It’s an exciting time to be in aesthetics as new products and services are constantly hitting the market. And, at the top of the current list is the advent of new, handheld, professional skin care devices utilizing the intriguing science of nanotechnology.

WHAT IS NANOTECHNOLOGY?

Though nanotechnology has become a ubiquitous term in skin care during recent years, there is still some confusion as to its definition. In simplest terms, it means something extremely small. In more precise terms, nanotechnology is defined as science, engineering, and technology conducted at 1 to 100 nanometers on the nanoscale.” So, for a device to be accurately deemed authentic nanotechnology, it must include a dimension that falls between those measurements.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

So, what does this all mean to skin care professionals? By taking advantage of the enhanced properties nanotechnology affords materials, such as higher strength, lighter weight, and improved performance, there is a new offering in professional skin care called nanofacials.

The primary benefit touted by nanofacials is dramatically increased product and serum absorption. This is achieved using the device and its tip to create hundreds of thousands of invisible, pain-free nanochannels in the epidermis’ outermost layer, the stratum corneum. This is a true game changer, as it allows for results-oriented treatments with none of the negatives associated with more invasive procedures.

Average industry absorption rates for products fall between 2% to 10%. Nanofacials claim to increase absorption rates upwards of 40%, thereby optimizing the benefits of the infused nutrients. This innovation has led to nanotechnology devices recently becoming a hot commodity in the aesthetics industry, which, while promising, also carries concerns.

VETTING A COMPANY

Per Sheri Flasch, founder of the Esthetician Connection said, “Nanotechnology devices have been one of the biggest innovations in recent years, but we really had to vet them for our members. We saw a lot of tools claiming to be nanotechnology that simply weren’t. Always go with an established company you can trust that provides you a guarantee.”

Another consideration with any new modality is regulatory issues. Skin care professionals are well aware that regulations vary from state-to-state and that it is their license on the line when it comes to working within their scope of practice. A professional’s utmost concern should always be protecting themselves and their clients when choosing a new modality.

Wendy Cochran, founder of California Aesthetic Alliance (a group dedicated to protecting aestheticians’ rights), recently presented a verified nanotechnology tool to staff of the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, educating them on true nanotechnology parameters and affirmed the modality fell well within the scope of practice for a licensed aesthetician in California.

FACTORS TO LOOK FOR

Here are some other key features to look for when purchasing a professional nanotechnology device:

• For sanitation and safety reasons, single use, disposable tips are a must.
• Be wary of a device that fits multiple styles of treatment tips. If a device is inspected and reviewed, it is always better to have a device that only manufactures one type of tip.
• Choose mono-crystalline silicon, not metal, for authentic nanotechnology. Silicon as a material, unlike metals, has the ability to be manufactured in the nanoscale.
• Be wary of adjustable depth devices, as true nanotechnology devices are precision tuned to exact specifications.
• Avoid companies that promote a specific product line, as authentic nanotechnology devices should increase the efficacy of any product line.

In conclusion, a nanofacial is perfect for clients who want the results of an aggressive facial, but with none of the negatives. The advent of nanotechnology applications may just be the world’s next industrial revolution, and many are excited to watch the innovations nanotechnology is bringing to the world of aesthetics.