Hot Stuff

One of my favourite things about a facial is experiencing the different sensations as the treatment progresses – warmth, cool, rough and fresh. Each one signals a different stage, while I lie blissfully unaware of the work the therapist is undertaking to make my skin glow.

What I love about Estee Lauder’s Idealist Dual-Action Refinishing Treatment (NZ $118) is the warmth at first touch and then the gentle exfoliation. It feels just like a spa treatment (except I’m standing up to apply it!).

It has a ‘unique thermal technology’ that is activated with water, so you feel it on your fingers first before you massage it on your face. The heat opens pores to let Glucosamine and Salicylic Acid penetrate and purify. Then, as you rub in light circular motions the Microsphere Refinishing System remove dead skin cells clogging up the surface. The combination has the effect of a mild micro-dermabrasion and glycolic acid  peel treatment – without the salon heavy side effects (which for some can mean pink, stingy skin).

This product is targeted for those with large pores who want to minimise them but it would also be good for those who want a good weekly exfoliation product. It works in tandem with the Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher – a toner that finishes the job by clarifying pores and sweeping away any final skin cell remnants. (I used it without the toner and it still worked a treat).

Despite a heavy handed approach to skin, it felt surprisingly soothing. My skin can err on the side of sensitive and there was no irritation whatsoever. A day later I was pleasantly surprised to see very slight flaking – a sign that the glycolic acid is doing it’s cell cleansing trick (and easily removed with toner).

If you’re cutting back on treatments, this is a product worth purchasing instead. Those with pore concerns, follow it with the suggested toner for the full effect.

Tamsin xo