VTCT Unit Electrical Facials

This treatment can be performed directly or indirectly and can be used to heal, improve and clean the skin using an electrical current or frequency that alternates at over 100,000 cycles per second. The intensity of the current is controlled with a switch. The current is applied via a variety of glass electrodes. The therapist fits a suitable glass shaped head into a hand held holder which passes a current through to the glass electrode.

There is a small concentration of gas in the head which ionises when the current passes through the head (the head will glow in a colour dependant on the gas contained in it). This current stimulates the skin cells.

The Fulgurator is a glass head specifically designed for ‘zapping spots’. By doing so, the bacteria is destroyed encouraging the skin to recover.

(a) Desincrustation

This is a deep, cleansing treatment that draws impurities out of the skin by softening dead skin cells and sebum. This is performed before the nourishing iontophoresis treatment. It has a softening effect called cataphoresis- which produces alkali (sodium hydroxide). The active electrode must be negative (the moving one). Desincrustation lotions are available as well as gels and lotions. These products contain ions with a negative charge which help the product to penetrate the skin. The negatively charged ions are repelled away from the active electrode and are attracted toward the positive charge of the indifferent (not moving) electrode. Effective on treating:

• Greasy Skin - To deeply cleanse and kick-start sluggish skin
• Dry Skin - To accelerate flow of sebum and remove adhesions
• Preparation of skin for iontophoresis - allowing for deep absorption of products

(b) Iontophoresis

This allows products to be pushed deeper into the epidermis (anaphoresis). It allows for water-soluble products to be introduced into the skin. The effects depend on the product and the active electrode.

The principle is that like charges repel and opposite charges attract, to aid the penetration of an ionised (+ or -) active product. Many ampoules, creams and gels can be used for Iontophoresis and the effects can be quite dramatic. The penetration is best carried out later on in the facial when the skin has been prepared, so that the active ingredients will remain deep within the skin. This will help to the skin to produce more collagen and anti-ageing products can be introduced deeper into the skin than under normal circumstances.

Commonly known as 'Electrical muscle stimulation' (EMS), it uses electrical impulses to contract and relax facial muscles in order to produce a tightening and toning effect on the muscles. It is often referred to as ‘the lazy persons workout’ as the results are similar to that of a high impact gym workout.

For this treatment the client does not have to participate. Electrodes are simply placed on muscles causing a contract and release impulse. This exercises the muscles 'passively' as client participation is not necessary in order for this type of exercise.

Although this seems an ideal way to exercise the muscles, treatments must be carried out at least 2-3 times a week for 4-6 weeks to achieve results. Top-up treatments will then need to be carried out once a month.

In addition to this, a skin-care regime should be facilitated along with facial exercises.

For at least a decade celebrities and those in the know about anti aging have been booking themselves in to beauty clinics and spas for a microcurrent facial. Often referred to as the ‘non surgical facelift’ it is the popular choice for those who do not want cosmetic surgery.

A microcurrent facial works by applying gentle electric stimulation to the surface of the skin using fine dual prongs applied to various regions of the face.

Despite what you might think – it's not at all painful. You may experience slight tingling but most people find it relaxing and many actually fall asleep.

The use of electrodes to stimulate facial muscles is nothing new. The technology was originally developed to treat patients with facial palsy and in sport to give intensive physio for injuries.

Once the visible improvements in the tone and texture of the skin became apparent – microcurrent systems were also developed for the beauty industry. In recent years there has been increased consumer demand for non invasive methods of facial rejuvenation. A microcurrent facial became one of a number of treatments – like led light therapy and thermage – that could be offered to women seeking a non surgical solution.

The technology has been thoroughly tested and results have been very impressive. It uses a low intensity, direct current that produces a low frequency electrical pulse of differing waveforms. Small impulses have shown to be beneficial in improving the appearance of the skin. A treatment, depending on the area treated will take between 30-60 minutes and a course is always recommended. For the best results, recommend once weekly for a 6 week period with one top-up a month for maintenance.

It is used on localised areas of fatty deposits and cellulite, always working with the direction of the lymph vessels to the nearest lymph node.

To cause lift and stimulation of the under-lying structures you only apply vacuum suction treatment. The vacuum suction is aimed to improve the circulation of the lymph where lymph fluid are used to transports waste products and fatty materials of body metabolism and digestion.

When used properly, vacuum suction is a gentle and effective treatment, and so relaxing that the client should fall asleep when this treatment is being carried out! The only rule of thumb with vacuum is that you should work towards the lymph nodes, to reinforce the natural draining ability of the lymphatic system. Vacuum suction is effective when used in conjunction with other treatments, or it can be offered on its own, and good results will be seen in the skin's appearance after a course of treatments. It is equally effective on the body: the principle being the same, just with bigger cups.