What is HIFU lifting? How exactly does it help you look younger? Is it for everyone? Discover all you need to know about this non-invasive cosmetic treatment.

The good news is we now have HIFU lifting technology, which can help you look younger without the need for surgery. About a decade ago, if you wanted tighter, firmer, younger-looking skin on your face and neck, your best option was to get an expensive and sometimes painful facelift. Back then, there weren’t really a lot of other options beyond going under the knife. However, the cosmetic industry has changed a great deal. 

What is HIFU?

Short for High-intensity Focused Ultrasound, HIFU is a fairly new cosmetic treatment which has been found to help tighten the skin around your face, neck and upper chest. Many refer to it as a non-invasive facelift. 

The technology has actually been around for quite a while but it was not developed for cosmetic purposes until 2008. 

The HIFU lifting procedure is as follows:

1. The target area is cleaned (and sometimes coated with a topical anaesthetic cream).
2. The physician or technician doing the treatment coats it with ultrasound gel.
3. The target area is exposed to pulses of ultrasound energy for anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes.

Is HIFU effective?

In a 2017 study, HIFU was found to dramatically improve the skin elasticity of 32 subjects in just 12 weeks. 

In another study, this time involving 93 subjects, 66% of all participants reported seeing an improvement in how their faces and necks looked within the same time period.

Results for HIFU are gradual so you won’t walk away looking ten years younger but you should notice a difference over time and after a couple of treatments. 

How does HIFU lifting work?

HIFU uses ultrasound energy to quickly heat up the layers of the skin just beneath the surface. Don’t worry, though. The treatment does not actually cause visible damage to the surface of the skin or damage to the layers underneath it. What it does do is prompt your cells to boost collagen production, which, in turn, causes your skin to become firmer and tighter.

Once the treatment is done, you’re free to immediately go home and get back to your normal daily activities. This is a far cry from invasive procedures like traditional surgical facelifts, which require a longer recovery time due to bruising and the need for more complex anaesthetic.

The after-effects of HIFU are minimal but may include some mild redness or swelling, or a small amount of tingling or numbness for a day or two after your procedure. 

What makes HIFU so popular?

The number one reason HIFU is quickly becoming the treatment of choice by people who want tighter skin is that it’s non-invasive and virtually painless.

Why go under the knife if you can get the same results without surgery? HIFU is fast becoming a popular ‘lunchtime’ beauty treatment. You can book an appointment for your lunch hour and return to your desk in the afternoon. 

Who is HIFU lifting for?

The treatment generally works best on individuals above 30 years of age with mildly or moderately loose skin. In most cases, the looser and more damaged the patient’s skin is, the more treatments they need before they start seeing results.

HIFU is also not recommended if you have open skin lesions, infections, metallic implants, and cystic or severe acne in the target area. If these do affect you, come and chat to us about alternative treatments. There may be other options that are more suitable to create a younger-looking profile. 

In other words, you must undergo proper consultation when deciding on whether HIFU is the best method to achieve your skin goals. Book some time with Rene or our specialists at Temple spa to help you with making an informed decision.

How much do HIFU treatments cost?

The cost of each HIFU treatment ultimately depends on the area you wish to target. Prices can range between $275 and $1,375 per session.

While the treatment does require some financial outlay, it’s still significantly more affordable than facelifts, which can set you back upwards of $7,000 plus several days of down-time. Schedule a talk with Rene so she can advise on pricing adjustments for your case.

Get younger-looking skin without surgery with HIFU lifting

HIFU is a great alternative to invasive procedures like facelifts for people who want firmer, tighter skin but don’t want to go under the knife. It’s so non-invasive that you won’t even have to worry about needles.

As with any cosmetic procedure, it is important to work with an experienced team. Choose a medi-spa with qualified, therapists who specialise in this type of treatment. 

Book your consultation session today at The Temple Skincare & Spa or contact us to find out if HIFU is right for you.

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What is the best skincare routine? It’s actually a lot simpler and more affordable than many skincare brands would have you believe.

The best skincare routine to keep your skin in top shape doesn’t actually take much. Contrary to what many skincare brands would have you believe, you don’t need 50 different cleansers, toners and creams to get the job done. In fact, using too many products at the same time can do more harm than good because certain beauty product ingredients don’t go well together.

Keeping your skincare routine simple is not only good for your wallet, but for your skin too.

So, what exactly does a simple, daily and the best skincare routine look like?

It consists of just three basic parts:

• Cleansing
• Moisturising
• Protection

1. Cleansing

The first step to keeping your skin healthy is to make sure it is clean. After all, acne breakouts are caused by dirt and oil build-up in your skin.

The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune on super expensive cleansers to keep your skin fresh and clean. Experts recommend a mild, pH-balanced product that’s marked soap-and sulphate-free.

Take a look at Image Skincare’s Ageless Total Facial Cleanser as an ideal daily cleanser. 

As for the number of times you should cleanse your face in a day, that depends on the type of skin you have.

For people with oily skin, for example, twice a day should do the trick. For those with dry or sensitive skin, though, cleansing at night may be enough.

2. Moisturising

Keeping your skin clean is just one part of the equation. You should also make sure it’s always sufficiently moisturised.

This is because while skin dryness is generally not a serious issue, if left unchecked, it could lead to other problems, such as:

• Scaling, flaking or peeling
• Itching (pruritus)
• Fine cracks and lines
• Redness and irritation
• Deeper cracks that could bleed

Fortunately, just like with cleansers, you also don’t need pricey moisturisers to keep skin dryness at bay. It’s actually more important that you pick the right kind for your skin.

As a general rule, people with dry skin need thick and more hydrating moisturisers. In contrast, people with oily skin should stick to lighter, non-greasy, oil-free alternatives.

In any case, it’s always best to go with products that are free from fragrances and alcohol. Some of the moisturiser brands we recommend are Image and iKou. Talk to us for the product that suits your skin then stock up from home via our online shop.

3. Protection

Did you know sun damage is one of the biggest causes of premature skin aging? Too much exposure to sunlight (and other sources of ultraviolet light) can cause fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and a host of other skin issues.

To keep your skin protected, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Our recommendation is Image’s Prevention+ Daily Ultimate Protection, which comes with a tinted option that can double as a makeup foundation. 

Optimise your skincare

At the end of the day, the best skincare routine is the one you do regularly. Set yourself a challenge to cleanse, moisturise and protect every day for three weeks and it should form a new habit. Add a weekly exfoliation scrub and cleansing mask for an even brighter complexion. 

Add to your daily skincare routine and give yourself a glowing complexion with regular treatments at your local beauty salon. Choose from indulgent facials or peels to give your skin a deep cleanse and moisturise. 

If you’re not sure which daily skincare routine products are right for you, your beauty therapist can help. Book an appointment then ask for some recommendations on what to take home. Having an idea of your skin type will help your therapist come up with the best options. 

Need help figuring out what treatments best suit your skin? Talk to our experts here at The Temple Skincare & Spa.

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Looking for Hill’s District Valentine’s Day ideas? Try these different ways to celebrate with your loved one this February 14.

Have you been doing the exact same thing every for Valentine’s Day the past couple of years? Why not change things up a bit? Below are some Valentine’s Day ideas to help you get started. They are all local to Sydney’s beautiful Hills District. 

1. Have a romantic and indulgent Valentine’s Day at The Temple Skincare & Spa

Looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating  experience this year? The Temple Skincare & Spa is the place.

Some of our most popular Valentine’s Day ideas include:

• Couple’s Retreat – 90 minutes of blissful and relaxing massages and facials with a poolside lunch. Make a weekend of it by booking a room at The Hills Lodge  and enjoy their famous High Tea with our spa package. 
• His and Hers Mindfulness Facial Treatment – Guaranteed to not only leave you and your loved one with skin glowing from within, it will also help both of you feel more focused and empowered. As our therapists apply healing and nourishing salves, headphones play meditative music to fully relax and soothe body and mind.
• Men’s Facial – Of course, there’s something for him too. Specifically designed for male skin, this treatment has potent anti-ageing properties. This will surely make a spa-cation fan of your SO.
• Signature Spa Massage – This is an hour and 45 minutes of total body pampering designed to melt your stress away. The package includes a foot soak and scrub, a 90-minute body massage, paraffin infusion, a pressure point face massage, and a de-stressing scalp massage.

Grab a gift voucher or book now for an unforgettable couple’s spa escape at our luxurious Hills District salon. Wanting a customised spa experience? Call us at 02 9634 2411.

2. Have a fun-filled Valentine’s Day at Strike Castle Towers

Why settle for the usual dinner date when you can do something much more fun and exciting?

Bring out your inner child at Strike Castle Towers. With 10 bowling lanes, a karaoke room and a brand-new escape room, you and your partner will have a super fun date night. 

Check out Strike Castle Towers here.

3. Have a food-filled Valentine’s Day at The Cooks Workshop

Instead of eating out, you and your special someone can learn to cook healthy dishes from professional chefs this Valentine’s Day.

Check out The Cooks Workshop in Dural. Founded by Western Sydney Health Sector veteran Jennie Thompson, the venue holds cooking workshops for anyone who wants to get into cooking and healthy meal preparation.

Surprise your Valentine with a voucher so you can learn to cook together. They offer the following:

• Beginners cooking classes
• Healthy cooking classes
• Italian cooking classes
• Thai cooking classes
• Kids cooking classes
• Dessert cooking classes
• Corporate cooking classes
• Customised cooking classes

Check out The Cooks Workshop here.

4. Have a gourmet Valentine’s Day at Noble Restaurant

Nobles Restaurant & Bar enjoys a reputation as one of the leading a la carte Castle Hill restaurants in Sydney’s Hills District. 

With beautiful ambience, atmosphere & top service, the menu is regularly updated to emphasise the season’s best produce, freshness and quality. 

Impress your Valentine this Feb 14th with an intimate and delicious dining experience. The venue fills fast so book your table early to avoid disappointment. 

Find out more.

5. Have an upmarket Valentine’s Day at Event Cinemas

Book a pair of movie tickets and go Gold Class this Valentine’s Day. 

With wall to wall screens, fully reclining armchairs and food and drinks delivered to your seat throughout the movie, you will feel like royalty throughout your cinema experience. Cuddle up and enjoy the show! 

6. Have an Aussie Valentine’s Day at Tobruk Sydney

Have a Valentine’s Day like no other at this expansive acreage at Hawkesbury Valley. This activity is definitely outside of your typical wine-and-dine romantic Valentine’s Day experience but is something different to enjoy as a couple. 

Famous for activities like sheep shearing, boomerang and whip demonstrations, and duck shows, Tobruk Sydney is the place for you if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience around the Hills District this Feb 14th.

Enjoy an Aussie cooked bbq with fresh-made damper to add to your day out. 

Check out Tobruk Sydney here.

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Fat Freezing is the answer to non-surgical body sculpting. Shed unwanted stubborn fat for good and be in the shape you want for your body.

Temple feels it so important to say that your body is your body. No one should ever make you feel ashamed of it. That said, we all have health goals and ideals. If the technology like Fat Freezing exists to help you be in the shape you want your body to be, and if it’s proven and safe, why not use it? If you are into acceptance, more than change, that’s okay too. Hormones and genetics play a large role in how our bodies store fat and in each individual, it’s different. But for those looking to shed the stubborn fat pockets that you have not been able to shake off at the gym, or even with proper nutrition alone, here’s the skinny on Fat Freezing!

What is Fat Freeze?

Fat Freeze or Cryolipolysis is clinically proven to reduce Fat Cells or Adipose Tissue on the treated area by 10 to 28%. The pictures to the right show the fat pockets immediately after a fat freeze session. The duration of the Cryolipolysis session is 50 minutes at a temperature of 10°C. Note that there may be minimal discomfort, but it looks much worse than it really is.

The technical term for the use of cold to destroy fat cells is Cryolipolysis. The term ‘cryo’ is an ancient Greek for cold, while ‘lipolysis’ refers to the breakdown of fat. Essentially, Cryolipolysis is a nonsurgical alternative to surgery such as liposuction. The good news to this is there is no downtime or recovery period. You zip into the treatment room and an hour later, you can go back to your regular routine! But DO NOT  hit the gym immediately after. You want the fat cells to remain cool for as long as possible. Exercising immediately after will pump blood and lymph through the tissues, warming up the area too soon after the session.

Watch a video demo on Fat Freezing here.

How does it work?

The skin is covered with medical gauze, laced with a special serum to prevent the skin from being affected by the cold. The handpieces are essentially suction cups with two cooling plates and are applied to the area. The area to be treated is marked on the body prior to the session. Before photos are taken to be stored on a secure database for reference. The cold penetrates through the skin, slightly numbing the surface of the skin for the duration of the treatment. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold than skin cells, so the fat cells die off without damaging the skin on the surface.

After the treatment, the area is massaged for a minute to restore colour and sensation. The fat cells break down over a period of time through a process known as apoptosis. This refers to the natural process of cells dying, in this case – Fat Cells!

How does the fat leave my body?

The Lymphatic system, (waste removal system in the body) can take up to 3 months to remove the waste completely, much like eating a fatty hamburger and waiting for it to metabolise. Drainage of the decomposing fat cells is accelerated with a pneumatic body suit, which pumps the lymphatic system using air compression. The lymphatic drainage may only be applied two weeks after the fat freeze session and the Fat Freezing may only take place once in a three-month cycle on the same area.

The fat cells leave your body naturally though the digestive and waste elimination system of the body. Many people have more than one area they want to treat. To make quicker progress, most clients choose a new area to target every two weeks up to up to a maximum of 10 areas. In this case, the accelerated lymphatic drainage may only commence two weeks after all the areas have been treated.

The body can safely metabolise and expel this amount of fat in the system. It is of course important to have the right mindset when undertaking any lifestyle program. Whether the weight-loss goal is small, such as stubborn pocket of fat which distorts body shape or where a more dramatic result is required targeting whole areas e.g abdomen, legs, arms, back, hips, or buttocks, commitment to seeing the programme through will give you the best results. Your strategy should always include a healthy diet, appropriate exercise plan, plenty of sleep, optimal hydration, supplements to boost essential vitamins and minerals in the body and proper nutrition.

Want to learn more about the s

Will the treated fat cells come back?

The short answer is no, the treated fat cells are gone for good. Remember though that we are not eradicating all fat cells. On average about 20% of them are removed and while treated fat cells are gone forever, the remaining fat cells are quite capable of storing excess fat and will expand in size without the regulation of a healthy lifestyle.

That said, at Temple Skincare we believe in the 80/20 principle, so don’t be too hard on yourself all the time. Allow yourself a relaxed approach to your healthy routine 2 days per week. For some it might be having a few drinks with friends, or a day or two being active outside instead of the gym. For others it might be a guilt-free meal without counting calories. Moderation is the key. Creating a prison of rules is a sure way to derail somewhere down the line.

If this is something you have been thinking about, but just have not got around to researching, why not give us a call at Temple Skincare and book a no-obligation consultation with one of our caring MediSpa Therapists, trained by International Nano-Scientist and Clinical Educator, Dr Gergoris Stavrou.

We will provide you with a program tailored to your needs.

The post What is Fat Freezing? appeared first on The Temple Skincare & Spa.

Pigmentation is a common skin problem, especially as we age. Here are some answers to the question ‘how can I get rid of skin pigmentation?’

“How can I get rid of pigmentation?” 

This is a question many clients ask their skin specialist. First up, it is helpful to understand the cause of this condition.

Skin pigmentation explained

Everyone’s skin has pigment, it is what gives it colour. However, as we age, the even skin tone enjoyed as children and young adults starts to become unbalanced. Brown pigment patches appear, most noticeably on our hands and faces. This is caused by environmental damage and our skin’s natural melanin production but in some people it is more pronounced than others. 

If brown spots, age spots and skin pigmentation are troubling you, there are some ways to minimise their appearance. Take a look at some ingredients, products and treatments which are popular for getting rid of pigmentation. 

Ingredients

1. Aloe Vera

Studies show that aloe vera is a natural, non-toxic depigmenting compound that can be used to treat pigmentation.

Try applying aloe vera to affected areas of your skin before going to bed and rinsing it off with warm water the next morning. Repeat the cycle daily until you see results.

2. Green Tea Extract

Just like aloe vera, green tea extract is known for its de-pigmenting properties when applied directly onto the skin.

Take note, though, that we’re talking about green tea extract and not green tea bags. While some people swear by the latter, there is currently no actual scientific study proving their efficacy.

3. Red Onion Extract

Research shows that dried red onion skin can be effective in lightening dark patches on your skin. It’s so effective in fact, that several scar and skin-lightening creams actually contain red onion extract.

Products

4. Brightening creams

Skin brightening creams can be a worthy investment if you have been wondering how to get rid of pigmentation. 

One brand we recommend is Image Iluma Intense Brightening Creme. This effectively fades age spots and hyperpigmentation. It contains an exclusive lightening complex which limits your skin’s melanin production (this is what leads to skin pigmentation). The creme evens out skin discolourations and brightens skin for a healthy, youthful and radiant complexion. 

You’ll find this creme at our online store. 

5. Overnight mask

Another option is IMAGE’s Ageless Total Overnight Retinol Masque. Recommended for use two or three times a week, the infusion of triple action time-released retinol technology helps to increase firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin imperfections.

Talk to your beauty therapist about whether this product is right for you and how often you should use it. 

Therapies

6. Cosmetic Treatments

Home remedies and creams should lighten skin pigmentation but sometimes more thorough treatment is needed to have you looking your best. 

Your first step is to book a consultation with a skin specialist who will examine your skin and the pigment which is troubling you. From there, options may include: 

• MDA: A non-invasive skin resurfacing procedure that gently reveals your fresher, younger skin cells
• Specialised laser treatments, which offer fast, comfortable and safe results on broken capillaries, spider veins and brown spots
• Microdermabrasion and IPL rejuvenation, for fast results on ageing and pigmentation
• Skin needling: To bring pigment to the surface and restore a more even skin tone. 

Cosmetic scientists are constantly developing new and improved treatment methods to reduce brown spots and skin pigmentation. To reduce your imperfections, book an initial consultation at The Temple Skincare & Spa. Your specialist with review your complexion, go through your treatment options and recommend a course of action for at home and in the salon. 

Learn more about how to combat INFLAMMATION! Another Summer Skin Bummer this season. Click on the button below to download.

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Day spas like The Temple at Hills Lodge provide men with results-driven skin and body treatments that improve their appearance and wellbeing.

Most women will have visited (and enjoyed!) a day spa at least once in their lives. A day spa, like The Temple Skincare & Spa at Hills Lodge Hotel and Spa in Castle Hill is often considered to be a haven of relaxation and pampering to be visited by the gals rather than the guys. But it actually may surprise you how many men are regular clients. 

In 2017, The International Spa Association in America reported that 49 per cent of spa customers are now men, up from 29 per cent in 2005. Australian reports also cite a rise in male spa clientele.

More beauty, less beast!

These days blokes are realising that looking and feeling good means more than a daily wash and the occasional shave. 

The emasculating stigma of using skin products to soften dry skin, or going to a spa for a chest wax, is gone. In its place, regular grooming and skincare is becoming a natural health choice for men seeking to care for their physique. 

What’s on offer at a day spa for a guy who’s open to opening his pores and has finally got the message about massage? These are some of the top treatments that men are choosing when visiting a day spa like Temple Skincare at The Hills Lodge Hotel. 

Attack the pimples – Acne facials

Acne is indiscriminate and affects men just as much as women. At the Hills Lodge Hotel’s in-house day spa, men can choose from a selection of facial treatments that specifically target acne breakouts. The 60 minute Men’s Facial, for example, is specially tailored to a man’s skin., while the Clear Skin Treatment is a deep cleansing facial that will target congestion, acne and breakouts.  

Meanwhile, the Medi-Spa facials mean business. Treatments like Hydrabrasion Deep Cleaning, LED blue-light therapy and Micro needling are more results-oriented. They have been shown to help with prolonged skincare issues like acne, scarring, rosacea and psoriasis. 

The relaxation power of a massage

There’s nothing like a massage to restore aching and tense muscles. High-stress jobs and hardcore workouts are sending men to the Hills Lodge Hotel and Day Spa for stress relief and relaxation massages.  

Nailing it

The painful symptoms of onychomycosis, or nail infection, usually on the toes, can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Day and medi-spas offer men the opportunity to treat this uncomfortable condition with the latest laser technology at a reasonable price. 

Wrinkle-wrangling

Men are generally less concerned with lines and wrinkles. Let’s face it, they’re not too bothered about looking beautiful, and the rugged look usually suits them. 

These natural effects of ageing, however, can make you appear angry or tired when you don’t feel that way. Anti-wrinkle facials and lifting treatments, plus the latest non-invasive radio-frequency technology, are therefore a popular choice among men frequenting day spas.

Coolshaping is cool

Regular gym sessions will only get a guy so far before it’s time to look to a Coolshape spa treatment for some ultimate body sculpting. 

Cryolipolysis technology (don’t worry if you can’t pronounce it!) – basically fat freezing – has been around for more than 10 years. The men who come to Temple Skincare & Spa at Hills Lodge for this non-surgical body smoothing and skin tightening treatment are looking to put the finishing touches to that hard-earned gym body.

These and many other spa treatments are becoming the norm among the masculine sex. They are helping to give men the same confidence and feeling of well-being that women have been enjoying for centuries. 

Couples Retreat at Temple

Thinking of getting away for some R&R with your loved one? Maybe you’re planning on spoiling her with a romantic day? Then, Temple has the most exquisite spa-day pampering for you and your partner. Our newly opened Couple’s Suite is yours for an hours-long session of facials, full body massages and a poolside lunch guaranteed to reduce stress and bring you closer to each other.

Looking to make a weekend of it? Book a room at the Hills Lodge and maybe even enjoy their famous High Tea. You’ll feel like a King and a Queen for a day!

At The Temple Skincare & Spa we offer effective, results-driven treatments in a private and professional environment. Contact us to arrange a consultation so we can help you achieve your skin and body-care goals.

The post Day spas: what’s in it for him? appeared first on The Temple Skincare & Spa.

Clients at The Temple Skincare & Spa often ask, “How often can I have skin needling?” Read on to discover how much time you’ll need to achieve your skin goals.

Skin needling is known to be a great way to remedy scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. While initial results can be satisfyingly dramatic, you do need patience and commitment to get the best skin you deserve. For best results, it usually takes more than one session for the effects to really be noticeable.

Fortunately, it is generally safe to do the treatment over and over again—as long as you give your skin enough time to fully recover between sessions.

But just how much time is enough? This is a question our clients often ask us at The Temple Skincare & Spa. 

What conditions does skin needling address?

Skin needling is known to help with:

• Surgical scars
• Acne scars
• Wrinkles and fine lines
• Enlarged pores
• Poor skin texture
• Stretch marks
• Keloid scars

It is best to schedule an appointment for Specialist Services (scroll down the list to book) so that our trained specialists can walk you through the procedure and a treatment plan to fit you.

How often can I have skin needling?

As a general rule, a skin needling treatment can be done safely every six to eight weeks. But this will still ultimately depend on your specific condition. Why the wait time between sessions?

While generally safe, the treatment involves stimulating your skin to prompt it to produce new elastin and collagen. This response is what causes your skin to thicken and become more plump, making scars, fine lines, and wrinkles less visible.

Scheduling time between sessions gives your skin the time it needs to respond to treatment. While results are not immediate, you should notice a difference to the way your skin looks after a couple of weeks. 

Does skin needling hurt?

Most people would categorise the feeling experienced during a skin needling session as mild discomfort rather than full-on pain. A good therapist will offer numbing cream to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

The benefit of this is you get to relax in peace while the numbing cream takes effect. It is like a mini-meditation session at Temple!

Check out Temple Skin Needling Pricing here.

How long does it take to recover post-treatment?

Immediately after, your skin will feel mildly raw and red — do not be alarmed, this is your skin’s normal and natural reaction to the procedure. For most people, recovery from the redness caused by a skin needling session takes anywhere between 12 and 48 hours. The feeling of ‘hot skin’ usually subsides as well over this amount of time.

During the recovery period, you can expect your skin to show mild redness, inflammation, and possibly some pinpoint bleeding and bruising. Your skin is unlikely to hurt any more than a mild sunburn.

Experts recommend you use hyaluronic acid right after the procedure. Protect your skin with a hat and a zinc-based sunblock (avoid oil-based products completely) until it goes back to feeling normal.

In terms of physical recovery, you should feel fine after your skin-needling treatment. There will be no need for a rest and you can go about your day as usual. 

Some clients notice scabbing after skin needling. This is a normal outcome and it can be gently exfoliated after three or four days. Talk to your Temple therapist for their recommendations. 

How many sessions do I need?

The number of skin needling sessions you need ultimately depends on your specific condition, the results you want to see, and how well you respond to the treatment.

If you just want to up your collagen production, for example, then around three sessions should be enough. For scarring, up to six sessions may be required.

The good news is that in most cases, patients report seeing some results after the very first session. It’s the full effects of the treatment that typically take months to become visible. When they do, you may find your friends comment that you look ‘well’ or ‘great’. 

As the saying goes, “People will notice but nobody will know!”

Is skin needling for everyone?

The short answer is yes. The treatment works for most healthy individuals.

You should, however, hold off on having the procedure if you have any skin lesions or active pimples to keep them from getting worse. Your Temple therapist may recommend another treatment, depending on your desired outcome. Have a chat to them ahead of your appointment if you’re not sure if skin needling is right for you.

As in most cases, consulting our team of highly-trained specialists will help in deciding the best treatment plan, procedure and frequency of treatment that is customised to your skin and goals.

Are there any side effects?

No serious side effects have been reported in more than 150,000 skin needling treatments performed across the globe. 

However, it’s still always a good idea to talk to your dermatologist first before undergoing any type of cosmetic treatment.

How much does skin needling cost?

Each session of skin needling typically costs between $250 and $450. These numbers could still change, depending on where you get the treatment done and what kind you sign up for: corrective needling or shallow skin needling. As the names suggest, the first one is for more severe skin issues while the second one is for more minor imperfections.

Not sure if skin needling is the right choice? Talk to our skin treatment experts here at The Temple Skincare & Spa. We’ll be more than happy to help you find the best skin treatment for your specific beauty goals.

The post How often can I have skin needling? appeared first on The Temple Skincare & Spa.

Curious about pregnancy massages? Are they good for you? Are there risks? Find out the benefits and risks of a yummy mummy pregnancy massage. 

Massages have long been known to help promote better health, minimise stress and alleviate muscle tension. But are they safe and beneficial for pregnant women? 

Modern research says they generally are — and they offer additional benefits for expectant mothers.

Take a look at five reasons to book a pregnancy massage with an experienced practitioner:

Benefit #1: Improved hormone regulation

Regular pregnancy massages—like the one we offer at The Temple Skincare & Spa—are known to minimise stress hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine, while boosting ‘happy’ hormones like serotonin and dopamine.

This, in turn, is thought to be helpful in reducing the number of complications during childbirth and with the newborn itself.

Benefit #2: Reduced swelling

Massages are great at not only improving blood and lymph circulation, but also minimising the collection of fluids in the joints. In expectant mothers, this whole process can help reduce the natural swelling caused by being pregnant.

Benefit #3: Less pain

The extra weight you have to carry during your pregnancy can cause cramps, spasms and back and joint pain. Pregnancy massages are known to help alleviate all these symptoms by relieving muscle tension.

But that’s not all a good massage can do for you. Studies show a good pregnancy massage is also great for easing the sciatic nerve pain that is common when you’re in your third trimester. This discomfort is caused by your expanded uterus and its growing guest resting on your lower back and pelvic floor.

Benefit #4: Lower risk of stretch marks

A very gentle massage at home with a product like Bio Oil can be beneficial in reducing the stretch marks which appear as your baby grows. 

Couple this with sufficient hydration and a healthy diet rich in skin-friendly nutrients, and you have the perfect recipe for minimising your risk of stretch marks lingering after you have given birth.

Benefit #5: Improved sleep quality

Sleep is crucial to good health—especially in expectant mothers. Not only will it help reduce your risk for getting sick, it will improve your mood and energy levels, making your body the perfect habitat for your little one.

With all those aches, pains and nerves brought on by pregnancy, a relaxing massage can help improve the quality of your sleep so you can rest and be ready for your baby’s arrival. 

Some things to consider

Pregnancy massages bring a couple of great benefits to the table but there are a couple of things you need to keep in mind.

Before you treat yourself to one, be sure to check with your doctor first. While studies show that prenatal massages are generally safe, every expectant mother is different. What’s perfectly safe for one may cause complications in another.

Second, you need to find someone trained to do a proper pregnancy massage. If you’re in the Hills District, visit The Temple Skincare & Spa, where we offer the services of experienced practitioners.

Our qualified massage therapists will help you relax the tired and aching muscles in your lower back, thighs and feet, providing you with much-needed relief from the physical pressure of pregnancy. To ensure you and your little one’s safety, we will only treat you once you get past your first trimester.

Should you get a pregnancy massage?

If you believe treating yourself to a good pregnancy massage will help you feel like the yummy mummy you know you are, why not book today?

Just make sure you get clearance from your doctor first, and only get your massages from a qualified professional.

Book your pregnancy massage session at The Temple Skincare & Spa today.

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Self-care is essential for overall health and well-being, no matter what time of the year it is (but yes, especially during the Holidays). Finding time for self-care may require some advance planning and thought, but it’s worth it. Relax and rejuvenate at the best day spa in Sydney and you will reap the benefits.

These days it is more important than ever to find time in our busy lives for self-care. 

Many women, mums especially, are pulled in so many directions because of work and family commitments. We can lose our sense of self in the craziness of life. Find out why and how you should put the well-being of your body and mind at the top of your to-do list.

What do we mean by self-care and why is it important?

Self-care means taking the time out of a hectic schedule to put yourself first. How many times have you felt you are only just keeping your head above water with all the chores, to-do lists, kids’ needs, work deadlines and much more? Especially during the holidays, it can feel impossible to step away or switch off from it all. But self-care is essential to our physical, emotional and mental well-being. 

A study from 2015 showed that, among Australians, levels of well-being are decreasing and levels of anxiety are increasing. Not making the time to relax, find balance in your life and rejuvenate can lead to stress, anxiety and even depression.

There are many benefits to taking a breather and stepping out of the rat race for as little as half an hour or an hour a day. Regular self-care helps your health on a physical level by giving your body a chance to rest and repair. It also helps on a mental level by improving your mood, making you a calmer, happier person. This in turn boosts confidence and self-esteem. 

Looking after yourself shows you value your needs, which helps those around you value them too. By setting the expectation in your family that self-care is a priority, you will also be modelling the right behaviour for your children and partner.

How to make time for self-care

You may decide that self-care for you means a whole day of pampering at the best day spa in Sydney, or just 20 minutes to go for a run. Either way, you’ll need to work out when and how to fit it into your busy life. Here are a few tips on making time for self-care:

• Where possible, schedule your me-time into your calendar. You’re much more likely to do it if it’s already planned into your day or week.
• Parents – if you have small children, why not arrange to swap babysitting time with friends or with family members? Book that massage or facial and make it a regular appointment.
• Look to your partner to support you. That might mean making a time when they do something special with the kids so you can have time to pamper yourself. Or just one night a week when you don’t have to do dinner and bedtime. They may not get it perfect but they will manage!
• Give yourself a break from all distractions and interruptions. Put your phone and laptop in a drawer so you are not tempted to ‘just quickly do this’ or ‘just take this one call’.

Top suggestions for self-care

Once you’ve organised your timetable to include time for yourself, it’s time to think about what you can do. Self-care is a very personal thing. For some, it means energising the body and clearing the mind through a vigorous sport or a physical challenge. For others, it can mean finding a quiet space and activity to unwind the mind, soothe the body and lift the mood. 

Here are some great ways to look after yourself, de-stress and revive your mind, body and soul:

• Take a book to a corner of a cafe and enjoy some quiet time alone
• Go for a bike ride or jog around the local park
• Book a facial, massage, body scrub or pedicure and manicure at your local Sydney day spa
• If you’re getting your treatment at the Temple Skincare & Spa, why not treat yourself to a special night at The Hills Lodge hotel and book to stay overnight?
• Book an aromatherapy treatment to nourish your skin and ease muscle tension
• Find a calm, quiet place at home or in nature to meditate
• Take a long hot bath with essential oils and a relaxing music playlist

There’s no time like the present. Contact us at the Temple Skincare & Spa and we will be happy to find the perfect relaxation treatment to help you get started on your self-care journey.

The post How to find the time for self-care appeared first on The Temple Skincare & Spa.

Want to look younger? Find out how beauty secrets like simple lifestyle changes and advanced skin technology treatments can help make that happen.

To instantly look younger, expert makeup application is the key. If you’re looking for a beauty secrets that are more long-term solution to hide the signs of ageing, then it’ll take a little more than that.

Take a look at the top six best-kept beauty secrets experts use to get glowing, younger-looking skin and keep it at its healthy best.

1. Make healthier food choices
2. Get more sleep
3. Minimise stress
4. Stay away from cigarettes
5. Follow a sensible skin care regimen
6. Treat yourself to skin treatments

Beauty Secret #1: Make healthier food choices

Aside from excess sun exposure, nothing messes your skin up like junk food.

High levels of carbohydrates, salt and sugar not only cause dehydration, they also make your hormones go haywire, ultimately leading to conditions like acne and dull skin. These foods also lack the necessary nutrients your organs—including your skin—need to be in peak condition.

The fix? Cut down on your junk food consumption and introduce more nutrient-rich alternatives into your diet. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, some cucumber slices or dunk in a sugar-free, caffeine-free fruit tea bag to add flavour.

Beauty Secret #2: Get more sleep

Lack of sleep is not only bad for your health, it’s terrible for your skin. Aside from causing fine lines, dark circles under your eyes and lacklustre skin, it also interferes with your body’s natural ability to repair tissue damage.

If you’re not consistently getting between 7 and 10 hours of shut-eye a night, you’ll notice the toll it takes on your complexion. 

Beauty Secret #3: Minimise stress

Chronic stress makes your skin more sensitive and causes it to release more oil, ultimately making you more prone to breakouts and other skin conditions.

Unfortunately, staying away from stressful situations is not always possible. What you can do, instead, is find ways to de-stress regularly.

Meditate. Exercise. Spend a day at the spa. Take a few days off or find an activity to take your mind off the things that are stressing you out.

Beauty Secret #4: Stay away from cigarettes

Aside from all the well-documented health risks that come with smoking, this habit also damages your skin in several ways:

• It decreases blood flow to the outermost layers of your skin, depleting their supply of oxygen and nutrients
• It damages elastin and collagen, making your skin weaker and less elastic
• It causes you to make facial expressions that can contribute to wrinkles (e.g., pursing your lips and squinting your eyes)

The result, of course, is dull, old-looking skin.

Beauty Secret #5: Follow a sensible skin care regimen

This one’s pretty straight forward. As long as you use products to keep your skin clean, hydrated, moisturised and protected from the sun, you’ll be fine.

Talk to your dermatologist if you don’t know where to start. The experts at The Temple Skincare & Spa can help custom-design a skincare routine for your skin type and lifestyle, recommending the products which will work best for you. 

Beauty Secret #6: Treat yourself to skin treatments

If you want to see results faster, trips to your favourite skin care centre should also be a part of your routine. 

Looking to minimise wrinkles, scarring or stretch marks? Our Skin Needling treatment is known to help by stimulating natural tissue regeneration. This short procedure involves very little discomfort and won’t require any downtime. 

Need a little lift? Our non-invasive lift treatments are known to promote natural skin tightening and promote a firmer overall appearance.

Talking to Temple Skincare therapists can help you realise your skin goals. 

Looking for a skin specialist? Book an appointment at The Temple Skincare & Spa. 

The post What are the Best-Kept Beauty Secrets for Looking Young appeared first on The Temple Skincare & Spa.