Microdermabrasion and Vitamin C Peel Review at Destination Skin, Knightsbridge

Microdermabrasion is something I’ve wanted to get for a long time. I don’t particularly have bad skin, I don’t have acne or have heavy lines. For me it was more about to producing the best possible skin. I wanted that glow, to rejuvenate my skin and simply keep it looking healthy rather than repairing damage. So finally I decided to get it done, along with a complimenting Vitamin C peel, so I have documented the whole process so you know exactly what it is all about, should you think it is something right for you.

Destination Skin kindly invited me down to their Knightsbridge clinic to try out a skin treatment. Now I’m a bit of a researcher so I already had in my mind that Microdermabrasion was the treatment for me, but of course I went down for a consultation so the clinician could look and test my skin to see what would work best.

The Consultation

I expected this to be a 15 minute chit chat but oh no. I was in there for a good hour and 15 minutes. Debbie asked about my skincare regime, what type of products I used and if I’d had any other treatments before. She then cleansed my face so she could see it in its natural state and examine it. She also used a machine that analysed my face and showed up skin damage and sun spots which was pretty scary actually. We then discussed my goals and what I wanted to get out of it, before she suggested Microdermabrasion with a Vitamin C peel. 

The whole consultation process was so informative. No question was too silly and I felt really comfortable as I was a little worried that being a bit of a basic beauty woman I’d get frowned upon. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. The whole consultation process was actually really good and I left super excited for my first treatment.

What exactly is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a treatment where tiny crystals are sprayed onto the skin and buffed into it using a specialist tool, that is almost like a very very gentle (and safe) sander, removing the top layer of skin. By removing the top layer of skin, the layer underneath will be new, smooth and soft.

Is Microdermabrasion for me?

Looking at the before and after photos, I felt a little guilty as I didn’t have problematic skin or anything to really complain about. But if you think about it, we are told to use anti-ageing products from a young age to prevent wrinkles and fine lines, so this is exactly the same.  As the top layer of skin is buffed off, it’s great for removing clogged skin, dry skin, and early signs of wrinkles and fine lines. Of course if you have acne or scarring, it’s even better is it helps to diminish the appearance.

But also did you know that removing dead skin means that your serums and creams are 50% more likely to penetrate the skin. So if you have expensive at home products, it might be worth getting rid of your dead skin first.

What is a vitamin C peel?

The Vitamin C peel is an entry level skin peel for the newbie peelers like me. As the name suggests, it contains Vitamin C, which helps to smooth, hydrate and brighten skin. It also helps to reduce pores. 

The clinic: Destination Skin, Knightsbridge

Destination Skin are the UK’s no 1 laser hair removal and skin specialists and have 16 locations all across England. So not just for my London readers this time!  I chose the Knightsbridge location, as it is not only closer to my flat, but also if one area of London is going to know skin treatments, then it’s going to be in Knightsbridge! With those clientele around, they have to be good!

I have to admit though, I thought I was going to be really intimidated. When I think of Knightsbridge I think of Harrods, and the last time I went to Harrods I hated the whole experience. I wanted to treat myself and buy a pair of designer heels. The sales assistance couldn’t have looked me up and down more harshly and looked at me like I didn’t belong there. The whole thing was really awkward and I left. So I was a little worried I was going to be judged again. But again, I was wrong. The atmosphere is so welcoming and friendly. Completely not stuffy and only for rich people. Also what I really loved was that whilst I was given samples of some products, I wasn’t once asked if I’d like to buy them. I love that it isn’t pushy sales and ad ons.

The procedure

I went to one of their treatment rooms and my clinician Roma, cleansed my face to make sure there wasn’t any leftover makeup or grime. She then prepped my skin, again making sure it was thoroughly clean. Then after that it was time for the Vitamin C peel.

Little eye stickers were popped over my eyes and she covered my lips in jelly to protect them. Then she started the first layer of the peel. In total I had two layers all over and 3 on my forehead as she said my skin was thicker and it would benefit from an extra layer. I have this pesky wrinkle of my forehead that drives me nuts so by all means dose me up!

It didn’t hurt at all. There was the slightest bit of tingling, and the smell wasn’t the best, but it was pretty relaxing to be honest. After about 20 minutes it was time to come off, and my skin cleansed again to get any residue off. 

Before I could feel anything, it was time for the microdermabrasion. Wearing the eye covers I couldn’t see anything, but I could hear this one. It’s like a whirring sound. I described it afterward as like hearing a mini power tool!

I actually really enjoyed the microdermabrasion, the feeling is really therapeutic, almost like a mini massage for the face. The funny thing was, that that the machine sucks up the dead skin that comes off, but of course some escapes, and I could feel it on my neck! Damn there was a lot. I think I need to start exfoliating more!

All in all, the entire start to finish, including prep took an hour. But that hour was all worth it as my skin felt amazing.

The results.

Honestly, my skin looked so healthy and glowing afterwards. I couldn’t stop touching my face and it was so soft and smooth. It was (and is) the best its felt and looked in gosh, I don’t even know- it’s that long!

Whilst from the photos it’s quite hard to see results as the lighting wasn’t amazing, and it is always hard to pick up detail on camera, but I can honestly say my skin feels and look fantastic. It feels hydrated, the rough texture around my nose and chin is gone, and it feels much more plump now. 

I'm very happy, and so much so, I'm going back for round 2 in a few weeks.

Also check out my video on my treatment, as you can actually see how it is done:

Beauty, beauty treatment, destination skin, London, microdermabrasion, skin peel, vitamic c peel