Lasers: The word alone can be a little frightening, especially if you're talking about putting them anywhere near your face. But skin care experts will tell you that laser facials can be extremely beneficial for your skin's health, especially if you're looking to get rid of leftover acne scars from high school or budding dark spots that are starting to make their presence more known. In fact, there are a growing number of clinics and spas across the country that are offering laser procedures, and at the top of that list is Skin Laundry.
Skin Laundry has been called "the Drybar of facials." That's because they offer quick and painless 15-minute laser and light facial treatments. Skin Laundry was even named one of the 11 beauty startups to watch in 2017 by Fast Company, which means if there isn't a clinic by you now, there will likely be one in the near future. They currently have 15 locations (from Los Angeles to Hong Kong), but plan on opening 20-30 more in the next two years. In addition to its clinics, the brand offers its own products, including sheet masks and serums, which are now available at your local Sephora.
But back to their signature offering which made them the buzzworthy brand they are today — the 15 minute Laser & Light Facial. How does it work exactly? Here's how founder Yen Reis describes it.
"Skin Laundry's renowned Laser + Light Facial uses a proprietary two-step system: a combination of a YAG Laser and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). One treatment will deep clean, brighten, and tighten your skin, while regular treatments will produce more dramatic, long-term results, such as the reduction of sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles; the clearing of acne; the prevention of future breakouts; and the stimulation of collagen and elastin production." What's more? It couldn't be easier. "The treatment is so easy — [your] skin looks refreshed the moment you walk out the door. No makeup necessary."
If you're curious about trying it out, Reis describes the ideal candidate as "anyone looking for a nice, professional deep clean or for those who have more specific concerns such as acne/acne scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles." But even if you don't suffer from any of those skin issues, the laser and light facial is great for skin maintenance and preventative care. Plus, if you're a first-timer, the treatment (which usually costs $65) is free — what have you got to lose?!
If there isn't a Skin Laundry near you, but you are interested in trying out products from their collection, Reis suggests the brand's Wash & Wear skin care collection. "It is a great choice for in-between treatments or for those who don’t (yet!) live near a Skin Laundry location. They go hand-in-hand with the Laser & Light Facial and are designed to clean, nourish, and protect skin."
Another one of her favorites from the line? The gentle cream cleanser. "I love how it’s a creamy foam when you lather it, I love that it removes makeup (you can use it with cotton to remove eye makeup), and I love how it leaves your skin nice and moisturized after each wash. The added bonus is its lemon/citrus scent smells so fresh and clean."
Hydrating Cream Face Wash, $20, www.skinlaundry.com
To find out where the nearest Skin Laundry is, check out their locations here. To shop the entire collection, head over to their website or Sephora.com.