Welcome back to my Treatment Spotlight series – where I review various cosmetic treatments to give my readers an idea of what to expect. Today, I am reviewing a treatment that is loved by many that come through our JECT doors, Skin Tightening. 

The Skin Tightening facial is exactly what it sounds like, it tightens the skin by increasing collagen production to the tissue. Slight disclaimer: while I truly can see the reason this treatment is popular, I am speaking from a perspective of a 23 year old with 23 year old skin, 23 year old anatomy, and 23 year old facial structure. With all of that being said, I also only received one treatment and this is one of those treatments that is recommended to be done in a series to see optimal effects.

Skin Tightening is actually a very non-invasive treatment in that it involves heating up the tissue to stimulate collagen production. What is collagen? Collagen is a type of connective tissue that keeps your organs and tissues together. Not just your skin, hair and nails, but your ligaments, bones, and major organ systems. In terms of cosmetic usage, collagen is important because as we age, collagen production decreases which is what causes sagging of the skin and other age related changes.

An easy way to conceptualize the way this collagen induction therapy is by use of a cooking metaphor. Think about a nice piece of raw chicken – now think about what happens when you put it on a hot pan…the meat gets smaller and tighter. This same idea was the basis behind this skin tightening treatment.

The treatment begins with a thorough cleanse of any makeup or excess dirt from the skin with micellar water. Once my skin is clean, ultrasound gel is applied to the skin – think of this almost as a buffer so that the heat applied by the device isn’t as intense. The best way to describe the feeling of each pulse is as if you were to get a hot stone massage on your face. With each pass, the provider increases the intensity of the heat therefore recruiting more collagen to the area. After the treatment you can expect slight redness of the skin which will subside within the next hour or so. Other than that, you’ll notice more of a contour to whichever area you decide to treat and some plumpness (it is recommended you drink tons of water to increase the longevity of these effects).

The biggest risk associated with this treatment is potential burning which is usually because of improper technique. Depending on if the machine is monopolar or bipolar it’s important that if it’s bipolar that both poles are in contact with the skin at all times!

Whether you have an upcoming event (which nowadays is unlikely) or you just want a refreshed look, Skin Tightening is a great option to consider. And wherever you go make sure they know what they’re doing!