I was invited to Eden Beauty Group in Wicklow a couple of weeks ago (it’s only a few minutes past Dundrum on the m50). The treatment was so relaxing, informative and, most importantly, effective! I had really bad acne a couple of years ago, so bad that it left scars on my cheeks. If it wasn’t for those scars, I’d be very comfortable not wearing makeup, so I’d really like to get rid of them. I have tried most skincare brands and none of them have managed to get rid of them so I knew I would have to have some further professional treatments done.
When I arrived to Eden Beauty, as well as the scarring, my cheeks were really dry with scaly patches. You can also see from the before picture below, that I was suffering from a breakout when I went for the treatment.
A few days before my treatment, I discussed these concerns with Susan, the owner of Eden Beauty Group, and even sent her some pictures. Susan then tailor made my treatment with all of this in mind.
This blog post will give you an idea of those treatments that might benefit you. It’s educational in general and details treatments including microdermabrasion, AFA peels and LED light therapy. Although, if you go to Eden Beauty Group, Susan talks you through exactly what she’s doing to your skin at all times, which I really appreciate.
Step 1: Amino acid Filaggrin based Antioxidants (AFA) Peel
AFA are based on the same amino acids that play an integral part of our skin’s natural moisture system. They are clinically proven to increase moisture levels in the skin by 3, and because they exfoliate so deeply, they’re effective in reducing fine lines, pigmentation, rosacea, acne scarring and sun damage.
Once Susan cleansed my skin with the AFA Cleanser, she applied the peel. It tingled my skin, which is normal, but it’s not in any way sore or irritable. It was removed after about 5 minutes and followed by the AFA Moisturiser. These peels come in different strengths and after each one, you can have a stronger one applied.
Step 2: Microdermabrasion
This was the most uncomfortable part of the treatment for me, in fact, it was the only uncomfortable part. In saying that, it was probably the most effective.
Microdermabrasion removes the dead skin cells on the surface so it’s ideal for anyone with dull skin or acne scarring. It’s also said to stimulate cell production and remove dead skin cells which can lead to blocked pores and cause break outs.
It was a burning sensation almost but at the same time, I really enjoyed it because I could feel it working hard at removing that dead skin layer (I’m a sadist!). Once that layer is removed, skincare products can penetrate the skin more deeply and makeup sits better.
As soon as the microdermabrasion was over, Susan applied an anti-inflammatory, Casmara stabiliser and it was so soothing and cooling, the burning sensation and any sensitivity disappeared almost immediately.
Step 3: Casmara Reaffirming Peel Off Mask
I loved this mask. It’s black because it contains charcoal, which removes impurities, and seaweed which is a natural moisturiser. Susan mixed the mask in a bowl until it was a paste and then applied it all over.
After a few minutes, the mask dried, but instead of drying like mud, it went like rubber! It was so awesome! It just peeled away and I was given it to take home with me. I even got to use it again the next day.
Step 4: LED Light Therapy
I promise, there is a method to this madness! LED light therapy is said to stimulate the cells that produces collagen and slow down the enzymes that break it down. If that’s not enough to convince you, NASA scientists used LED lights to grow plants in space and then noticed that when subjected to the red LED lights, astronauts healed faster! So… IT WORKS!
During my LED therapy, there were 3 lights used. Red for anti-ageing, blue for healing and killing bacteria and pink which is a combination of the two.
This part of the treatment lasted for 30 minutes and it was very relaxing. You would need more than one treatment to see the full effects of this but Kate Hudson, Jessica Alba and Kourtney Kardashian are all fans, so what’s good enough for them…!
Step 5: Aftercare
Following all of the above, your skin will be sensitive and so SPF is essential, as it is every day! Also, try not to wear makeup for 24 hours so that it can breathe and fully recover.
My skin was pinkish for the 2 days following the treatment and I still had a bit of a break out because the peel draws out impurities. However, on the third day, on which the below picture was taken, my skin was so bright, plump and there was a significant reduction in the scars on my cheeks. Susan did say that for the best results, I would need a course of treatments but the difference after just one is incredible!
If you’re interested in having a tailor made skincare treatment at the Eden Beauty Group, you can contact them via social media, email at reception@edenbeautygroup.com or alternatively, you can call on 040461295.
Author: Carly Colgan Bates
