Sonophoresis: A Sound Approach to Skincare

by | Aug 7, 2024

Wouldn’t life be grand if your skincare products could bypass your skin’s protective barrier and deliver their potent ingredients straight to where you need them most? It may sound like a dream, but at Austin Clinic in Balgowlah, it’s a reality thanks to a technology called sonophoresis and our resident skin guru, Ivana.

What is Sonophoresis?

Sonophoresis is a non-invasive technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to enhance the absorption of skincare products. It is a medical technique frequently used in the treatment of muscle soreness, tendonitis and bursitis. What’s the relationship between that and skincare?

“Sonophoresis gives your skin a gentle sonic massage, while simultaneously boosting its ability to soak up those beneficial ingredients,” says Ivana.

The Science Behind Sonophoresis

How and why does sonophoresis work? When sound waves are applied to the skin, they create tiny vibrations. “These vibrations create a temporary schism in the skin’s bilayers,” explains Ivana. “That schism is just the space needed to allow active ingredients to reach deeper layers of the skin.”

Simultaneously, sonophoresis treatment facilitates deep cleaning of pores and the extraction of impurities.

Benefits of Sonophoresis

The benefits of sonophoresis are numerous and diverse. By increasing the absorption of bio-available active ingredients to maximise effectiveness, it promotes smoother, firmer, more hydrated skin. Plus it:

Stimulates circulation – The vibrations created by the sound waves stimulate blood flow, promoting a healthy complexion.

Reduces inflammation – Sonophoresis has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for conditions like acne and rosacea.

Increases collagen production – and therefore reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Minimises pigmentation damage

Another key benefit of this treatment is that it is painless and non-invasive. “Unlike some other skincare treatments, sonophoresis is gentle and doesn’t involve any needles or harmful chemicals,” explains Ivana. Patients refer to the feeling as “relaxing and warm.”

Sonophoresis Aftercare

Get ready to glow almost immediately after treatment. You may notice that your skin is pink or even red after a session, not unlike a mild sunburn. “The feelings may dissipate in a few minutes, but seldom last longer than 24 hours,” says Ivana. In addition, she notes these important steps in your aftercare:

  • Avoid ibuprofen, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory medications for three days after your treatment.
  • Avoid additional skincare treatments for 2-3 days.
  • Apply sunscreen daily

Sonophoresis vs Other Skincare Technologies

Sonophoresis isn’t the only technology used to enhance skincare product absorption. It’s often compared to other methods like microneedling and iontophoresis. While all three aim to improve product penetration, they do so in different ways.

  • Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin to create channels for product absorption.
  • Iontophoresis uses electrical currents to push products into the skin.

Each method has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific skin concerns and goals. Only sonophoresis relies on painless sound waves to temporarily increase skin permeability.

Is Sonophoresis Right for You?

With sonophoresis, as with all skincare treatments, it is wise to consult with a professional before diving into a new approach to skin health and beauty. “Every individual has unique skin properties that should be considered when deciding on a treatment,” says Ivana, noting, “Sonophoresis is generally considered effective for most skin types.”

If you’re looking to enhance the effectiveness of your skincare routine and improve the overall health and appearance of your skin, sonophoresis may be worth considering. Just remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare, so incorporating sonophoresis into your routine should be part of a comprehensive approach.

Would you like to learn more about specific skincare products that work well with sonophoresis? Contact us today for an appointment.

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