Medical Facials in South Africa

The ideal candidate for a Medical Facial is anyone seeking to enhance their skin’s health and appearance.

These facials are suited for various skin concerns, including signs of skin ageing, pigmentation, acne and acne scarring, dry and dehydrated skin, and general skin maintenance.

A comprehensive skin assessment, including a VISIA skin analysis, is essential before each new treatment journey to tailor the facial to your specific needs. This personalised approach ensures that the Medical Facial addresses your unique skin concerns effectively.

A Medical Facial is an immersive treatment process. For new patients, it begins with a detailed consultation to analyse your specific skin concerns.

This is followed by a customised facial treatment, tailored to individual needs. The procedure includes deep cleansing, a carefully selected chemical peel, and the application of moisturiser and SPF, to rejuvenate and revitalise the skin.

The deep cleansing process effectively removes impurities, while the chemical peel assists in exfoliating the top layer of skin, removing dead skin cells, promoting the regeneration of new cells, leading to improved skin texture and a more even-toned complexion. Additionally, the application of moisturiser and SPF ensures thorough skin replenishment and protection, contributing to its overall health and vitality.

Post-treatment, clients are provided with specialised home care product minis to sustain and enhance the treatment’s effects. Our expert team offers comprehensive post-treatment guidance to ensure optimal and lasting skin health benefits.

Medical Facials are performed by qualified skin care specialists in a clean, clinical environment. 

During the treatment, patients wear a robe, allowing access to the face, neck, and shoulders. 

A Medical Facial will include:

• Cleansing
• Steaming (if needed)
• Extractions
• Chemical Peel
• Application of moisturiser and SPF

Post-treatment, you might experience redness, tightness, or slight peeling. Your Skincare Specialist will provide detailed post-treatment care instructions for optimal skin recovery.

Medical Facials offer a range of benefits for the skin. These treatments have been clinically proven to target various skin concerns, such as:

• Ageing: Medical Facials can help in addressing signs of ageing, including fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a more youthful appearance.
• Dull and uneven skin tone: They are effective in replenishing the skin, resulting in a more radiant and even complexion.
• Reduction in pigmentation: Medical Facials can reduce hyperpigmentation issues, leading to a more balanced skin tone.
• Reduction in acne scarring: For individuals with acne scars, these facials can contribute to a smoother skin texture and a reduction in the appearance of acne scars.
• Resurfacing of the skin: By promoting cell regeneration, Medical Facials can resurface the skin, revealing a healthier and smoother complexion.

Results after a Medical Facial typically begin to show soon after treatment, with an immediate post-treatment glow. Full results, including improvements in skin texture, tone, and a reduction in fine lines, pigmentation, or acne scarring, can be expected within 2-4 weeks. The specific time frame may vary depending on individual skin types and concerns, as well as the type of chemical peel treatment received.

The number of Medical Facials needed to see results varies based on individual skin concerns and conditions. Visible changes are often noticeable after the first treatment, but the total number of sessions required depends on the severity of skin issues and the specific goals of the treatment.

A personalised consultation with a Skincare Specialist is essential to determine the appropriate number of treatments for optimal results. The treatment plan includes a tailored approach considering the individual’s skin needs and commitment to aftercare.

It’s generally recommended to have a Medical Facial every 4 to 6 weeks. This frequency allows for optimal skin renewal while maintaining the health and appearance of the skin, especially when used as a maintenance treatment in conjunction with more advanced skin procedures. Regular facials can help sustain the benefits and improvements achieved from each session.

The duration of a Medical Facial varies depending on the specific area being treated. Typically, a complete facial treatment, including the full face, can take around 30 – 60 minutes.

The recovery time for a Medical Facial is minimal, with no downtime required. Patients can usually resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. Some may experience mild redness, a sunburn-like sensation, and slight peeling or dryness for a few days. It’s important to follow post-treatment care instructions, like avoiding sun exposure and applying SPF 50, to ensure optimal healing and results.

The cost of a Medical Facial can vary based on the specific treatment, area size, and the number of sessions needed.

The cost of a Medical Facial is R1 350 per session, including an aftercare pack of product minis.

Alternatives to a Medical Facial for addressing hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, ageing, and acne scarring include several specialised treatments.

The Glow Getter Facial combines a Chemical Peel, Lumecca IPL, and a hydrating Crystal Fibre Sheet Mask, to improve skin texture and radiance.

The FORMA™ HydraLyft utilises a Chemical Peel with Hyaluronic Acid infusion and FORMA™ Radio Frequency to enhance skin texture and address signs of ageing, such as fine lines and lax skin.

Additionally, 3D Medical Skin Needling makes use of Dermapen needling with active ingredients to stimulate collagen production, enhancing skin rejuvenation and reducing signs of ageing.

Each treatment is tailored to meet individual skin concerns. To find the best solution for your skin needs, book a consultation with our Skincare Specialists for a personalised assessment and treatment plan.

Yes, Medical Facials are safe when performed by qualified Skincare Specialists in a clean medical environment. These treatments are carefully designed to suit a wide range of skin types and are supported by a thorough evaluation and personalised guidance, ensuring their effectiveness and safety for each individual’s unique skin needs.

While Medical Facials are generally safe when conducted by qualified professionals in a medical environment, there are some potential side effects.

These can include mild erythema (redness), temporary hypo- or hyperpigmentation (lightening or darkening of the skin), and slight skin irritation.

Severe reactions like severe post-treatment erythema, sterile pustules, and severe peeling are rare.

Discussing allergies, medical conditions, or skin issues with a specialist is essential to minimise risks. While most patients don’t experience severe reactions, awareness of potential complications is important for informed decision-making.

The suitability of these facials varies, especially for individuals with certain skin conditions, weakened immune systems, or specific allergies.

We empower our clients with knowledge-driven, effective skincare treatments. Each client’s skincare journey begins with a VISIA Skin Care Analysis, offering an objective evaluation of their skin. Following this, an in-depth consultation with a Skincare Specialist is conducted to discuss and address specific skin concerns. This approach ensures a personalised treatment plan tailored to individual needs, focusing on achieving the best possible outcomes for skin health and appearance.

What to do before the Medical Facial

1. Avoid strong at-home facial treatments or exfoliation in the week leading up to your appointment.
2. Stay away from sun exposure, including tanning, for five days prior.
3. Know and list the skin care products you currently use, as this helps your specialist personalise recommendations.
4. Inform your Skincare Specialist about any medications, medical conditions, or past skin issues, as these can affect treatment.
5. For first-timers, especially before a major event, schedule an initial consultation about six weeks in advance, with a follow-up closer to the event, as this will allow time to address any adverse or unexpected reactions.
6. Prepare to discuss your skin goals; your specialist will create a detailed plan for you.

We recommend that you refrain from aesthetic procedures like Botulinum Toxin, Facial Fillers, and Threads two weeks before and after the facial.

Day of the Medical Facial

On the day of your Medical Facial, you’ll complete a medical questionnaire to assist in customising your treatment. You’ll need to change into a robe as your Skincare Specialist will work on your face, neck, and shoulders. The treatment process includes:

• A thorough cleansing of your skin.
• Extractions to clear any clogged pores or blackheads.
• Application of a chemical peel tailored to your skin’s needs.
• Finishing with the application of moisturiser and SPF to hydrate and protect your skin.

 After the Medical Facial

After a Medical Facial, it’s common to experience some redness and localised swelling. Pigmented lesions may darken initially before lightening, and vascular lesions might appear bruised. These are normal reactions, and full recovery typically occurs within 4 to 7 days.

AFTERCARE PRODUCTS AND ADVICE

• Cleanse your skin twice daily with an antibacterial wash using lukewarm or cool water.
• Apply recommended cooling gels to soothe the skin post-treatment.
• Your Skincare Specialist will suggest a suitable moisturiser to enhance healing and maintain results.
• Daily application of SPF 50 is essential to protect your skin.
• Avoid facial waxing for 7 days after the treatment.
• Limit sun exposure for 2 to 7 days following the treatment.
• Refrain from exercising for 24 hours after the treatment.

The treatment includes a custom aftercare pack with products to support your skin’s recovery.

Medical Facials are performed at Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, located in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. This high-end, luxurious clinic, founded by Dr. Wilkinson, is known for its advanced aesthetic treatments and state-of-the-art facilities. The clinic is well-regarded for its expertise in skincare and aesthetic procedures, providing a sophisticated and exclusive environment for its clients.