ask the EXPERTS

How can I get optimum results for clients from chemical peels?

Chemical peels are probably one of the most popular corrective treatment protocols administered by facialists. Chemical peels are predominantly used for their exfoliating properties and influence on instigating a mild wound healing response to help with collagen matrix turnover.

Peels are applied to achieve significant results in common skin concerns such as acne breakouts, excessive oil production, photo-ageing, pigmentation and, more recently, effective results for the treatment of reddening and rosacea-prone skin. Chemical peels can have substantial effects, comparable to energy-based equipment such as laser or radiofrequency, yet, they are less likely to cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) when treating skin of colour.

The best treatment outcome requires a thorough skin assessment and skin preparation. To achieve the best treatment outcome and manage client expectations, it is necessary to go through a client profiling system at least two weeks before a course of peels. Client profiling involves a full skin assessment to determine which group of acids and strengths will be most suitable. Sensitivity testing is essential to check for potential adverse reactions to the choice of acid. Photographic evidence is necessary to measure results throughout the course.

As with any skincare procedure, the client should be committed to an advanced homecare regime using products that contain the same ingredients as those delivered within the peels. Non-compliance with skincare can lead to skin recovery complications and compromised treatment results.

There is value in bespoke treatment protocols and combination therapy procedures When you have a range of different protocols rather than one type of peel solution, such as glycolic, you have the opportunity to change the focus of the treatment to target other issues during a course.

It is very rare that I offer a peel procedure as a standalone treatment. Personalised combination therapy procedures are the core of the SkinGenius Clinic philosophy.

In my practice, I find that treatment results are enhanced when combining peels with additional treatment modalities.

I often combine peel procedures with energy-based equipment such as IPL, radiofrequency and other treatment modalities such as skin needling, hydra-dermabrasion and LED.

Martine Jarman is the founder of SkinGenius clinic in Warrington and an award-winning aesthetician. She developed her career in training and education, specialising in skin health.

What is TriPollar radiofrequency (RF) and how does it compare to other RF technologies?

Tripollar radiofrequency (RF) is an innovative, third-generation technology, which was designed to overcome the limitations of previous mono-polar and bi-polar technologies.

TriPollar RF is clinically and histopathologically proven to simultaneously, homogeneously, and volumetrically heat both superficial (dermal) and deep (hypodermal) layers to the body and face. The focused TriPollar RF - due to its high density - enables the use of low energy, thereby providing immediate and long-lasting results.

The intelligence of Tripollar RF delivers controlled energy via three or more electrodes and is limited to the specific treatment area, encouraging the renewal and regeneration of the skin. The deep volumetric heating encourages the production of collagen and elastin, resulting in tighter and smoother skin. In addition, for the body, heating the fat cells accelerates metabolism and causes them to shrink, resulting in body shaping and minimised cellular appearance.

TriPollar RF is a remarkably efficient, safe, and effective patented technology able to deliver a non-invasive, painless, convenient, and comfortable treatments providing immediate skin tightening from the initial treatment and assisting in restoring elasticity, firmness and skin rejuvenation results. TriPollar RF patented technology is available within the UK by Pollogen distributor Advanced Esthetics Solutions (AES).

Douglas Sykes is MD of AES and proprietor of independent hospital The ME Clinic, providing treatments using TriPollar RF technology.

How should I approach booking appointments with risk-averse clients?

A risk-averse person is someone who prefers a certain prospect to any risky prospect, such as the potential risk of coming into close contact with others if adequate safety precautions aren’t taken. That’s not to say that these clients won’t return, but they may require a little more convincing to reassure them that it’s safe to do so.

While you’re bound to have made numerous adaptations to minimise any risks associated with opening your doors, it’s important you communicate these clearly to your clients. You could make a video where you walk through the salon showing any one-way systems in operation, advising what PPE the team will be wearing and highlighting any changes you’ve implemented; for example, in the way clients pay for their treatment or the way their appointment will work.

You can then post this video on your website and social media - reassuring not only those who have already booked an appointment, but also those who remain undecided.

Think about the questions people may be searching for online too (for example, whether it’s safe to have a certain treatment) and write blogs, social media posts or devote a page of your website to these queries.