What is it?
A facial using intense diamond peel (IDP), a non-invasive, non-surgical and non-chemical form of microdermabrasion. The machine has wands with diamond-encrusted tips designed to sand the skin and slough away dead skin cells. This is said to reduce the appearance of fine lines, enlarged pores and acne scars.
How does it work?
IDP exfoliates the top layer of skin and is more effective over several sessions. It's more gentle than dermabrasion. Therapists say you can see results after one session.
What was it like?
The therapist cleans your skin and then firmly runs the metal wand over your face. The wand is attached to a machine that looks like a Dalek out of Dr Who. It has only a couple of buttons, which makes me wonder if it's as hi-tech as it sounds: one turns it on; the other governs the speed. So it's as easy to use as an electric toothbrush. At first, it was uncomfortable, particularly on those areas where the skin is close to the bone. But it's not painful. There's no stinging and it doesn't feel as if it's peeling the skin, merely giving it a vigorous scrub. The therapist targets areas where there's increased pigmentation or wrinkles, so if you're into anti-ageing treatments, this one feels as if it's really doing something as opposed to just having a facial. It lasts about 30 minutes, and ends with a face massage.