by Ashley Randall, Ashtoria Aesthetics & Wellness | photos courtesy of Ashtoria
(Above photo: Valerie Monismith, R.N., uses the Erbium laser to treat the skin of recording and makeup artist Jad Davis who says the improved texture helps him apply makeup more easily.)
What does “fresh skin” mean to you? To some it may mean a makeup-free face, while others may define it as a clean and blemish-free complexion. One thing is for sure – fresh skin is something many people spend their time and money to achieve.
According to NPD, a global information company, US skincare sales reached $5.6 billion in 2017 (a 9% increase over 2016). But is skincare alone enough to satisfy our desire to have a healthy complexion? For those blessed with good skin genes, perhaps it is. For the majority of us though, specialized facial treatments like laser peels are likely to provide stronger results with lasting improvements.
Laser peels continue to grow in popularity as more people turn to laser for their aesthetic needs. While there seem to be endless laser options available, most patients find greater satisfaction with Erbium lasers. Erbium lasers offer higher safety and efficacy thanks to their ability to resurface skin and stimulate collagen with minimally invasive methods. This form of laser is also regarded for its ability to safely treat darker skin tones – something other types of laser cannot offer. “I love working with Erbium lasers over CO2 lasers,” says Valerie Monismith, RN, founder and co-owner of Ashtoria Aesthetics & Wellness in Collierville. “Erbium laser improves the health and integrity of your skin and provides a more precise ablation with little to no downtime, depending on the procedure. For instance, there is no downtime with a Light Laser Peel and clients can apply makeup the same day if they desire.”
So what can someone expect from getting laser peels? “In my opinion I look younger and more polished than I did in my early 20s,” says Jad Davis, a 31-year-old Memphis-based recording and makeup artist. Jad has worked in front of and behind cameras for 10 years and has learned firsthand how important skin care is to creating ideal looks on screen. “I deal with different levels of cameras and lighting on top of makeup. My involvement with such demands high caliber skincare to match the quality of depth I work with in digital media.” Jad started getting laser peels at Ashtoria in 2016, and has maintained a schedule of repeating them several times a year to improve his skin texture and promote a healthy glow. “The laser removes extra texture on my face, allowing my makeup to apply smoothly on my skin,” he says. “It’s unlike any other facial experience.”
Maintaining fresh skin is not just for those who work in cosmetics or media. Keeping your skin healthy positively impacts your confidence and self-esteem, which in turn affects your personal and professional life. If you feel like your skin could use a refresh, take a page out of Jad Davis’ book and treat your skin to a regenerative Light Laser Peel!