COLLAGEN WAVE FACIAL

THIS is a radio-frequency treatment that stimulates the production of collagen, the protein produced by skin cells that helps maintain skin’s elasticity and plumpness.

Gel containing aloe vera and antiageing ingredients is applied to your face and neck to reduce friction before a metal cylindrical ‘probe’, attached to the radio-frequency machine, is rolled firmly back and forth. This transmits radio-wave energy to the middle and lower layers of the skin to heat the collagen, triggering production.

HOW IT FEELS: The probe feels pleasantly warm, especially around my eyes and forehead, where my skin is thinnest. When rolled across my neck I experience a slightly uncomfortable ‘jolting’ sensation, caused by close contact with nerves there. It is painless, but repetitive. There are none of a conventional facial’s different stages. THE RESULTS: The skin’s collagen is said to tighten immediately for an instant effect. For an hour afterwards my skin is flushed pink, and even though I only had four hours’ sleep the night before, my cheeks look plumper. For the next three days my skin looks more vibrant.

Results are said to become increasingly visible over six months as cells containing the boosted supplies of collagen come closer to the surface. A course of three to ten sessions, one to four weeks apart is recommended for maximum effect. CELEBRITY FANS: Actress Amanda Holden and singers Nicole Scherzinger, and Kylie Minogue. OUCH FACTOR: 4/10. EFFECTIVENESS: 7/10. TIME TAKEN: One hour.

WHERE: London’s High Definition Beauty Boutique, 102 Ladbroke Grove, London W11 1PY; £200 for an hour, £275 for 90 minutes, beautyinhigh

definition.com. Also at selected cosmetic clinics nationwide.