AHA, a natural fruit acid, can strip away the years from your face, writes Melanie Morris
Translation time: AHA, or alpha hydroxy acid, a natural fruit acid, is also called glycolic acid. When blended in the right way, it can diminish fine lines, improve texture, restore luminosity, increase elasticity and can be effective on acne and rosacea. The trick is to use glycolic products that have not been neutralised (as a lot of mass-market AHA products are) and have a low pH balance.
The master: The secret of effective glycolics lies with Dr Nicholas Daniello, an American plastic surgeon who advocates that the knives don't necessarily have to come out. His products are available after consultation through a network of Irish beauty salons.
The deal: The Daniello system is easy to follow, but involves commitment. By combining a very simple home regime with regular salon treatments, results should become apparent within three weeks.
The bottom line: The results won't change your looks, or remove layers of skin like a laser peel will, but it will address dull complexions and dead cells, improving skin condition far more effectively than other non-invasive methods.
The products: A cleansing wash, day cream, SPF product, eye cream and Daniello's jewel - the Active Night Complex. It tingles upon application because it's making those dead cells move to the surface.
The treatments: A combination of glycolic peels and microdermabrasion. The peels are not like the usual face mask, but a small, wet towelette impregnated with the acid. This is applied to the face and neck and left on for a maximum of five minutes. Microdermabrasion takes longer - but not much - and uses charged crystals to blast away dead cells. There are also masks to use in the salon and at home
The verdict: Having tried the system for a month, it's simple to follow. The salon treatments are frequent, but after four to six weeks, become monthly. This is an intelligent approach to skincare and involves re-education. It is a good regime to implement religiously on a quarterly basis, in between flirting with other products.
The contacts: To find out more about Dr Daniello salons, or to book a consultation, contact Ann McDevitt on 01-6777962.