Vacuum your face for a glowing skin

It was reported recently that reality TV star, 32-year-old Kim Kardashian, vacuums her face to get that glow and radiance.

We spoke to experts to find out more about this unique treatment...

What are Vacuum treatments?
This procedure is not really new, says cosmetologist Dr Jamuna Pai. "We have been doing this here for long. In this process, we use a tube or cup in vacuum mode over the face. We move it on the lymphatic nodes, thus draining them. Impurities are drained out and circulation is improved."

So, is this a 'new' discovery or just old wine in new bottle? Dr Apratim Goel, cosmetic dermatologist and laser surgeon, says, "Cupping and vacuum massaging date back to Egyptian times. For ages, vacuum devices and simple mechanical devices that create suction have been used worldwide for treating acne, double chin, wrinkles and saggy skin."

Boosts circulation
A healthy skin depends on proper blood circulation. Says Dr Goel, "Circulation not only nourishes the skin by improving oxygen supply, it also helps remove metabolic waste products, breaks up fat adhesions (cellulite), opens blocked lymphatics and plumps up under-developed or hollow parts of the body.

Also, this stimulates fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen), which firm the skin. It is also known to stop hair loss and stimulate hair growth. However, the reverse treatment, high-pressure jet spray, is also in vogue and is a buzzword in the cosmetic industry today."

Cuts cellulite
Cellulite, which is pocketed fat, can be effectively broken down with vacuum pressure. It has been a standard treatment for cellulite reduction and firming up the muscles, says Dr Goel. "It increases blood supply, removes toxins and boosts immunity. Vacuuming is also used in raising blisters for vitiligo surgery. The process is called blister grafting,"
she adds.

Rejuvenates skin
"Microdermabrasion, commonly known as skin polishing, is the method of vacuuming as well as using aluminium oxide crystals on the face, to abrade the top layer of the skin. Once the dead layer is removed and active ingredients are applied on the skin, it feels fresh and rejuvenated instantly," explains Dr Goel.

Not for blackhead removal
Dr Pai says, "I don't think vacuuming should be used for blackhead removal. Sometimes, they run deep and if not properly removed, form again and may lead to acne. Finer vacuum may be used in some cases."

Body treatments
Whole body-vacuuming treatments are also common abroad. "Larger vacuum cups are used for the lymphatic drainage of the body," Dr Pai explains.

The Method
Mechanical devices like cups, rollers and suction machines are used. Microdermabrasion and suction devices are commonly used by aestheticians for treatments on the face..

Side effects?
The procedure has side effects, say experts. Firstly, the pressure for the vacuum should be controlled and monitored according to skin type, texture and condition. If used with too much pressure for too long, it can cause bruising, tenderness and even haematoma (swelling) and haemorrhage. Experts caution that frequent use can cause skin laxity by damaging the underlying elastic fibres and collagen.

Benefits of vacuuming
Dermatologists and cosmetologists say that vacuuming is beneficial to skin:
- It improves the circulation
- Drains the lymphatic nodes Especially helps in treatments of acne Comodeone extraction
- Skin rejuvenation
- Cellulite reduction


thanks:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/