Skin Confidence

By: Katharine Griffiths
Created on 25th March 2010

Alicia felt that she couldn't leave the house without wearing heavy make-up until a course of chemical peels cleared up her skin pigmentation problem

Treatment: Yellow Peel
Name: Alicia Vilman
Age: 33
Occupation: Human Resources Manager

What prompted you to have the treatment?
I have very pigmented skin and friends and colleagues have often commented on it. In recent years I haven't felt confident enough to go out of the house without heavy foundation to give me a more even skin tone.

Someone recently asked me if the pigmentation was the result of pregnancy and I have no children! That is when I decided to do something about it.

Who carried out the procedure and what was their opinion at the
consultation?
I went through many different specialists; from my GP, dermatologists, beauty salons to Chinese Medicine. In the end one of my friends who'd had a pigmentation problem treated many years ago recommended that I call her laser therapist, Lisa Mazura at 61 Harley Street, for advice, which I did.

How was the experience?
It was amazing. I couldn't believe how knowledgeable Lisa is. My consultation took about an hour and Lisa asked me hundreds of questions. After many different options, which I questioned Lisa about, we decided to go for a course of three Yellow Peels, which are based on Milk Peels but are even gentler. I could see results after the first treatment.

How long did it take?
Each treatment took about 30 minutes and of course there was some ‘homework' to do; in between treatments I was given vitamin creams and high factor sun block to wear every day.

Did you have to take any medication after it was done?
No, there was no need for me to take any medication.

What were the immediate results?
Immediately after the treatment there was no reaction whatsoever, but after about eight hours my skin went pink as if sunburned and about two days later my skin flaked. The flaking went on for a further two to three days and my skin felt tighter than usual. After the flaking stopped my skin was immediately smoother and clearer and after the course of three treatments the pigmentation was gone.

Are you happy with the treatment?
I am absolutely delighted with the results. It has also decreased the size of my pores. I stopped using foundation, which I used to use religiously. Now I only use mascara and sun block.