A facial should do two things - restore the radiance to your skin and revive your soul. Editor Trudi Brewer shares Environ’s festive offering.
Environ Festive Facial
What is it?
Environ Festive Facial - allow 75 minutes, expect to pay $149.
What to expect?
After meeting Linda Jackson, owner of Skin Wellness on Auckland's North Shore, I was inspired. A serene, career therapist her swift analysis of my skin proved two things, I was in need of hydration, and clarity - and I couldn't agree more.
What does the treatment involve?
Under the duvet, the triple skin cleanse begins. First, a rich Pre-cleansing oil, followed by an active Clay Masque to polish with, and finally the lightweight Cleansing Gel to emulsify the last of any makeup or sunscreen. Alpha Toner Forte was the final preparation to have my skin makeup free, squeaky clean and ready for the next step, a gentle lactic acid exfoliating, hydrating ‘peel'. Layered over the lactic acid a firming peptide serum follows, and next, the magic happens with the Environ DF11 machine. Essentially this machine uses sound waves and electric current to push active ingredients deep into the skin. Known as 'iontophoresis' (electric) and 'sonophoresis' (sound) technology this machine can be used to target areas of the face that will benefit from a deep hydrating boost, in my case the cheek area and under the eyes were given special attention. These electric sound waves make a high-pitched noise, along with a slight tingling sensation - but it's not uncomfortable at all. In fact, I think I started nodding off while the electric probe from the machine moved across my face and neck. Next, a cooling alginate mask is applied, including over the eyes (if your claustrophobic, Jackson will adapt the application for you), which sets to a thick, silicone-like rubber mask. This acts as the conductor when the electrodes are clipped onto it, with the current driving the serum actives deep into the skin. It's not a pampering treatment although the neck and shoulder massage that follows adds the bliss factor to this treatment. Once the mask is peeled off in one swift layer, a combination of Avance Elxir moisturiser (Jackson desert island Environ product) and the Mela Even cream are applied to my skin. Last, but by no means least, that layer of vital sun protection Environ RAD SPF15 completes this service.
“The magic happens with the Environ DF11 machine. Essentially this machine uses sound waves and electric current to push active ingredients deep into the skin. Known as ‘iontophoresis’ (electric) and ‘sonophoresis’ (sound) technology this machine can be used to target areas of the face that will benefit from a deep hydrating boost.”
Why do we like it?
Environ skincare delivers skin changing results anyone who uses it will agree, and once in the hands of professional skin therapist like Jackson, this facial lives up to its name - a festive skin treat. Jackson promised the effects of this treatment would be seen and felt for days, (ideal for the party, wedding and holiday season ahead) and under her expert spell for 75 minutes, she was right. My face looks firmer and feels revitalised, and that post-facial radiance lasted for days. Confident to leave makeup free as I drove home I was convinced Jackson's hands could make the most fatigued of looking faces glow again.