What Does A Dermalogica Face Mapping Skin Analysis Entail?

Did you know that Dermalogica is available at selected Woolworths stores?

I recently visited the Dermalogica counter at Woolworths in Cavendish Square Cape Town to get a complimentary Face Mapping skin analysis.

A Face Mapping Skin Analysis takes several minutes and gives you insights into your skin’s unique needs, allowing you to make smarter, more effective decisions when it comes to your skincare. Think of it as the way Dermalogica therapists read the skin.

It’s been more than 5 years since my last Face Mapping, and my skin needs have obviously changed with age.

Skin Mapping entails dividing the skin on the face into fourteen different zones. Each zone is examined to determine where conditions such as dehydration, hyperpigmentation, breakouts or congestions are present.

A Dermal Analysis Device that utilizes high-resolution images and sensors to capture minute details on the skin’s surface. It then analyses this data to assess the health of the skin, including skin type, pigmentation, wrinkles, pore size and more.

Once the Face mapping is completed, four priority Dermalogica products are recommended, based on one’s main skincare concerns.

These are the 4 priority products I was recommended:

Because of my age – I’ll be fifty in June – my skin needs a good Retinol product to minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, retexturize the skin and even skintone.

I was sent a bottle of the Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum R2,199 BUY last year and really loved it. The formula contains a 3.5% Retinoid Complex coupled with Squalane.

This high-performance serum harnesses an advanced retinoid blend plus a booster to help transform the appearance of skin. A complex of fast-acting Granactive Retinoid ®, Retinol, time-released encapsulated Retinol, and a Retinol Booster support a continual release of skin-smoothing actives working at different speeds to address the four signs of skin ageing. Concentrated Squalane works with soothing, oat-derived Beta-Glucan to help support recovery for healthier-looking skin. Normal, oily and combination skin types can all use this serum.

I use this serum every night because my skin is used to Retinol. However, if yours is not, you need to let the skin acclimate slowly. So it’s best to use Retinol two or three times a week until your skin build up a tolerance.

Retinol is a super active ingredient, so you may notice some temporary redness, flakiness, peeling or sensitivity. These reactions are perfectly normal (it means the Retinol is working) and will stop over time. Remember to ALWAYS wear a sunscreen when using Retinol as the ingredient can make skin sun sensitive.

Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 R1,699 BUY is another daytime moisturiser I’ve used many times before and absolutely adore.

This moisturiser is perfect for our harsh sun, especially in summer. It provides the skin with long-lasting hydration, while protecting it from UV damage. In addition to an SPF 50, it has white tea extract – an extremely effective antioxidant that also works to minimize pigmentation. It blends beautifully; leaving the skin with a soft and matte finish that protects and nourishes it all day.

I was really excited to try the Daily Milkfoliant R1,439 BUY that I was told would be a better formula for my skin which is showing signs of sensitivity. This calming exfoliating powder polishes the skin while supporting its moisture barrier. The formula contains a blend of fruit-based grape extract, Alpha Hydroxy and Beta Hydroxy Acids and coconut milk for softer, smoother skin. The powder formula is activated upon contact with water, releasing extracts to help polish away dead skin cells. I dispense about a teaspoon amount of the powder into the palm of my hand, then mix it with water until it forms a creamy paste. I gently massage it onto my skin after cleansing. I use once a day during my evening skincare ritual.

To be honest, I knew that my skin was becoming more sensitized, but when the Dermal Analysis Device showed me visible proof, I was a bit taken aback. It was recommended I use the Stabilizing Repair Cream R1,499 BUY at night after applying my Retinol treatment.

I really like the comforting balm formula that melts into the skin, alleviating any redness or skin discomfort. Ceramides in the formula boots the skin with nourishing lipids, strengthening its barrier to lock in moisture and keep signs of sensitivity under control. This is a great choice of moisturiser for those with sensitive, reactive or very dry skin.

Have you tried Face Mapping? Let me know in the comments below.