MICROCURRENT Microcurrent works in harmony with the natural bio-electrical impulses in our own body. A Micro current facial involves delivery of safe, painless, low-level electrical impulses to strategic locations under the skin to rehabilitate, firm and tone the facial muscles. Micro current therapy is an electrical treatment with an immediate skin toning and firming effect. CONTRA- INDICATION FOR MICROCURRENT TREATMENT Recent operation with general anaesthetic Anti- depressant (+ 2 more treatments) Heart conditions! Collagen injections = avoid area for 6-8 weeks Botox injections = avoid area totally (micro current treatment will stimulate the area) Pregnancy! Epilepsy! Metal implants: head or neck area! Diabetes Smokers Chemotherapy / radiology (clear of cancer) Acne medication ( Retin A or Ro-Accuntaine)(thinning of the skin) (avoid treatment for 1 year) Seizures REASON FOR USING MICROCURRENT Tightens and softens lines/improve contour of the face Very relaxing treatment / very little sensation felt Non -invasive ( safer and less intrusive than face lifting surgery) Preventative : delays the aging process ( epidermis) Stops further damage by stimulating the existing collagen ( in the dermis) Corrective: enhances natural features, encourages collagen production to plump out the tissue To reduce puffiness (e. g eye area) To soften scar tissue To improve muscle condition and function To maintain youthful appearance To improve the colour and texture of the skin/circulation To restore a radiant complexion Microcurrent Timings: Facial – 60 minutes: 2 – 3 times a week. Course recommended: 12 sessions. Maintenance: 1-2 treatment per month. Body – 30 minutes: 2 – 3 times a week. Course recommended: 10 sessions. EFFECTS / BENEFITS OF MICROCURRENT Improves / lifts (facial and neck muscle tone) (Sagging muscles) Lifts jowls and eyebrows Rejuvenates the skin Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines Improves facial circulation Increases lymphatic drainage Increases product penetration Tightens and reduces open pores Improves colour and texture of the skin Gives a youthful appearance to the skin Re-hydrates skin Reduces oedema- puffiness under the eyes / dark circles under the eyes Improves hormonal balance which aids in the successful treatment of acne. Skin rejuvenation through an improved muscle and skin tone – lines and slack facial contours will appear less obvious. Frown lines resulting from tense muscles are softened. Open pores of greasy skin type tightened. Cells degenerate with ageing, resulting in reduced nutrients and oxygen. Affects cellular metabolism. Electrical current stimulates cell metabolism. Increase permeability of cell membranes Thereby improving movement of material in and out of the cells. Current directly stimulates muscle fibres. Low intensity does not cause visible contraction as seen in faradic treatment. CONTRA – INDICATIONS FOR MICROCURRENT TREATMENT Skin disorders or diseases (These could be aggravated by the treatment or cross-infection could occur). Electrical implants, e.g. pacemakers. (Micro current could cause interference with other electrical sources). Metal plates and pins. (These will conduct the current and cause discomfort). Severe varicose veins (Accelerating blood flow). Excessive dental framework (These conduct minute current transfer to the tooth nerve). Loss of tactile sensation (You would not be able to monitor intensity of contractions). Clients who suffer from migraines should not be treated around the eye or forehead area. PROCEDURE FOR FACIAL MICROCURRENT TREATMENT: Position the machine on the stable base and check that the plugs, leads are secure. Select the appropriate controls. Check that the intensity is at zero. Select the electrodes, prepare them as instructed in the manual and secure them into the machine (use organic cotton buds-moisture them) Microcurrent is Interruptive direct current (current moves from one electro (+) to the other(-) Apply the conductive gel to the client treated skin surface. Use 3 types of techniques: glide (to smooth fine lines); grab and hold technique ( for sagging muscles and for lifting effect); slide technique (stretching and relaxing the muscle, personal lines) Always move black electrodes towards red electrodes After treatment return all setting to zero. Switch of the machine. Remove excess conductive gel from client skin surface. Clean and tone the clients skin Apply appropriate mask or serum/concentrate, according to the client treatment Effects: Firms face and neck muscles. Helps soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles AFTERCARE/HOMECARE (MICROCURRENT) Facial cosmetic creams and make-up not to be applied directly after treatment. Skin needs to ‘breathe’. Negative effects on skin should be discussed i.e. alcohol, smoking, ultraviolet radiation. Drinking natural, uncarbonated water after treatment to remove toxins. Benefits of healthy diet. Simple facial exercises should be recommended. CONTRA-ACTIONS (MICROCURRENT) Muscle fatigue caused by incorrect choice of current intensity, frequency and wave form. If a contra-action occurs, discontinue treatment and provide appropriate action and advice. PREPARATION OF THE CLIENT FOR MICROCURRENT TREATMENT Place the client in a well supported and comfortable position Check that all jewellery/ contact lenses, hearing aid have been removed Check for contraindication again Explain the treatments to the client, tell what to expect Cleanse and tone the skin Moisten the skin thoroughly with recommended Microcurrent product