After struggling with hormonal acne, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin texture for years, achieving clear and radiant skin can feel like a distant dream. However, a new facial treatment is gaining popularity for its ability to deliver exceptional results: the DiamondGlow facial. This article delves into the benefits of DiamondGlow, how it works, and what to expect from the treatment.
What is DiamondGlow?
DiamondGlow is a facial treatment performed in a medical setting that combines exfoliation, extraction, and hydration into a single session. Dermatologist Jennifer Lee, MD, explains that the technology uses a patented diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate the skin, followed by an infusion of serums tailored to the patient's skin type and needs.
The treatment can be customized to address various skin concerns, and while it provides noticeable results, it is also gentle enough for sensitive skin. The procedure is painless, takes approximately 45 minutes, and can be performed year-round without increasing sun sensitivity or the risk of hyperpigmentation.
Benefits of DiamondGlow
One of the most appealing aspects of DiamondGlow is that results can be seen after just one session. The treatment offers several benefits:
- Smooths uneven skin texture
- Brightens skin tone and fades hyperpigmentation
- Unclogs pores and reduces acne and blackheads
- Plumps and hydrates the skin
How Long Does DiamondGlow Last?
The radiant results from a DiamondGlow facial typically last for a few weeks or longer, depending on your skincare routine and the products you use at home. To prolong the effects, Dr. Lee recommends Skin Medica products, which are used during the facial. These include HA5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum for hydration, Even and Correct Advanced Brightening Treatment for hyperpigmentation, and TNS+ Advanced Serum to slow the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
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Like regular facials, DiamondGlow treatments can be performed monthly or bi-weekly for more intensive treatment of clogged pores or pigmentation issues.
Who Should Not Get a DiamondGlow Facial?
DiamondGlow is generally safe for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. However, Dr. Lee advises against treatment for those with active sunburn, irritated skin, open wounds, skin infections, or a history of severe skin irritation after exfoliation.
Cost of DiamondGlow
DiamondGlow treatments typically cost between $150 and $300 per session, according to Allergan, the owner of DiamondGlow. However, the price may vary depending on your location and provider.
Personal Experience with DiamondGlow
After years of dealing with acne scars and bumpy skin texture, one individual sought a solution to achieve glowing, hydrated skin. The DiamondGlow facial proved to be an effective treatment.
Preparing for the Treatment
Before the treatment, it's important to avoid retinoids and exfoliating acids (glycolic, lactic, salicylic, mandelic, etc.) for five days. This is because the treatment uses chemical exfoliants and brightening agents like vitamin C, which can irritate the skin if it is already sensitized by other active ingredients.
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During the Treatment
The treatment began with a thorough double cleanse of the face, neck, and chest, followed by an examination under a magnifying light to determine the best course of action. The aesthetician noted some minor breakouts, hyperpigmentation, and congestion on the nose. The DiamondGlow machine used a diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate the skin in quick strokes, which felt like a light scratch with minimal pain. A suction device was used primarily on the T-zone to address blackheads.
Following exfoliation, an infusion wand pushed a Skin Medica Pro-Infusion serum into the skin. The serum was customized to the individual's skin type and goals, with options for clarity, hydration, line-smoothing, brightening, and evening skin tone. In this case, a moisturizing, plumping hyaluronic-acid-spiked serum was chosen to hydrate the skin.
Although the DiamondGlow treatment technically ended there, blue-light therapy and oxygen therapy were added to kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce the likelihood of breakouts. The treatment concluded with Skin Medica TNS Advanced+ Serum, moisturizer, and SPF.
Aftercare
Unlike many other facial treatments, DiamondGlow resulted in zero redness or irritation. Minimal skincare was required for the first three days, focusing on hydrating and soothing products such as cleanser, hyaluronic acid serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Retinol, vitamin C, and AHAs were avoided during this time.
Results
The skin appeared brighter, glowier, and more hydrated immediately after the 45-minute treatment. The lips also looked plumper due to the infusion wand's hydrating and blood-flow-boosting effects. While hyperpigmentation did not disappear immediately, dark spots diminished slightly over the following two weeks.
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For addressing dark spots and acne-prone skin, monthly or bi-weekly DiamondGlow treatments are recommended.
DiamondGlow vs. Hydrafacial
Both DiamondGlow and Hydrafacial treatments aim to improve skin radiance, but they differ in their methods. Hydrafacial infuses the skin with salicylic acid and glycolic acid for light chemical exfoliation, while DiamondGlow physically exfoliates the skin. Hydrafacial is generally more gentle and hydrating, while DiamondGlow can be more effective for people with thicker or more textured skin due to its manual exfoliation.
For acne-prone, oily skin, DiamondGlow may be preferable, while Hydrafacial may be an ideal ongoing option for very sensitive, normal, or dry skin.
Conclusion
DiamondGlow is an effective facial treatment that delivers radiant, fresh skin. The multi-modal approach of chemical and physical exfoliation, extractions, and serum infusion offers significant benefits in a short amount of time. While it is an expensive treatment, the results can be worth it for those seeking to improve their skin's appearance.