PART 1: Microdermabrasion @ SK:N Clinic

My skin took a turn for the worse when I hit 25. I've still not pinpointed exactly what caused the almost daily breakouts that I've recently experienced. I believe it to be a combination of too much sugar, dairy and a hefty does of emotional STRESS.

For someone who survived the whole of my teenage years with just the odd hormonal spot once a month this experience has actually been pretty distressing. I hate feeling out of control. but that's exactly what I've felt. I have not been in control of how my skin looks. And life is challenging enough at age 25 without this kind of battle.

My skin is now mostly clear but I have melasma (pigmentation) on my left temple (this deserves a whole post of it's own so watch this space). Some open pores. And a few red spots under the skin.

I have by no means had acne. Not even close. My grasp of this fact has made me ooze empathy towards those who have suffered with acne - my heart goes out to you ♥

Nonetheless, having managed to (mostly) clear my skin by trialing a long list of recommendations (these also deserve a whole post of their own!) I decided to treat myself to micro-dermabrasion. My best friend suffered badly with her skin all her life and has benefited massively from this treatment.

I took advantage of free consultations at three places in Manchester and chose SK:N at Albert Square. Why did I choose SK:N?

♥ Their pricing was the most competitive: three sessions for £99.

♥ They have an active Facebook page which has zero negativity and an awful lot of positivity about their treatments and therapists. Discounts are posted here.

♥ They send out text, phone and email appointment reminders - my life is chaotic so I value this service.

♥ They open on Sundays.

♥ Their clinic is a stone's throw from a street I park on for free on Sundays. I was reluctant to walk any further than this (amongst the general public!) for fear of emulating Samantha.

I had my first session yesterday. It felt like being scratched, lots of times, for 15 minutes. An annoying sensation, sort of painful, but not really. Although I did find my body tensing up throughout. Girls, this is not like a relaxing facial! My skin was slightly red for almost an hour afterwards so yes, I did feel a little sheepish walking back to my car. Although, I'm sure nobody noticed.

Today my skin feels a lot smoother. i can't say i notice any difference apart from that. results are not supposed to be seen until 3 or 4 sessions down the line. i have my next treatment in less than two weeks.

I'll be talking about my progress after I've completed a number of sessions so if micro-dermabrasion is something that interests you be sure to check back. Feel free to email me if you have any questions.

♥