spa resorts in Bintan or Thailand.
I had the full works, from cleansing, steaming, exfoliation, massaging, blackhead extraction and finishing with a nice cold mask. It was definitely soothing and relaxing.
Compare this with my clinical Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy this morning.
After waiting a full one hour, the doctor finally attended to me. We did a minute of small chat and then I proceeded to lie down. After putting on protective eyewear and cold gel on my face, the doctor started to zap at the different parts of my face using the IPL hand piece. I felt heat all over my face, which got particularly intense at the pigmented spots. My body naturally jerked when light was delivered near to the skin surface around my eyes and nose.
I have to admit that the procedure was uncomfortable. In fact I prayed for it to be over ASAP. Fortunately IPL treatment is speedy. The entire zapping took no more than 5 minutes. After which the nurse cleansed the gel off my face and applied sunblock to it. I got up, paid and left. My face still smarting from the heat.
Uh ah…nothing refreshing about IPL therapies if I were to compare it with the facial. But don’t be fooled. If you’re into long term benefits like me, I’ll vouch for IPL anytime. It really rejuvenates my skin and each treatment keeps it glowing for a good 60 days or so. Despite the 5 to 10 minutes of discomfort and despite it being clinical and all.
Yesterday facial.. today IPL? Wah. Can the skin take the too much pampering and fuss over?
I always prefer massages over facials…
Comment by zara's mama — Fri, 26 May 2006 @ 4:53 pm
ah ha! now I know what it is. glad that it makes for a beautiful you.
Comment by ally bean — Sat, 27 May 2006 @ 2:36 am
Hehe…I’m very greedy! The beautician gave me a shoulder massage during the facial too and I’m hoping to get a treat for massage next!
Comment by sesame — Sun, 28 May 2006 @ 9:22 am
Okie… this sounds exactly the same for the IPL sessions for hair removal. I dread going for them because it just felt so uncomfortable, lying there, with a mask on, while the doctor and the assistant shuffled about, talking in hused tones, as if they were about to operate and remove my organs!
Comment by domestic rat — Sun, 28 May 2006 @ 10:12 am
DR, you did that? Where? How much? Am interested too! Was it effective in permanent hair removal?
Comment by sesame — Sun, 28 May 2006 @ 3:15 pm
Suddenly I am soooo interested in getting a facial….
Great illustration, by the way. You look positively glowing!
Comment by bozena — Sat, 3 Jun 2006 @ 7:54 pm
[...] blog but here’s an extract describing what actually goes on during the session from the entry. After waiting a full one hour, the doctor finally attended to me. We did a minute of small chat [...]
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