We Tried Dermalogica's Digital Detox Treatment
Dermalogica’s headquarters in Carson, California.
In today’s society, we are constantly connected to our phones, email, computers, television—and the list goes on. While there are many benefits to modern-day technology, it can negatively impact our stress levels, which is why it’s important for our physical health and mental well-being to be able to take a break every now and then from all of the distractions surrounding us.
Introducing Dermalogica’s Digital Detox Treatment—a brand-new facial service that is designed to decrease stress, stimulate lymphatic flow, improve blood circulation, and filter away toxins for a healthy, energetic glow. Recently I visited the brand’s corporate headquarters to experience the rejuvenating treatment, which included an informational session with Daniela Rivera, Dermalogica Advanced Instructor (@dermalogicadaniela).
“We’re in such a digital age where everybody is addicted to their computers, tablet screens, and cell phones, so we really wanted to offer a treatment that focused on something that would disconnect people and make them forget about all of that,” explains Rivera. “Many people experience ‘tech neck,’ cramps, as well as tension and discomfort in their upper shoulders and hands, so we wanted to create a special experience for that hour where you are completely disconnected and relaxed.”
Dermalogica’s corporate headquarters incorporate both research and development as well as training facilities.
Dermalogica was founded in 1986 by Jane Wurwand, a skin therapist from the United Kingdom, and is one of the world’s largest professional skin-care companies. The brand has a big international following with consumers, as well as make-up and skin care specialists, and is known for its innovative ingredients, animal-free testing, as well as results-driven products and facial services.
While receiving my tour of the corporate offices with Lori MacGregor, Dermalogica’s Senior Director of Integrated Communications, I got to take a peek inside the product lab and check out the brand’s newest launch, Prisma Protect SPF 30—a multitasking moisturizer that incorporates drone technology and is activated by visible light to help boost skin’s natural luminosity, providing broad spectrum defense while preventing future signs of skin damage. I already know that this product is going to become one of my beach bag essentials this summer!
Prisma Protect, a light-activating moisturizer, is the brand’s newest launch.
Once the tour was over, I changed into a spa wrap and towel in the locker room, then headed to the treatment room where Rivera performed a Face Mapping skin analysis, which only takes a couple of minutes. During this time she asked me questions about my skin, lifestyle and environment to determine my skin type, possible underlying causes of areas of concern, and then put together product recommendations for my personalized Skin Fitness Plan, which she emailed me after the service.
After analyzing my skin, Rivera pointed out that my dermis is dry due to a lack of oil, or lipids—not water, which was what I had originally thought. During the winter my skin tends to be on the drier side, but despite using multiple toners and serums, nothing seemed to be working. Rivera advised that I switch to an oil-based cleanser, such as the Precleanse, a cleansing oil that will help restore some of the oils my skin is lacking in order to stay hydrated.
Daniela Rivera, Dermalogica Advanced Instructor, ready to perform the Digital Detox Treatment.
Some of the things that set the Digital Detox Treatment apart from other Dermalogica facial services include a weighted blanket for ultimate relaxation, spa headband headphones that play the Sound Sleep Cocoon app so one can totally unplug, and a rubberized contouring mask, which helps products penetrate further into the skin.
“The weighted blanket hugs your body and promotes restfulness, while the headphones help you concentrate on soothing the mind and promoting restfulness,” Rivera points out. “The products we use during the service are completely bespoke and customized.”
Prior to the treatment, Rivera performs a Face Mapping skin analysis.
My treatment started out with Dermalogica’s signature double cleanse, which features the Precleanse and the Special Cleansing Gel. Next, Rivera performed a professional exfoliation, followed by Pressure Point Touch Therapy—which is a special facial massage technique that helps with lymphatic flow, improves circulation, and stimulates the facial muscles for a rejuvenated appearance.
Afterwards, she applied a deep treatment of two serums that targeted my dry skin concerns, then she created a masque ‘cocktail’ that was a combination of the Multivitamin Power Recovery Mask, an ultra-replenishing masque that infuses skin with Linoleic Acid and vitamins A, C and E; and the Colloidal Masque Base, a phytonutrient-rich masque that deeply moisturizes skin.
The Face Mapping skin analysis reveals skin type and concerns to offer a personalized Skin Fitness Plan.
Then Rivera whipped up the contour masque, which she created by mixing a loose powder rich in calcium sulfate and algae-derived silica with water to form a smooth paste. She applied this over my face, leaving it on for about 10 minutes until it set and dried into a firm, rubbery sheet that she peeled off. I enjoyed the cooling sensation of the masque, which helped the products she had applied penetrate my skin further, while at the same time firming and contouring my face.
My Digital Detox Treatment concluded with dermal layering, which is where all of the finishing products are applied. Rivera spritzed my skin with toner, followed by moisturizer, eye cream, SPF, and lip balm. I opened my eyes as she removed the weighted blanket, and felt as if I had reached an entirely new level of relaxation. I loved how the music, blanket, and masque helped put me in a special ‘zone’ that turned off my connection to the outside world, and I emerged feeling refreshed and rejuvenated—not to mention that my skin was more hydrated and toned.
Afterwards, my skin was glowing and was more hydrated, while I felt completely relaxed. Mission accomplished!
The Digital Detox Treatment is perfect for anyone who needs an instant mini mental vacay without actually going anywhere, making it easy to unplug from the distractions of daily life—then jump right back into it without missing a beat.
The 60-minute service is currently available at Dermalogica’s two flagship stores: Dermalogica in Soho, New York and Dermalogica on Montana in Santa Monica, California. For more information and to book a treatment, visit dermalogica.com and follow the brand on Instagram: @dermalogica
[Photos by Kamala Kirk]
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk