There are facials, and then there’s face maintenance...
Written by: Laura Fulton
So what's the deal?
The Kaya Advanced Facial is like an overhaul for your skin, using just a bit of micro-dermabrasion to really make your skin glow. After a general clean, the technician gets down to business, using the equivalent of a mini sand blaster to scour away grunge and fine lines while a tiny vacuum sucks the debris away.
Once those offending layers of skin are gently polished away, the technician uses an extractor to dig out stubborn blackheads (you’d be amazed by how much gunk the average person carries around in their pores). Thoroughly clean, the skin is then soothed with an aloe vera gel massage followed by a rehydrating mask to plump the skin with all the right kinds of moisture and finally a pore-tightening toner. If you go during the day, you’ll also leave with a layer of sunscreen to protect your fresh face.
Why go?
This is one serious facial, guaranteeing great results. You can see positive effects as soon as you sit up, even if you’re nudging your way towards a certain age. And while it might sound like something right out of The Torturer’s Handbook, the micro-dermabrasion shouldn’t hurt – if it does, let your technician know.
Why go?
They call Kaya a clinic, rather than a spa, for a reason. The purpose of this treatment is maintenance, so while the aloe vera gel is chilled to a point just shy of uncomfortable, you can be sure to walk out of the clinic without any residual redness from the initial cleaning process. Your technician should start by testing your skin to make sure none of the products or procedures are too harsh for you.
What? Kaya Advanced Facial
Where? Kaya Skin Clinic
The treatment: A serious facial with seriously good results
Cost: AED 350
We say: Perfect for skin that needs to look new again
Contact: Karamah Street branch: 02 445 9923 | Al Raha Mall branch: 02 556 2911
Budget Beauty
Q:
Professional beauty products can be so expensive. Do you have any tips on buying beauty products at affordable prices?
A:
Although some beauty products can be bought only at professional stores, the local Co-Op houses beauty treasures that I personally stock up on in my kit. Here are my favourite finds.
- Made with cucumber extract, aloe vera, and ginseng; Cool & Cool Cleansing and Make-Up Removing Wipes are strong enough to remove waterproof mascara while leaving skin feeling fresh. Double pack, AED 11.75. Look for the Cool & Cool promotional packs, affordably priced.
- With a wide range of colours like Strawberry, Pomegranate, Pearl & Shine, and UV-protective formulas, Labello Lipcare keeps lips glossy, coloured, moisturised and protected. AED 7.85.
- Ayurvedic-based skin care, Himalaya Herbals products are all-natural and affordable. Their peach-coloured eye cream erases blue under-eye circles. AED 32.30, 15ml. Look out for their promotional packs, priced at less than AED 30.
- L’Oreal’s Elnett Satin Hairspray is the hairspray chosen by professionals – and for good reason. AED 36.50 for 200ml.
- Once I discovered Veet Wax Strips, I bid farewell to hot wax forever. The strips are convenient, easy, and guaranteed to give you smooth legs in minutes – and the results last for weeks. Each box includes oil-based wipes to soothe and moisturise skin. Double pack, each box containing ten strips, AED 22.50
- Coconut oil has long been known for its health and beauty benefits. Parachute Gold Coconut Hair Oil is a great way to keep your hair healthy, shiny and protect it from future damage. Apply 30 minutes before washing. Double pack, each 200 ml, AED 10.60.
- Vo5 Hot Oil Hair Treatments: My hairstylist swears by this treatment, claiming it’s as good as any professional treatment for damaged hair. Only AED 17.50 for four tubes.
Our Budget Beauty advisor is Lina, a professional makeup artist. Visit www.LinasMakeup.com
