I can't be the only one who's been crying out for a bit of pampering following the last few months. So I was delighted to be given the opportunity to go and try the hugely popular HydraFacial at the new River Aesthetics clinic in the centre of Bournemouth.

The state-of-the-art cosmetic medicine and wellness centre in Albert Road opened last month and boasts a beautifully clean, airy space, with a wealth of treatments on offer, including thread lift, fillers, body contouring and a range of non surgical skin and anti ageing treatments.

The HydraFacial procedure has been growing in popularity over the years, promising instantly visible improvements to the skin, with both an express, 30-minute and a more in-depth, hour-long option available.

After being greeted to the calming reception area by visor-clad staff, and filling out an extensive medical questionnaire, I was taken to a private treatment room for a full description of the medical-style facial. While clients are requested to wear masks in the communal areas, each staff member sports a visor, so I could remove my face covering once in the private room.

The treatment is carried out using a bespoke machine. For the core process, a cleanse and peel involving gentle exfoliation and resurfacing is followed by the extraction of debris from the skin's pores with a painless suction method and hydration with intense moisturisers. Finally, the skin's surface is saturated with antioxidants and peptides to maximise your natural glow.

Each extended treatment also features a lymphatic drainage detox to improve circulation of the lymph system and eliminate toxins, and rejuvenation using red and infared LED light to reduce redness and further stimulate collagen.

The secret to the unique process is the patented spiral tip of the serum delivery system, which helps deliver the multi-step treatment.

Billed as a medical facial rather than a relaxing, spa-type treatment, the HydraFacial remains a calm experience delivering impressive results after just one session – although a course of six is recommended.

Brighter, fresher, smoother skin – just what the doctor ordered following the lockdown period.

 

River Aesthetics, Albert Road, Bournemouth

01202 024060

riveraesthetics.com