High-tech facials: Million Dollar Facial

Continuing our foray into some of the industry’s most high-tech facials, deputy editor Kezia Parkins tries Jenna Unwin’s Million Dollar Facial.

THE LOWDOWN:

The Million Dollar Facial System is the brainchild of Liverpool-based technician and clinic owner Jenna Unwin. The system has 11 protocols but I was lucky enough to receive the top treatment offering – the Million Dollar Facial. The 60-minute, 10-step treatment uses a combination of dermaplaning, micro-needling and lymphatic drainage alongside scientifically formulated professional products.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Jenna and her lead trainer Annmarie Hughes came all the way down to London’s Harley Street to see me.

After filling out a gorgeously branded consultation form, Annmarie performed a precleanse to remove any toxification or makeup, while massaging my face and analysing my skin to determine which treatment and products would be best for me.

I was pleased to be suitable for the Million Dollar Facial, after discussing my skin concerns and going over my consultation questions. At 32, my skin is in quite good shape but, like many people with darker skin, I have a bit of hyperpigmentation on my cheeks (which is improving) and worry about unevenness. I also feel like my skin is getting duller as we come into winter and am missing that summer glow.

Annmarie then started dermaplaning to remove anywhere between three to four weeks of dead skin cells, meaning that four weeks would be needed between the next session, as 28 days is the skin’s natural healing cycle. By also removing vellus hair, this step really helped to brighten my skin.

Jenna explained how important it is at this point to maintain the right pressure and angle to ensure that only dead skin is removed and not the healthy skin underneath which would cause dryness. The branded cotton pads that my peach fuzz was wiped onto were a great touch and something that clients love to share on social media.

We then went into the lymphatic drainage massage to help flush out any toxins. Stagnant lymph fluid can cause many problems for the skin including dullness. This part helped release some of the tension and stress I often hold in my face. Then Annmarie went in with the MDF globes – gorgeous ice-cold glass orbs filled with a gold liquid that she glided across my face. The cooling effect reduced any puffiness and calmed my skin after the dermaplaning – this part felt incredible.

Within the MDF range, there is an option of three ampules to choose from – radiate (glow and pigmentation), eliminate (problematic skin) and rejuvenate (anti-ageing). There is a peel for each of these options also.

Annmarie decided that the rejuvenate ampule would work best for my skin. It includes tyrosine inhibitors, phytostimulants, and antioxidants and is a low molecular weight, which makes it ideal for the micro-needling step, and helps hydrate and plump the skin.

The MDF utilises a 0.5 micro-needle depth, which is excellent for skin rejuvenation, evening tone and texture with no downtime. Microscopic punctures were lightly and painlessly created over my skin, aiding absorption by up to 80% and stimulating collagen and fibroblast activity. Annmarie explained that, while I would see a change instantly, the results will be ongoing, with the most benefits from the treatment being seen in around six weeks. These could last between six to 12 months, depending on how fast my collagen depletes.

A mask was then applied to soothe and hydrate the skin after the micro-needling, followed by a slathering of SPF.

THE VERDICT:

I really did feel a million dollars after this treatment and loved the glow my skin had and how beautiful my makeup glided on in the weeks after.

BUSINESS BENEFITS:

With so many treatment protocols to offer, there is something within the Million Dollar Facial system for every client. Thanks to the instant results of many of the treatment steps, this is a great option for clients who want to pep up their skin before a big event, but also ideal for those who want long-term benefits of increased cell turnover.

Jenna charges £125 for this treatment. milliondollarfacial.com