Ultrasonic cleaners, which rely on high-frequency sound waves, have long been used to clean fine jewelry and delicate laboratory instruments. Debris and dirt invisible to the naked eye come out in clumps after 20 minutes in an ultrasound cleaner. This is because ultrasonic vapor bubbles loosen dirt from the tiniest crevices. Applying these principles to skin care, aestheticians discovered that ultrasonic cleaners can also effectively clean and polish delicate, aged, blemished, and sensitive skin.
The Procedure
Ultrasonic facials are sometimes called by the particular ultrasound instrument in use at specific spas, such as the DermaSound or DermaSound Plus facials. Ultrasonic facials typically take 60 minutes although this can vary. Ultrasound can be combined with other therapies or it can follow a specific protocol, for instance a therapy designed for acne or rosacea.
Ultrasonic facials, which are administered in three stages, are gentle and relaxing. Simple and straightforward, ultrasonic cleansers do not involve harsh chemicals, crystals or scrubbing.
While the skin is exfoliated in the first step of ultrasonic cleaning, which is known as the peeling phase, it’s prepared to react with skin masks and moisturizers. The peeling phase is reported to remove from 20 to 50 percent of the skin’s surface layer. The aesthetician applies a thin layer of ultrasound gel over the skin. The technician then uses an ultrasound wand or paddle to apply a mild stream of liquid over the skin. In the process, small vapor bubbles form, react with the skin, and then collapse. Ultrasonic vibrations move water molecules at a high frequency causing changes known as cavitation. Cavitation cleans the skin’s follicles and removes cellular debris.
In the infusion phase of the procedure ultrasonic waves prepare the skin to accept antioxidant nutrients and other treatments. An ultrasonic hand instrument is used to apply treatment products. During specific treatments depending on the skin’s condition, frictional heat is applied. Heat accelerates blood circulation, which enhances nutrient absorption by skin cells. Cellular debris, sebum and toxins are also removed more efficiently when circulation is increased.
In the microcurrent therapy or patting phase of the treatment, the skin is normalized with a very mild electrical current, which restores the natural electrical charge of skin cells. The ultrasound wand or paddle is used to lightly stroke or pat the skin. This promotes healing and cellular regeneration, effectively rejuvenating the skin.
Frequency
Aestheticians recommend that ultrasonic facials be performed once or twice weekly until 6-8 treatments have been completed. Maximum results are noted at this time. Afterwards, follow-up maintenance ultrasonic facials should be scheduled once every 4-8 weeks. Because they don’t irritate the skin, ultrasonic facials can be combined with microdermabrasion or other procedures.
Benefits
- Deep pore cleaning without irritation
- Hydrates the skin
- Gentle but thorough exfoliation
- Reduce hyperpigmentation
- Lighten age spots and acne scars
- Reduce wrinkles
- Relax muscles, improving skin tone
- Stimulates collagen production
- Improves skin tone in rosacea and melasma
- Reduces puffiness and discoloration around the eyes
- Stimulates lymphatic drainage
Precautions
Ultrasonic facials are safe for most people. However, individuals with autoimmune disorders, heart conditions or cancer should check with their doctors before scheduling ultrasonic massages.
Individuals with sensitivity to ultrasound gels or to heat may want to discuss the procedure with an aesthetician before scheduling it.
Elaine Moore - I'm a retired medical technologist and medical writer with more than 30 years experience working in hospital laboratories. Currently, I ...
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