Facing the Facts

My appointment to try the 4-Layer Seaweed Facial Treatment at the Charlotte-James Facial Clinic was set for Friday the 13^th, on the eve of Fashion Week here in LA. So, I knew going in that one of two things was going to happen: either I would come out looking as raw as Samantha did in Sex in the City or I’d come out looking refreshed and with a A-list style glow.

As I walked into the Charlotte-James Facial Clinic, I was a bit surprised. It was not at all the relaxing spa setting that I’m accustomed to, instead it was like walking into a real medical facility.

As I checked out the magazines in the waiting room, I felt a touch of anxiety and realized that perhaps a facial AFTER Fashion Week would be more appropriate. But as if on cue, I was greeted by my facialist, Milla. As she walked me towards the treatment room, I passed though a hallway filled with boxes and paperwork, not the most glamorous of walks, the fashionista in me noted. Once I was settled in, Milla asked me a series of basic questions about my skin gave me a primer on the procedure.

The 4-Layer Seaweed Facial uses a series of seaweed applications paired with ultrasound techniques. As an exfoliating treatment, ultrasound is used to remove the very top, dead layer of skin in a process very similar to that of using a razor blade. In addition, the ultrasound is used on a different setting to help stimulate blood and oxygen circulation to ensure that the seaweed and minerals penetrate skin more deeply. She went on to say that this facial is ideal for normal to dry and aging skin. Since I am in my twenties with oily skin, she mentioned that I might not see a dramatic change.

Prior to the facial, Milla washed my skin with a cleanser suited to my skin type and then used the ultrasound to exfoliate the skin. It felt a little like a million tiny ant bites, but was surprisingly not painful. The facial was then applied in four different layers:

1. Seaweed Serum – The serum is a concentrated liquid harvested directly from seaweed. It is initially massaged in by hand and then the ultrasound is applied to ensure intense penetration of the product. This moisturizes and tones the skin.

2. Seaweed Cream-The seaweed cream is massaged into the skin, and then the ultrasound is used to improve blood circulation, which helps the cream penetrate more deeply.

3. Fresh Seaweed Mask – The mask is a mixture of seaweed powder and gel, which has a cooling effect. It must be applied quickly to the skin, before it dries and becomes rubbery.

4. Mineral Mask – The last step of the process is a seaweed mineral mask that is mixed by hand, combining both liquid and powder forms of seaweed. Once applied, it begins to warm the skin and activates the first three layers, forming a clay-like texture.

After all the layers are applied, the masks were removed one layer at a time. The result is smooth, toned and moisturized skin, with a reduction in the appearance of fine wrinkles. Immediately, my skin felt fresh and somehow new. As I turned towards the mirror I prayed, “Please look good, please look good…” Moving closer towards the mirror, I was beyond pleased! My face hadn’t looked that refreshed since I was a young pup in high school. As I thanked Milla for her remarkable work, I could hardly wait for Fashion Week to begin!

Now before you go running off to see the facialists at the Charlotte-James Clinic, keep in mind the following: The facial takes approximately one hour and is not recommended for problematic skin. In addition, men should shave the day of treatment.

Charlotte-James Facial Clinic is located at
10921 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 410
Westwood, CA 90024

For more information, visit www.charlottejames.org