Diamonds For The Rough

The renowned tokens of love take on a non-invasive cosmetic procedure.

BY: HILARY KELLEY

Recently, I experienced Diamond Microdermabrasion at DLK, the home office of Toronto-based dermatologist Dr. Lisa Kellett. Diamond exfoliation is the latest in a series of professional exfoliation treatments. This process takes place when the rotating diamond-tipped head (composed of diamond chips) of a surgical wand makes contact with the skin and delicately polishes away the dead skin cells, which can smooth fine lines and, in some cases, lighten age spots. While this polishing is taking place, the dead skin cells are vacuumed away, leaving the skin baby-soft and refreshed.

Removal of the stratum corneum (dead outermost surface of the skin) has become a common treatment, available in dermatologist’s offices, in spas and at home. In the past, microdermabrasion was performed using slightly abrasive micro-crystals. However, the process has been carefully refined and today the procedure is much more comfortable with no downtime. The treatment can be used on many areas of the body and is effective for all types of skin. It is considered one of the short “lunch- hour” procedures. Most patients require a number of treatments, and improvement continues throughout the series.

Home alternatives to professional systems are readily available for controlled exfoliation from most beauty counters. As with all home procedures, one must follow the directions carefully.

These versions, shown here, are easy to use and, although not as powerful as dermo options, can produce good results over time. Most of the formulas contain particles from various sources, including oatmeal, that gradually remove dead skin for a more sparkling complexion.

1) NeoStrata Skin Resurfacing Duo, (only one jar shown), $70

2) Dr. Brandt High Performance Microdermabrasion, $75

3) Lara Beauty Polishing Microderm Abrasion, $32

4) Dermalogica Daily Resurfacer, $97

5) Kiehl’s Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion, $55

6) Creative Scentsations Hand & Body Scrub, $21

(March 2009)