Medik8
products are marketed as “fragrance-free” due
to perfumes being the most common cause of allergic
reactions in cosmetics. However, three products
contain low levels of fragrance; Hydr8 Night,
Hydr8 body and Lipomelt forte.
The two body products-
Hydr8 body and Lipomelt forte- both contain
fragrance because consumers actually prefer
a lightly fragranced body product.
Hydr8 Night contains a fragrance for a slightly
different reason. The Ingredient Valerian is
a highly effective active ingredient but has
a slightly unpleasant odour. We have revised
the formulation to add a very low level fragrance
to counteract this and increase the appeal.
No, all products have been thoroughly stability
tested. The retinol label products contain information
about this stating ‘The contents will solidify
below -10 C. Simply warm bottle to room temperature
to re-liquify’ and this applies to all
serum products.
Can you receive skin needling treatment
if pregnant?
Skin needling is not recommended for pregnant
or lactating women due to a number of minor reasons.
The needles produce micro-injuries which trigger
the natural wound healing response. This wound
healing and production of new collagen requires
vitamins and nutrients which would otherwise
be needed for the baby so is suggested to not
be used during pregnancy.
Another minor reason is simply increasing the
chances of infection which is never a good idea
when pregnant.
A third reason, particularly for the personal
use roller is that it is designed for use with
Retinol products which are also not recommended
for use during pregnancy. We also recommend using
Retinol to prime the skin before treatments which
again wouldn’t be a good idea.
However this is just a precaution and any doctor
can carry out the treatment at their own risk/
judgement
Skin needling can be safely performed on all
skin colours and types. There is no risk of post-inflammatory
hyperpigmentation as the melanocytes remain intact,
like the epidermis, during skin needling.
Other invasive procedures such as laser resurfacing
are not recommended for Asian skin due to the
potential risks of delayed wound healing, pigmentary
changes and scarring. This is where skin needling
has an advantage as these potential risks are
very unlikely due to the epidermis remaining
intact.
Use of skin needling is viewed as a suitable
procedure as it does not affect the heightened
wound healing response in Asian skin. This natural
reaction is not induced by skin needling as it
does not disrupt the melanocytes, the cells that
produce melanin which is a pigment responsible
for skin colour.
What is the difference between the
Medik8 Titanium Dermaroller and Titanium
Dermastamp?
Both the Titanium devices are innovative skin
rejuvenating techniques in the form of skin needling.
Titanium Dermaroller has a cylindrical barrel
with microneedles arranged in rows which are
rolled over the skin to stimulate collagen and
help rejuvenate the skin area. Titanium Dermastamp
boasts all the benefits of the Titanium Dermaroller
but the circular head ensures accuracy and precision
for specific, localised skin concerns and hard
to reach areas.
Most dermatological rollers designed for use
on facial skin are made from stainless steal,
which can blunt easily. The Medik8 Titanium needles
are engineered in Sweden from pure Titanium giving
a finer and much more durable edge, eliminating
excess irritation caused by ordinary steel needles.
Furthermore, each individual Medik8 Titanium
microneedle is gold plated to maintain sterility.
This technology produces extremely accurate and
pinpoint punctures in the skin, with the aim
of improving the treatment results, while ensuring
user health and safety. No other needling devices
are made with Titanium needles.
The concept of skin needling is based on the
skin’s natural ability to repair itself
whenever it encounters physical damage such as
cuts, burns and other abrasions. Immediately
after an injury occurs to the skin our body reuses
the damaged collagen and elastin fibres as well
as other damaged skin components to produce new
ones. Skin needling allows for controlled induction
of the skin’s self repair mechanism by
creating micro “injuries” in the
skin which triggers new collagen synthesis, yet
does not pose the risk of permanent scarring.
The result is smoother, firmer and younger looking
skin.
Medik8 skin needling procedures are performed
in a safe and precise manner with the use of
the sterile Titanium Dermaroller/ Dermastamp.
The procedure is normally completed within 30-45
minutes depending on the required treatment and
anatomical site.
Before the procedure commences a topical anaesthetic
or local block should be applied to the client’s
skin to ensure their comfort and a painless experience.
After the skin is numbed, the practitioner gently
rolls or presses the Titanium Dermaroller/ Dermastamp
over the client’s skin to puncture the
outermost layers of the skin and create miniscule
sub-cutaneous injuries. These microscopic wounds
stimulate new collagen deposition which may last
for up to a year, yet they close within less
than an hour.
After the procedure the clients skin will be
red and flushed in appearance in a similar way
to moderate sunburn. The client will also experience
skin tightness and mild sensitivity to touch
on the area being treated. This will diminish
greatly after a few hours following treatments
and within the next 24 hours the skin will be
completely healed. After 3 days there is barely
any evidence that the procedure has taken place.
Visible results of skin rejuvenation are seen
after just 6-8 weeks following procedure and
continue for up to a year. A course of three
Medik8 skin needling sessions, at 6-8 week intervals,
is usually recommended to achieve optimum results;
however great skin improvement is noticeable
after just one treatment. Clients are also encouraged
to use the Personal Titanium Dermaroller/ Dermastamp
model on a daily basis in between their Medik8
skin needling sessions to enhance procedure results.
Medik8 skin needling does not involve injections
and therefore allergic reactions and side-effects
are unlikely. It is minimally invasive, involves
minimal downtime (max. 24hrs), rapid healing
and requires simple after-care. Clinical skin
needling is minimally invasive and normally no
blood is drawn, however small amounts of pin
point bleeding in clients with thin skin may
occur and should be considered as normal.
What topical can be used along with
the Medik8 Titanium Dermaroller/ Dermastamp?
Skin needling will induce collagen synthesis
on its own (dry skin needling), but skin improvements
is significantly enhanced by combining skin needling
treatments with the topical application of vitamin
A (Medik8 retinol serums) prior, during and post
treatment. Vitamin C (Medik8 CE-Tetra and C-Tetra)
is an essential co-factor to be used alongside
vitamin A. Both vitamin A and C work synergistically
to induce collagen synthesis and help regenerate
the skin. Because treatment with the Medik8 Titanium
Dermaroller/ Dermastamp can also enhance the
skin’s absorption of the active ingredients
from topical serums and creams, it is also highly
recommended to use the roller/ stamp with problem-targeted
serums and creams by Medik8, such as White Balance
for hyperpigmentation or Lipomelt Forte for cellulite.
Can the skin priming products be used
on the body too?
Both vitamin A and C serums would be no problem
to use on your thighs as they are absorbed very
well by the skin. As the treatment is on your
body, we recommend Hydr8 body mixed with Retinol
40 Boost to give maximum benefit.
What are the indications for having
a skin needling treatment?
Skin
needling is especially effective for ageing
concerns such as wrinkles, lines, folds and
crows feet. Because collagen is produced,
scars can also improve from treatments especially
indented acne scars or chicken pox scars. Pigmentation
issues can be helped including hyperpigmentation
as well as Hypopigmentation. General lack of
skin radiance, skin firmness and compactness
are also an indication for skin needling treatments
and visible improvements can be seen.
What are the contraindications of skin
needling treatments?
Relative contraindications
include; keloid or raised scarring; history
of eczema, psoriasis and other chronic conditions;
history of actinic (solar) keratosis; history
of Herpes Simplex infections; history of diabetes;
presence of raised moles, warts or any raised
lesions on targeted area. Absolute contraindications
include; scleroderma, collagen vascular diseases
or cardiac abnormalities; Rosacea and blood
clotting problems; active bacterial or fungal
infection; immunosuppression; scars less than
6 months old; and facial fillers in the past
6 months
Are there any
side effects or risks associated with skin
needling?
Side effects experienced with skin
needling are very minimal and usually subside
within 24 hours. They include redness, stinging,
itching, tightness and slight peelingtop
15.
Why is pre-treatment skin care recommended?
Medik8
have developed a range of products essential
for pre-treatment skin priming including a
vitamin C serum and a vitamin A serum. The
use of vitamin C and vitamin A serums before
skin needling prepares the skin to get it in
the best possible condition to receive and
accelerate the treatment. Once the skin is
fully primed the results of the treatment are
maximised and healing is rapid. Skin priming
is recommended for at least 4 weeks before
appointment
Immediately
after the treatment the skin may experience
light to moderate redness, sensitivity to touch,
itchiness and tightness. Discomfort rapidly
reduces throughout the day and no discomfort
is felt on day 2 following the treatment. On
this day, skin redness subsides or is greatly
diminished. On day 3 the treated skin area
heals and there is barely any evidence that
the procedure has taken place. Total downtime
is 24 hours for clinical treatments and medical
treatment is 48hours.
How can the doctor control the depth of
the needling?
The length of the needle ultimately
defines the potential depth of the procedure.
The titanium needles used in the Medik8 Dermarollers
are tapered and gold plated for optimum sharpness
and sterility, this ensures minimal pressure
is required for uniform needle penetration.
This allows the doctor to have complete control
at all times, resulting in an even depth of
the needling.
What is the main difference between the
Dermastamp and the Dermaroller?
Both the Titanium
devices are innovative skin rejuvenating techniques
in the form of skin needling. Titanium Dermaroller
has a cylindrical barrel with microneedles
arranged in rows which is rolled over the skin
to stimulate collagen and help rejuvenate the
skin area. Titanium Dermastamp boasts all the
benefits of the Titanium Dermaroller but the
circular head comprising 38 microneedles ensures
accuracy and precision for specific, localised
skin concerns and hard to reach areas.
Is there a difference between the needles
in the Titanium Dermastamp and Titanium Dermaroller
devices?
The needles in both devices are precision
engineered titanium needles which give a finer
and more durable edge, eliminating excess irritation
caused by ordinary steel needles. The needles
in the Titanium Dermaroller are arranged in
rows in a cylindrical barrel whereas the Titanium
Dermastamp has a circular head comprising 38
needles.
If I have wrinkles, which skin needling
device should I use?
Skin needling is very effective
for ageing concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles
and skin that has lost its elasticity. The
device used depends on the size and anatomical
site of the target concern. If the wrinkle
is isolated or around the eye or peri-oral
area, then the Dermastamp device would be best
suited due to its enhanced precision capabilities
to accurately target the concern. Larger areas
of ageing concerns such as forehead wrinkles
would be best treated with the Dermaroller.
If I have scars which skin needling device
should I use?
If you have localised, isolated
scars for example individual acne scars, then
the Titanium Dermastamp is ideal to accurately
target the scar to encourage rejuvenation.
Larger scarred areas for example, as a result
of major accident or large burn scars, then
the Titanium Dermaroller would be more appropriate.
If I have pigmentation issues, which device
should I use?
Isolated pigmentation issues
such as age spots or white spots can be accurately
targeted with the Titanium Dermastamp. Larger
areas of hyper- or hypo- pigmentation can be
focused on with the Titanium Dermaroller.
Can the Titanium Dermastamp and the Titanium
Dermaroller be used on all areas of the body?
The
Titanium Dermastamp can be used on all areas
of the face and body, including the delicate
eye and peri- oral area. This area is difficult
to reach with a Titanium Dermaroller which
was addressed in the design of the Titanium
Dermastamp.
Both
devices are available in personal use models
as well as clinical and medical treatments.
Instead of rolling the device across areas
of skin as with the Titanium Dermaroller,
smaller, targeted areas are ‘stamped’ with
the Titanium Dermastamp by repeatedly pressing
the needles into the skin concern.
Both
devices are safe and easy to use. Neither device
is easier to use over the other but they are
both designed to target different areas and
concerns. Titanium Dermastamp has an enhanced
handle grip for greater control and accuracy
during use.
Is there a difference between the mechanisms
of action?
The mechanism of action of the titanium
skin needling devices work in much the same
way. The precision engineered titanium needles
penetrate the epidermis of the skin and provide
penetration pathways to enhance the absorption
and consequently, the power of the topically
applied skin care product. In addition, longer
needles encourage independent stimulation of
new collagen synthesis, resulting from the
skin’s natural healing response.
Treatments are administered in a
similar way using anaesthetic if required followed
by needling and either finished with the application
of Medik8 skincare products or left as a dry
needling treatment.
Yes,
the devices will complement each other and
can be used together when a whole rejuvenating
treatment is wanted. For example, if a complete
anti-ageing facial treatment is required
then the Titanium Dermaroller can be used
on the larger areas on the face (cheeks and
forehead) followed by the Titanium Dermastamp
being used on the smaller, target areas (around
the eyes and peri-oral area).
βlue AOX™ is an aqueous based
water soluble antioxidant serum. The Antioxidant
ingredient is copper PCA which is 40 times
more powerful at scavenging free radicals compared
to vitamin C. The serum also has wound healing
and anti-inflammatory properties due to beta
glucan and niacinamide which makes it extremely
suitable for oily, combination or problematic
skin.
The
product meets the needs of the consumer who
has oily skin or the consumer who generally
dislikes using oil based products. Aqueous
alternative to C-Tetra or CE-Tetra as it
is a 100% oil free product. Wound healing
and anti-inflammatory properties help with
problematic skin.
What is the difference
between βlue
AOX and C-Tetra/ CE-Tetra?
βlue AOX™ is formulated into
a 100% oil-free serum so is suitable for people
who don’t like oil based products. The
antioxidant within βlue AOX is copper
PCA whereas in C-Tetra/ CE-Tetra the antioxidant
ingredient is tetrahexydecyl ascorbate. However,
both products are a part of the ‘prevent’ range
of the Medik8 skincare protocol.
The antioxidant ingredient
contained within βlue
AOX is copper PCA, the natural colour of copper
PCA when mixed with water is blue. The blue
shows copper is present in the product, therefore
the brightness of βlue AOX is indicative
of its potency and effectiveness.
βlue AOX™ is ideal following
cleansing with betaCleanse or poreCleanse.
After applying the serum, follow with a retinol
product at night and then a hydr8 product.
Copper PCA is the copper
salt of L-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid or L-PCA.
This is a physiological component of the epidermis,
obtained by cyclisation of glutamic acid.
Copper
PCA provides antioxidant defence through two
ways; it scavenges any peroxynitrite present
and also acts as a catalase mimetic. This means
Copper PCA quenches hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)
by converting it into water(H2O) and oxygen
(o2), thus relieving oxidative stress.
The
antioxidant activity of Copper PCA is exceptionally
high and highly specific to peroxynitrite and
hydroxyl radical. Therefore Copper PCA prevents
damage to skin cells associated with accumulation
of reactive oxygen species such as free radicals.
What is the connection between Firewall
and βlue AOX?
Both products contain the
patent pending technology of Copper PCA which
has been tested throughout development for
its impressive antioxidant ability. The technology
within Firewall is included into the complex
Cusodase-P; incorporated into the aqueous gel
phase of Firewall. Blue AOX is also an aqueous
solution to maximise the stability of Copper
PCA rather than a cream base.
Are Firewall and Blue AOX supposed to be
used in conjunction with each other?
Both Firewall
and Blue AOX contain the patent pending technology
of Copper PCA which has been tested throughout
development for its impressive antioxidant
ability. It is a matter of preference as to
which product you choose to use; Firewall is
a light weight and non-greasy formula with
anti-ageing peptides and as mentioned, Blue
AOX is an oil-free serum with additional skin
benefits of wound healing and anti-inflammatory
properties to help with problematic skin.
Cusodase-P is an anti-ageing complex, comprised
of a blend of active ingredients including
the breakthrough antioxidant molecule Copper
PCA. Copper PCA is the main active ingredient
within Blue AOX, however the Cusodase-P complex
as a whole is not contained in Blue AOX.
How is βlue AOX 40 times more
potent than L-Ascorbic acid?
‘40 times more
potent than L-Ascorbic acid’ is referring
to the relative antioxidant capacity in the
peroxynitrite radical assay.
Copper PCA, contained
within Blue AOX, has a remarkable antioxidant
activity against the specific ROS peroxynitrite
and hydroxyl radical; whereas vitamin C antioxidant
activity against these species is deficient.
The peroxynitrite radical assay in which they
have been tested, is usually referred to as
Total Antioxidant Power.
The potency of Blue
AOX is enhanced by being formulated into a
water based product as Copper PCA incorporated
into a product having a cream base (oil in
water) is potentially unstable and the antioxidant
capacity decays over time. This is likely due
to the oxidation of the copper PCA by reaction
with other components f the cream base.
Does the ‘AOX’ refer
to anti-oxidant photoprotection?
It is referring
to the antioxidant action on ROS which are
formed by UV that has reached the skin and
also as a natural by-product of the normal
metabolism of oxygen.
How is this aqueous solution transdermally
delivered?
βlue AOX has a slightly acidic profile
which is preferable to enhance the permeability
of the skin and thus the penetration of actives.
The ingredient beta-Glucan within βlue
AOX can effectively penetrate the skin the
same way that water penetrates a brick wall;
not through the brick, but through the cement.
Beta-Glucan passes through the inter-cellular
lipid matrix (the cells cement) to enter the
deeper layers of the skin and assists with
the transdermal delivery of the formulation
into the skin.
What are the key active ingredients
within the formula?
Prebiotics/probiotics
work to balance the skin’s natural
bacteria equilibrium, reducing blemish causing
bacteria on the skin’s
surface which leads to breakouts. Cinnamon
extract regulates the skin’s sebum production
to minimise excess shine, blemishes and acne
outbreaks. Essential moisture is retained by
niacinamide, which also offers anti-inflammatory
properties to decrease unwanted redness and
irritation. The skin’s wound healing
ability is boosted by the inclusion of beta-glucan,
which encourages cell regeneration and repair.
What is the difference between prebiotics
and probiotics?
Prebiotics are especially
important for vulnerable skin because they
encourage the growth of probiotics - the natural ‘good’ bacteria
which in turn help to eradicate the bacteria
at the root of acne. Probiotics can help to
balance the skin’s bacteria levels and
decrease acne causing bacteria.
How does the prebiotic/ probiotic technology
work?
Medik8 utilise the latest
prebiotic technology in cosmeceutical skin
science. Prebiotics present in Hydr8 Beta revolutionise
skincare as they are highly effective and at
the same time, extremely compatible with the
skin.
The purpose of prebiotics is to stimulate
the beneficial skin micro flora in order for
the skin to function as a healthy organ. When
Hydr8 Beta is applied to the skin these prebiotics
inhibit harmful or unwanted bacteria while
protecting the beneficial skin flora. Various
skin conditions which leave the skin vulnerable,
like acne and its associated inflammation,
are accelerated by the presence of unwanted
bacteria.
The
probiotic active ingredient is complemented
by cinnamon extract which improves the overall
health of the skin by specifically combating
the primary causes of skin imbalance. Skin
sebum production is regulated; especially
that of oily, acne prone types which in turn,
decreases the frequency of acne type lesions.
This is due to the high catechinic tannin
content of the extract which acts as a slight
astringent and stimulant of skin cells.
Will Hydr8 beta leave a shiny residue after
application?
Hydr8 beta consists
of a mattifying base which will ensure that
no shiny residue is left on the skin after
use. Cinnamon extract also regulates the sebum
production to minimise excess oil produced
by the sebaceous glands.
Is it necessary to apply a sunscreen
product as well?
It is always advisable to wear a
product containing an SPF to protect from UV
damage- even during the winter months. UV damage
is the biggest cause of premature ageing and
photodamage. For oily and acne prone skin,
a mineral sunscreen would be recommended to
minimise acne aggravation.
Does the product contain any ingredients
that can aggravate acne or are comedogenic?
Hydr8
beta is a lightweight and non-greasy formulation
that has the additional properties of being
non-drying, non-sensitising & non-irritating.
It is also non-acne aggravating and non-comedogenic
(does not clog the pores)
Hydr8
beta forms part of a continuous skincare regime
designed for daily use to assist in preventing
acne outbreaks. In the morning and evening,
after cleansing and applying your Medik8 Prevent
and/or Correct products.
The only skin types that are not suitable
for Hydr8 beta would be extremely dry as it
is tailored to the needs of acneic and oily
skin. Extremely dry skin would need a moisturising
product that has a very high emollient content.
Hydr8 beta is recommended for application
twice a day; once in the morning and once in
the evening. However, it is suitable for more
frequent use if desired.
Other
features of Hydr8 beta include; being an ideal
make up base, fragrance-free, paraben-free,
shelf life: 36 months, period after opening:
36 months.
What is the difference
between Hydr8 beta and Hydr8 Day?
Hydr8 beta
is specifically designed for skin that is oily
and acne prone due to the active ingredients
which mattify the skin and reduce acne causing
bacteria. Hydr8 Day is suitable for Normal
to dry and normal to oily skin.
Can Hydr8 B5 be used in conjunction with
Hydr8 beta?
Hydr8 B5 is very suitable for use
in conjunction with Hydr8 beta, especially
for combination skin types that require extra
hydration but suffer from acne outbreaks.
How will the clients skin benefit
from using Hydr8 beta?
Hydr8 beta will provide continuous hydration
with anti-inflammatory benefits, controlling
shine and oil production to create a mattifying
effect.
Where does the application of Hydr8 beta
fit into the Medik8 protocol?
Hydr8 beta is
a unique product which forms part of both the ‘Hydr8’ range
and the ‘beta’ range of the medik8
skincare lines. Hydr8 beta should be applied
after cleansing and applying your Medik8 Prevent
and/or Correct products.
Is it suitable
for combination skin that has dry patches yet
suffers from occasional acne outbreaks?
Hydr8
beta is very suitable for combination skin
as it provides hydration and at the same time
contains ingredients which help to prevent
future breakouts.
Can White Balance continue to be used when
on holiday?
You can continue to apply White
Balance during the day whilst on holiday, but
broad spectrum sun protection of factor 30+
must be worn at all times. This will reduce
the chance of any further hyperpigmentation
occurring, however it is strongly advise to
avoid direct exposure to UV rays to minimise
the risk of damage to skin. White Balance is
also very suitable for use after periods of
time in sunlight to help prevent the formation
of hyperpigmentation.
What are the main active ingredients in
White Balance?
White Balance Serum contains
a proprietary blend of botanical extracts (Gigawhite)
and Alpha- Arbutin to actively interfere with
melanin synthesis, leading to lighter blemish-free
complexion. 1-Methylhydantoine-2-imide (Cosmo
C250) exhibits skin brightening and conditioning
properties, whilst reducing the appearance
of brown spots.
An immediate brightening effect can
be noticed when using White Balance Serum,
however continued daily use for at least 4
weeks is needed in order to notice an improvement
in dark spots and hyperpigmentation. This time
can vary between individuals.
Which products can be used in combination
with White Balance Serum?
White Balance is suitable
for use in combination with all Medik8 products.
Use in conjunction with antioxidant serum CE-Tetra
or C-Tetra for enhanced brightening effects
but apply White Balance Serum first. Using
retinol products at night will also assist
in whitening.
Does Alpha-Arbutin’s relationship
to Tyrosine have a connection the Melanin
production?
Yes,
it does. Tyrosine is an amino acid and a precursor
of melanin. An enzyme called tyrosinase converts
tyrosine into melanin during exposure to UV
light.
Melanocytes are the pigment
producing cells situated at the base of the
epidermis. Our genetic skin colour is determined
by the amount of melanocytes present in the
epidermis (the higher the number of melanocytes
the darker the skin tone). Melanocytes protect
keratinocytes, (cells located in the top layers
of the epidermis) from UV-induced mutation
and damage by producing and coating the upper
layer of keratinocytes with melanin pigment
(converted from tyrosine). This process is
commonly known as tanning. In response to different
triggers, such as hormones, skin injury, inflammation
or medications, melanocytes can start to overproduce
melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation if the
skin is not protected from UV exposure.
Melanin
synthesis is dependent on the activity of the
tyrosinase enzyme and therefore by inhibiting
tyrosinase we can inhibit melanin production
and lead to lighter complexion.
Cosmo-C250 (1-Methylhydantoine-2-imide),
included in White Balance at 1.5% (maximum
proven trial dosage), is an amino acid derivative
occurring naturally in the body that has
demonstrated a potent ability to inhibit
tyrosinase activity in melanocytes leading
to a reduction in skin hyperpigmentation.
In trials, after 28 days of continued use,
Cosmo-C250 used at a concentration of 0.1%
outperformed Kojic Acid formulated at 1.0%
meaning it is 10 times more effective.
The
active ingredients within White Balance are
water soluble hence formulated in an aqueous
gel. The polarity of the formulation is the
driving force for the penetration of the actives
into the skin to reach the pigment producing
melanocytes present in the epidermis.
Infin8
is THE second generation Injection-Free alternative
to Botulinum Toxin that is proven to be 30%
stronger than ANY other corresponding Argireline
product and is EXCLUSIVE to Medik8®.
Pretox Infin8® contains 20% octapeptide – the
elongated form of Argireline® – the
current front-runner before Infin8®.
Expect to see a reduction in wrinkle depth
of up to 50% in as little as 30 days although
of course individual results vary and some
users respond more slowly – 6-8 weeks
is common.
Does Infin8® incorporate dermal
filling properties?
No. Infin8 is a very strong Botox® alternative
and is the upgrade to Argireline products.
However to get the benefits of dermal filling – recommend
either Prefill® which is the Medik8 dermal
filler to be used together with Infin8® or
Pretox 3-HTP® which not only contains 23%
of the wonder peptide Argireline®, but
also contains a pentapeptide and a tetrapeptide
which repair the damage from free radicals
and encourages collagen and elastin production
in the deeper layers of skin.
Pretox® reduces the
depth of the wrinkles in the face caused by
the contraction of the muscles of facial expression,
especially in the forehead & crows feet
at the side of the eyes. In contrast to botulinum
toxin, its mechanism does not cause paralysis
and it allows natural expression and movement,
while relaxing the repeating contraction of
the muscle causing the wrinkle.
Pretox
Infin8 can take anything between 6-12 weeks
to start showing results depending on the client’s
age, and the severity of the lines and wrinkles.
Peptides do not work instantaneously although
mild tightening will be felt in a few minutes,
the full effect takes upto 3 months - so patients
may not notice dramatic changes to begin with – this
is why the bottle is 50ml and not 30ml like
some others.
Just like
Botox, the effect of peptides will wear off
over time and so reapplication is required
to maintain results however after the initial
twice daily application over the loading phase
has achieved the desired results – the
reduction to a once daily application 5 times
per week will maintain the changes will not
be maintained if the patient ceases to use
the products, so they must be reminded of this.
Our skin continues to change according to its
health and ageing risk factors so, to maintain
the change, the product must be used continually.
Apply
a small amount on the forehead, between the
eyebrows (glabella) and at the side of the
eyes (crow’s feet). Do not apply
under or on top of the eyelid.
Yes Pretox Infin8 will work alongside
any other skincare brand just apply it immediately
after cleansing; allow it to dry and then follow
with your normal skin products on top.
What is the recommended treatment
price for PDT with Light Amplifier™ RX?
To
remain competitive in the market, the recommended
treatment price for each PDT treatment with
Light Amplifier™ RX is £60;
with a course of 8-12 treatments depending
on the clients skin concern. An additional
option is to offer an off peak treatment price
of £50-55 to encourage business at quieter
times.
How long before the PDT treatment
should Light Amplifier™ RX be applied
to the client?
As a guideline, Light Amplifier™ RX
should be left on the skin 15 minutes prior
to the light exposure for most skin conditions
and up to 180 minutes for severely sun damaged
skin. Therapists should assess the client’s
skin and make a judgement of how long the Light
Amplifier™ RX is left on the skin on
an individual basis.
What is the recommended treatment
course for PDT with Light Amplifier™ RX?
Between
8 and 12 PDT treatments will be required depending
on the severity of the skin condition being
targeted. These treatments need to be spaced
3 weeks apart.
What is the purpose of the retail
version of Light Amplifier™?
PDT Lamps are
available to purchase by the client for home-use.
These are to assist the treatment of skin concerns
including acne, photo-damage, actinic keratosis,
irregular pigmentation and enlarged pores.
Medik8 have formulated a product designed for
use in combination with the home-use PDT lamps
to greatly enhance results compared to the
light alone. The main active ingredient within
Light Amplifier™ is
Levulinic acid; included in the retail product
at 10%.
What is the difference between the
professional Light Amplifier™ RX and
the retail Light Amplifier™
Both Light Amplifier™ products
are designed to maximize the effects of PDT.
Light Amplifier™ RX is for professional
use only and contains 20% Levulinic acid. Retail
Light Amplifier™ is for home-use PDT
lamps and contains 10% Levulinic acid.
The
main contraindications for PDT include: allergy
to any of the Light Amplifier™ RX
ingredients, known photosensitivities, porphyria,
lupus, Rosacea, recent chemotherapy or radiation,
sunburn/ client non- compliance with adequate
sunscreen, and suntan (must be at least two
weeks old including those attained through
sun beds and self-tanners).
The
wavelengths of the PDT light penetrate deep
down into the pilosebaceous unit where it stimulates
the production of oxygen, due to a chemical
reaction within the congested pore, which in
turn will encourage the destruction of the
acne-causing bacteria (p. acnes). These acne
causing bacteria thrive in anaerobic (airless)
conditions, so once oxygen is reintroduced
to the pore over a period of time, the bacteria
will dissipate and therefore a reduction
in comedones will be exhibited.
Light Amplifier™ RX contains two active
ingredients, levulinic acid and bergamot, which
will ‘highlight’ the pilosebaceous
units and make the application of the light
far more targeted to the correct area within
the skin. The light is absorbed directly into
the pilosebaceous unit, concentrating the production
of oxygen in the oil-producing sebaceous gland
thus destroying the acne-causing bacteria at
the site of blockage.
What is the difference between other
photosensitising products and Medik8 Light
Amplifier™?
There
are currently limited products on the market
that offer the photosensitising benefits of
Medik8 Light Amplifier Technology to enhance
the results following PDT treatments.
Light
Amplifier™ contains two active
photosensitising ingredients along with a penetration
enhancer. This means the actives can penetrate
the skin with greater efficacy and reach the
sebaceous glands to concentrate the production
of oxygen where it is required. The inclusion
of a penetration enhancer and the synergistic
effects of the actives, allows for a much shorter
contact time of the product; so the whole PDT
treatment can be completed in one visit by
the client.
What is the difference between the
Levulinic acid in Light Amplifier™ and
ALA?
There
are a number of differences between aminolevulinic
acid (ALA) and Levulinic acid (LA) where LA
has clear advantages for cosmetic use with
PDT.
LA has much better transcutaneous absorption
than ALA and combined with the penetration
enhancer PP2 present in Light Amplifier, LA
will be transported directly into the pilosebacious
unit. LA also has a much higher bioavailability
than ALA and will therefore produce the most
beneficial effects when used with PDT. LA is
easily obtained from natural resources such
as fermentation of wild yams, whereas ALA has
to be chemically synthesised.
LA has a dual
effect of being both a photosensitiser by itself
and also by acting as a competitive inhibitor
of d-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) dehydratase
meaning that the skin's own ALA is increased
by applying LA. It is a different way of introducing
ALA rather than simply applying it directly.
LA
is very effective and you can feel it working
so there is no question of efficacy versus
ALA. LA is classed as a pH buffer which is
how we are able to offer serious results with
a cosmetic regulated ingredient. Medik8 has
compared results and user feedback from LA
vs. ALA and found LA to be superior. Medik8
are working on a blend in the future.
LA and
ALA are photosensitisers but are not phototoxic.
It is
possible to treat a localised problematic area
using PDT and Light Amplifier. Apply the solution
only to the areas to be treated, the nose and
chin for example or a specific lesion, and
leave the rest of the face ‘bare’.
Follow the protocol as normal, administering
the Light to the entire area – the
application of the topical solution will
focus the light to the problem areas where
the oxygen production is most required and
the light over the remaining area will work
at lower levels.
How long does it take before the client
can see results?
Length of results will vary
from client to client, dependent upon their
skin type, cause of skin problem and their
lifestyle. Following the initial PDT treatment
course (8-12 treatments), the client should
expect to see an overall improvement in their
skin condition, with a notable reduction in
lesions.
Generally, clients should observe a 70% reduction
in lesions by week 8 of the treatment. If clients
continue with the course for a further 4 weeks,
meaning that they complete a 12 week course,
then the reduction in lesions should increase
to over an 85% reduction of inflammation and
associated acne lesions.
Are there any possible
side effects of PDT with Light Amplifier™?
Common side
effects which usually subside within 48 hours
include; erythema, swelling, tightness, discomfort,
acne breakouts and localised pain in acne lesions.
Side effects may occur if the client is allergic
or sensitised to any of the ingredients in
the topical solution including scaling/crusting,
scabbing, itching and skin erosion. Medik8
stipulate that a patch test and irradiation
is required at least 48 hours prior to the
client’s first PDT
session.
Side effects may occur if the client does
not follow the aftercare instructions. They
must bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
to wear when they leave, if they are having
the treatment with Medik8’s topical solution.
All information regarding
PDT and Light Amplifier™ can be found
in the Professional Treatment Guide in the
Medik8 Library.
In addition to this, the following
publication reviews current literature on cosmetic
uses of PDT as well as the effects of combining
the use of Levulinic acid:
