tips + tricks: necks big thing
POSTED 08.02.2010 @ 08:00
Sagging neck skin is one of the most visible signs of ageing. Here, we trial four of the latest high-tech, gravity-defying treatments.
Thermage Nxt, $3000, The Clinic, 02 9386 1533, theclinic.net.au
What is it? The latest Thermage technology uses a single session of radiofrequency to tighten and contour the appearance of skin. Thermage promises to safely deliver “volumetric heating” to deep, collagen-rich layers of the skin, which then turns on the body’s natural skin renewal process and helps to form new collagen.
Treatments: This is a time-efficient one-off treatment, taking about 20 minutes to one hour, depending on the size of the area concerned. The results last between 18 months and four years.
Our tester says: “The fact this works with a single non-invasive treatment is a real plus. The skin on my neck felt tighter immediately and the tone and texture continued to improve.”
Titan Skin Tightening, $2400, Infinity Skin Clinic, 02 9904 3600, infinityskin.com.au
What is it? The Titan laser creates an even distribution of light energy to heat the deep dermis – the inner layers of the skin – with the aim of stimulating the production of collagen.
Treatments: Three sessions over three months will produce results lasting up to a year afterwards.
Our tester says: “My neck was gridded with a marker pen and then the therapist got to work covering all the sections. There is a sensation of heat with each pulse and there was a bit of redness after. But now, one month later, my neck skin has definitely firmed.”
Accent Your Face, $1300, Face Body & Soul, 1800 062 181, facebodysoul.com.au
What is it: Dual-layer radiofrequency thermotherapy treats the appearance of wrinkles and stimulates collagen production to help tighten loose skin.
Treatments: Six one-hour treatments (one every two weeks), with top-ups recommended every six months.
Our tester says: “An oil was applied to my neck and then the device was massaged over the skin from my jawline to my collarbone, with a particular focus on the sagging skin around my chin. I noticed subtle results after four treatments and my neck felt tighter.”
Re-Firme Skin Tightening, $1296, Facial Aesthetics Medi-Spa, 02 9264 4424, facialmedispa.com.au
What is it: Re-Firme gives skin a more toned and lifted appearance. Using infra-red and bipolar radiofrequency to heat connective tissue fibres, it helps stimulate the skin to produce more collagen fibres.
Treatments: Three 60-minute sessions over a three-month period. Results last three to six months.
Our tester says: “The machine felt warm and almost like a rubber band being flicked against my neck, but was relatively painless. I was told to take vitamin C tablets during the course of the treatment to help speed up collagen restoration. It’s subtle, but my skin appears plumper.”
TIP: If high-tech is not your thing, you could try Rénergie Lift Volumetry, $175, by Lancôme, 02 9931 8888, which claims to help lift the appearance of sagging neck skin.