There are plenty of ways of lifting the face without going under the knife. Harprit Thacker, Lecturer and Coordinator in Beauty Therapy at Birmingham College of Food, Tourism and Creative Studies, recommends a few:
There are various micro-electric current treatments available. These work by passing a low frequency electrical current through the skin, which stimulates the facial tissue. It's a very effective treatment with excellent results: it tones sagging muscles and improves the appearance of the upper layers of the skin, smoothing away fine lines and wrinkles.
Facial faradic treatment works along similar lines, with electric currents stimulating facial muscle groups. This is different from other micro-currents as it works mainly on the underlying muscle groups and has less impact on the appearance of the skin. It is particularly suited to mature skins.
Micro-electric treatments are often used in conjunction with nutrients such as collagen or elastin ampoules that can be rollered onto the face. These hydrate and build up the elastic fibres in the skin, which plump it out, reducing fine lines. Ampoules can be applied manually, but using them after micro-electric treatment encourages deeper penetration into the facial tissue.
How about the straightforward facial. "A good, professional facial will have a direct effect on the upper layers of your skin. I would recommend having one a month," advises Harprit. "You will see a difference in the health and appearance of your skin after six months." "For more affordable facials, try colleges or training schools with a beauty department."
Lymphatic drainage massage reduces puffiness around the eyes and neck whilst increasing blood supply that brings fresh vitamins and nutrients to the skin. Massage also loosens up the facial muscles, encouraging smoother muscle tone and elasticity. "Massage is also the kind of thing you can do at home," suggests Harprit. "Just get a base oil and, starting at the neck, massage your face with upward, gentle rolling movements."
Facial exercises improve muscle tone and stimulate circulation. This can be done at home, and there are plenty of books that can help. Pulling weird faces at yourself in a mirror might look funny, but don't worry; smiling and laughing make for an excellent natural workout for your face.
An inexpensive routine is to exfoliate the skin. "A sagging, dull complexion is often caused simply by the build-up of layers of dead skin cells that light cannot bounce off," explains Harprit. "Exfoliation reveals the younger, healthier skin underneath and if you do it before moisturising or working other facial creams into the skin it can aid absorption of the nutrients into the skin."
Words: Fiona Ferguson
Photography: John Stewardson
Make up/hair: Nadine Gibbons
Model: Eve Walter of Adage
