Skincare

Skincare, at BrightNewMe

I am passionate about helping my patients improve the quality of their skin, whatever their stage in life, and whatever issues they have with their skin.  In my opinion, undertaking treatments and procedures to enhance and rejuvenate without first improving the underlying quality of the skin is like trying to build a house without solid foundations. At BrightNewMe we look to guide patients through their options, with a view to helping them achieve radiant, healthy-looking skin.

Skin consultations

The first stage of improving skin health entails attending a detailed skin consultation to assess your medical history and existing skincare regime. This is followed by a thorough examination of your skin, including photographic assessment.  I discuss my assessment and findings with you and offer you suggestions and recommendations to consider.  This may involve procedures to address specific issues (such as skin lesions, or thread veins), or a course of HydraFacial treatments to give the skin an immediate boost.

In addition, and where appropriate, my recommendations may include the use of prescription-strength skincare products.  I may devise a skincare regime, bespoke for your own needs, whilst ensuring that my recommendations take into account the financial and time commitment you are able to make.

Prescription based skincare ranges – Obagi® and ZO®

I firmly believe that prescription skincare is THE most effective way to rejuvenate all skin types. At BrightNewMe I recommend and prescribe products from both Obagi® and ZO® ranges (Obagi was the first prescription-based range of skincare products introduced into the UK, with ZO being the next stage in skincare science, both pioneered by the renowned Dr. Zein Obagi).

Skincare products bought ‘over-the-counter’, on the high street or online (even very expensive ‘cosmeceuticals’), are all classified as ‘cosmetics’ along with, for example, nail varnish and make-up. Such items are not permitted to alter the anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of the skin. They can legally contain only a very limited concentration of active ingredients and have no effect on the skin cells below the epidermis (the top layer of the skin, which includes dead skin cells). In contrast, medically prescribed products contain much greater concentrations of active ingredients. This enables them to penetrate below the epidermis and regulate the skin at a much deeper cellular level. It is this superior penetration, combined with medical strength active ingredients, that leads to effective results.

Skin concerns

There is a wide range of conditions which can be dramatically improved by the use of a bespoke regime of medical-grade products:

• Freckles, dark patches and pigmentation
• Sun damage, sun spots/ age spots
• Acne, blemishes and large pores
• Rosacea/redness
• Mild scarring
• Facial fine lines and wrinkles
• Dull texture or tone

Some conditions require specific physical treatment, such as skin lesions (which I treat with cryotherapy), or thread veins (which I treat with thermo-coagulation). We also offer skin microneedling (for fine lines, pigmentation and scarring), Ultherapy (which tightens the skin) and Volite injections (for skin quality).

Costs

I offer free initial consultations to outline potential treatment options. We often ask for photographs in advance so that we can advise of suitability for treatment.

Subsequent skincare consultations with myself are chargeable, at £75 for a 15- 20 minute consultation.

Product costs

I recommend a wide range of products, which vary in price considerably, from an exfoliating paste at £15 to a serum at £196. For most patients on a whole regime (wash, exfoliator, toner, serums and sun screen) the cost of products is approximately £100 per month.

Since the products are all registered as medicines they are only available to purchase following consultation with me. Our products come directly from approved/licensed pharmacies and are charged at their recommended retail prices.  We do not seek to compete with internet retailers, and caution patients with regards to buying prescriptions on the internet where fake and counterfeit products are commonplace. If you would like to know the cost of any particular Obagi® and ZO® product please do not hesitate to phone or email us.

Many patients combine their prescription skin care with a course of  Dermalux LED light therapy, the cost of which is £40 for one 30 minute session, £200 for six or £360 for 12. This will not only reduce any initial downtime (redness) but also provide further antiageing/ general skin benefits.

Further information

As existing patients are aware, I’m very keen on patient education. I encourage all to read my various skincare information pages, covering a wide range of subjects such as dealing with acne, rosacea, the dangers of over-moisturising, and the need to use sun protection at all times.

Patient experience

Although we have a dedicated page for general client testimonials, below you will see a selection of comments from patients whose skin I have treated. Click on the extract to see the comments in full.