Thermage FLX at IDS

Have long heard of Thermage way before an oasis of non-invasive skin tightening treatments sprouted in the market. Hollywood celebrities and many famous fashion influencers swear by its visible results. However, some reviews that pointed to discomfort during the treatment just deterred me from considering it until I read more and understand that the new Thermage FLX is much more comfortable, with shorter treatment time due to its larger device tips.

In anticipation for my treatment, I researched more to understand what exactly is Thermage and what I should expect as I have a low tolerance for pain but yet, I wish to have tighter, younger looking skin.

So what exactly is Thermage? In short, a non-invasive radio-frequency (RF) therapy that can help smoothen, tighten and contour skin for an overall younger-looking appearance, as quoted on thermange website. Only 1 treatment that lasts for about 1 year with no downtime. I thought for 1 year of tighter skin, a can bear with a little discomfort, why not?

On the day of treatment, Dr examined my face and confirmed that Thermage would be the right treatment suited for my condition. Her analogy of Thermage was interesting and apt to what was described - an ironing machine for fine lines and wrinkles. She recommended 600 reps with more  concentration on my forehead and laugh lines and assured me that the treatment would be much more comfortable after the application of numbing cream.

Shortly after, I was led to a treatment room for application numbing cream. For minimal discomfort, it is recommended that numbing cream be left on to absorb for an hour. 

After application of the numbing cream

Thermage template applied as a guide for the stamping device

As soon as the numbing cream began to work, I was led into the Thermage treatment room where they inked a template onto my face as a guide for the targeted treatment points. As Doctor came into the room, she assured me again that it will be bearable and mostly comfortable treatment.  After applying a layer of cooling gel on my face, she adjusted the level to the lowest so that I could gauge how it feels. As we went along, she adjusted the levels to more optimum levels to treat areas of concern.

at the first few trial shots, I was worried it would be painful but it was quite comfortable

570/600 shots, at this point it was comfortable enough for me to take this shot

The 600 shots took about 45 minutes with some short pauses as Doctor adjusted the intensity level for different areas. In all, I would say that the treatment was mostly comfortable and pain-free except the areas near the corner of my mouth. I would rate the pain level overall as 3/10 and 7/10 around the mouth. 

Post treatment, there were no redness or any sensitivities and I could leave the clinic almost immediately. I even went shopping around orchard with my hubby!

Right after treatment with no visible redness or side effects

As advised by Doctor, my natural collagen will begin to regenerate in the coming months and I should see result as soon as 4 weeks' time. Now at the time of writing this, I am into a week after treatment and I already feel my skin surface is a lot smoother with a slight lift at the corner of my lips. I cannot wait to see a tightened, younger looking me in the next few months. If I were to time the full effects, they will reach optimal results around Christmas till Chinese New Year. How awesome to bring my best face forward then! 

If you like to know more about Thermage, you can read more about it here. I get all my information about Thermage there. I recommend that you speak to your doctor before deciding if Thermage is best for you but when I was deciding on the treatment, I spoke to my facial consultant in IDS Aesthetics before hoping on this bandwagon.

3rd Visit: Pico Sure Laser

 Just one week before Chinese New Year, I managed to get a slot for Pico Sure laser recommended by IDS for my sunspots and also for tightening my pores.

Preparation Room for numbing cream

application of numbing cream

After consultation, I was led into a preparation room for application of numbing cream. About 20 mins later, I was led into the laser room to start my treatment.

Immediately after I laid down, they could sense that I was very nervous and reassured me that I would not feel too uncomfortable.

True enough, the Pico Laser was almost painless through her gentle hand motions. Except for sensitive areas like my cheekbones, I would say the pain level is at most 2/10. Considering that I have a low threshold for pain, this treatment could be 0 pain for many. The sensation is very much like rubber tapping on your face in hyper fast motions, with higher concentrations on target areas.

The entire process took less than 20 mins and I had to laugh at myself for being nervous for nothing!

A cooling serum was applied to soothe redness and small bumps from my sensitive skin. I was then led back to the preparation area for the soothing light mask.

15 mins later, there was much less redness and I was ready to go. Consultant Cassandra told me it might take 1 to 2 days for any sensitivities to clear and it took mine about 2 to 3 days. 

I had a few small bumps around the target areas in the cheeks and it faded after 3 days.

A week later, I could notice a smoother touch and appearance on my cheeks and I noticed that my makeup glided on nicely compared to before. 

For those looking for a quick treatment with little to no down time, this is the go-to laser!

Thankful to get the opportunity to review this treatment and I am convinced to sign a full course with IDS.

If you are keen to find out more, you can visit www.idsclinic.com if you wish to know more about your skin!

During the Laser Treatment

Right after the laser

Skin soothing light mask

One week later and without makeup

2nd Visit: Facial with IDS Aesthetic

Visited IDS Orchard earlier this week for my 1st Facial treatment. After all the safety check-in procedure, I was greeted by their friendly Consultant who recommended Cryo Therapeutics Treatment (CTT), noting that my skin was looking dull (probably after several late night this festive season).

The Treatment Room

The treatment room was a nice serene white theme, spotlessly cleaned for hygiene and a comfortable experience. Therapist Jessmine was very soft spoken and at the same time very friendly and approachable in answering my questions.

The procedure for the facial:

• Double Cleansing
• HydroD (water dermabrasion including use of multi minerals solution)
• Serum infusions (vitamins & brighteners)
• CryoProbe
• Seaweed Mask 
• Moisturizer
• Sunscreen

Just before starting

As IDS skincare products are used in the facial, I could immediately recognize the fruity scent of the Refreshing Cleanser. Following that, the gentle Facial Scrub was applied to remove surface impurities.

First step: Refreshing Cleanser

After Scrub, there's an immediate glow already

In the next step, I experienced an interesting vacuum sensation as the HydroD water dermabrasion machine was used. It was comfortable and I like the feeling that excess dirt is sucked out from my skin!

Next was my ultimate fear - extraction. Jessmine was so quick and gentle, it was over in a jiffy. I was not as uncomfortable as I thought it would be.

Next vitamin and brightening serum were delivered into my skin through iontophoresis, followed by Cyrotherapy technology (CryoProbe) to soothe and energize my skin.

Because my skin is sensitive and turn red occasionally, a seaweed mask was used instead of the usual sheet mask. I like the scent of seaweed that immediately felt soothing and comfortable.

I must say this facial session had been the most comfortable one I have ever experienced.  I also like that the duration is just nice for a lunch time quick fix!

You can visit idsskincare.com for more about their products or www.idsclinic.com if you wish to know more about your skin!

1st Visit : Skin Transformation Journey with IDS Skincare

2020 has been a year of adjustments. The months of confinement during circuit breaker (lockdown) saw me slacking in my skin care. As I stayed at home, I did not pay much attention to my skin. It became habitual that it continued into Phase 2. Adding to the damage, I went on extended runs in the weekends, adding new sun spots to my face.
As we march into 2021, I thought it would be only kind to myself to start afresh with a proper skin care regime. Afterall, there's this saying in Chinese that there are no ugly women in the world, only lazy ones.

Timely enough, I was invited to IDS two weeks ago for a consultation with Doctor Michelle Wong. My skin concerns are sun spots and uneven skin tone. She was very personable and patient in sharing her knowledge about freckles and was very skillful in identifying areas of concern. She recommended a complete range of 9 products. Skin Consultant, Cassandra explained the usage in detail including a written guide so that I would not skip a step!

Refreshing Cleanser, Refreshing Toner, Pore Formula, C-Plus, Oil-free Moisturizer, 

Rejuvenating Complex, Facial Scrub, Tinted Sunblock, Diamond-Dust Perfector 

So, this is my Day Regime. I take 5 steps for work-from-home days and 7 steps on days when I go out!

1st Step: Refreshing Cleanser

One of my faves from the whole range is this refreshing cleanser that has a light fruity scent and it strips off makeup gently without stripping off my skin's natural protective layer. I have dry and slightly sensitive skin and this worked perfectly for me.

2nd Step: Refreshing Toner

As a double cleanser, this toner helped to give a final clean to my skin and also provided great care for my pores. 

3rd Step: Pore Formula

With this I can reduce the agony of blackhead squeezing during facials as it rapidly clears out blackheads, whiteheads and blemishes.Though I do not exactly like the smell of the product, but trading it with good results is pretty worth it.

4th Step: C Plus

An award winning light anti-oxidant serum, this is formulated with potent form of Vitamin C and active ingredients to increase collagen production. Over two weeks, I can see my skin tone evening out from the forehead to my cheeks. I hope that with longer usage, i will see less fine lines and wrinkles!

5th Step: Oil-free Moisturizer

My day moisturizer, this non-greasy moisturizer did help control acne especially during the week leading to my period, I did not have any acne this month! I like that it is light enough to use during the day, with minimized shine. It is packed with a synergistic combination of Vitamin C and E to give a balanced complexion, and a gentle Vitamin A that aids in clearing up complexion. This is also an award winner!

6th Step: Tinted Sunblock

A must-do step for everyone, this matte SPF50 sunblock is packed with anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory action.

7th Step: Diamond-Dust Perfector

The only make-up product in the entire skincare series, this to me is the star product that helps me face the world, literally! It instantly minimizes pores and blemishes and smooths out appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Most make up base clogs pores and results in acne. But this product is easy to remove and did not clog my pores since I started using it these 2 weeks.

Spot the difference! (left side is with Diamond Dust)

For my evening regime, I add in the Facial Scrub on alternate days and simply exchange the Oil-Free Day Moisturizer (5th Step) for the Rejuvenating Complex.

1st Step: Refreshing Cleanser

2nd Step: Refreshing Toner

3rd Step: Pore Formula

4th Step: C Plus

5th Step: Rejuvenating Complex

As I am already into my 40s, a more potent anti-aging cream can dramatically reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The RC contains unique ingredients that boost collagen and elastin production immediately improving skin texture. It is packed with IDS' patented NUELASTIN formulation and delivery system so that the skin effectively absorbs the active ingredients. I like that it is not too heavy for an anti-aging cream.

Taking good care of our skin is a lifetime commitment and requires consistency and discipline.

For just following the steps diligently the past two weeks, I can already see a slight improvement in the brightening of my skin tone. I am very grateful to be part of this transformation journey and I am looking to putting my 'best face forward' this coming Chinese New Year!

Spot the difference! (a brightened skin tone and slightly lighter sunspots)

You can visit www.idsskincare.com for more about their products or www.idsclinic.com if you wish to know more about your skin!