Why it works … Ultimate Aroma Radiance Lift

Providing a non invasive alternative to treatments such as Botox, this is the electrical facelift that still manages to leave you feeling relaxed as well!  Amida Spa Hampton explains what it’s all about …

What exactly is the Ultimate Aroma Radiance Lift?

It’s an electrical facial system similar to CACI and Guinot Hydradermie, but from Aromatherapy Associates, using their own products and variations.  There are three different facials to choose from, the Aroma Lift which lifts and tones as the name suggests; Aroma Clear which is a decongesting facial and is great for acne; and the Ultimate Aroma Radiance Lift, a luxurious combination of the two.  This particular one is 90 minutes, and as with any Aromatherapy Associates treatment you have a consultation, followed by a manual cleanse and tone using a range of products to suit your skin.  That’s followed by an enzyme exfoliation using a fruit enzyme peel with Papaya extract which is then removed before starting the electrical aspects.  This begins with micro circulation, circular movements with a metal probe and a rose hydrating mask, which is one of the brand’s favourite products.  This gets the blood flowing, and we follow it with drainage movements, which are a bit slower than micro circulation, then there is a lifting sequence; about half an hour’s worth of lifting movements and smoothing to tighten and brighten the skin.  Clients then have an intense hydration section using a rolling probe to plump the skin before applying an overnight prepare mask which is warmed first.  While that works you have a shoulder and décolleté massage, then the mask is removed and followed by a high frequency part of the treatment and finishing with a Layer Lock.  As with all Aromatherapy Associates facials we apply eye care depending on the client, a hydrating serum, facial and a moisturiser.  It sounds like a lot, and as a therapist I was really sceptical when I first heard of it, but they call it layer locking and it’s best to think of it as a meal for the skin, where the serum is your drink of water, the oil is like the nutrients, and the moisturiser is like closing the mouth to make sure all the goodness stays in.

Where does it come from?

It is an Aromatherapy Associates treatment drawing on the examples set by CACI and Guinot.  Electrical Facials have almost become a little old fashioned with the advent of Botox, but this is really the alternative for people who don’t want to go down that route.

What is it supposed to do?

It’s supposed to be 10 times more effective and penetrative than a normal facial because of the electrical aspect which circulates through the skin almost like our blood vessels do, so you get more benefit from each of the products.  It’s an all in one clearing, drainage, toning and moisturising treatment.

Is there anything you do to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment?

The massage element adds a bit of relaxation, and a really nice aspect that separates it from other facials is that we use treatment orbs to heat the products before they are applied, making it a much more enjoyable and relaxing experience, which people don’t necessarily expect from an electrical facial.  The movements of the probes can also seem a little daunting, but because it is repetitive and smoothing it is relaxing.

Is there anything you recommend clients to do pre or post-treatment to get the most out of it?

Remove all jewellery before the treatment, and if you are going to an event, don’t have it immediately before - have it 24 ours prior to parties.  We see the best results after that time when the products have had time to work.  You do see a difference immediately and we have done tests on half the face to show that, but the products continue to work because of the active ingredients. Aromatherapy Associates are known for using the first extraction of essential oils in their products, which are the most potent.

Is there anyone you particularly recommend the treatment for?

More mature clients who are looking for wrinkle reduction and toning, but it’s also nice as a preventative treatment for anti ageing.  It’s great for anyone who wants a real boost, but doesn’t want to go down the surgical route.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t have this treatment and why?

Any metal pins, plates, and fillings should be mentioned before the treatment to adjust it accordingly.  Anyone with epilepsy, pacemakers, extremely high blood pressure, and pregnant women should avoid the treatment.