Philips is no stranger to introducing new beauty gadgets to the home (think about the Lumea and the Hush hairdryer) but their new product is something new- for every brand. They're aiming to bring Fraxel style laser technology to THE HOME and this is pretty ground breaking.
For the uninitiated, the Fraxel laser is an in salon treatment which uses laser technology to resurface the skin. It's proven very effective at reducing fine lines and signs of ageing-which is great- but it does come at a price tag. The Philips ReAura isn't exactly cheap, but comparatively it's a bargain, and completely safe to use. Endorsed by Dr Sam Bunting, we know it's going to make some major changes to the beauty gadget market, and it not only comes with a manual, but a consultation (in store or online) to check you need it- and that your expectatations are reasonable- as well as an online support system and calendar reminders.
Let me give you a little more background on the Philips ReAura. It looks a little like an oversized hairdryer but is comfortable- and light- to hold. The Philips RéAura has an 'optical tracking system' which allows it to glide over the hand without stopping, so you use it in a smooth motion, rather than the start stop you're used to with the Lumea laser hair removal device. It's encoyraged that you first apply a conductive gel to help it glide (provided) and then use a moisturiser (also provided) afterwards to soothe the skin.
The ReAura uses a lower level laser than you get in the salon, but you make up for this by using it twice a week for 8 weeks- the encouraged time to see real results. In a salon you might go every 3 months or so, so you will hopefully get similar style results.
The ReAura uses thousand of microscopic laser beams which penetrate the dermis and trigger the skins cell renewal process. This leads to increased collagen which equals plumper skin and a reduction in lines on the face and areas used. It can also help get rid of sun spots and areas to use it would be the face, neck, chest and hands.
I'm normally fairly wary of 'clinical studies', but Dr Sam Bunting assured me of their accuracy and told me of how long Philips had delayed release of the ReAura, as they wanted to be 100% confident in its efficacy. The studies showed 81% of users experiencing a reduction in fine lines and 83% benefitting from a more even skin tone.
It's strange when you first use it, as there are different settings of strength and your skin does look slightly red at first trial. This dies down pretty quickly though, but best to do it at night! I'll be getting back to you in a few weeks with a before and after diary with images and you can judge for yourself.
Exciting stuff from Philips- wonder what will be next?
It's available exclusively online and at SpaceNK from later this year- final price is £799.
(A video of it in action.. in German -sorry!)
