Skin-deep beauty: Menard opened its first concept salon in Kuala Lumpur.

A facial is more than just a pampering session as it encourages cell renewal for a more radiant skin.

HOW often should you have a facial? Most people would go at least once a month.

However, for those who lead busy lifestyles and hardly have time to even go shopping, much less indulge in a pampering session, they probably feel that a facial is an unnecessary luxury altogether.

Well, Japanese skincare brand Menard is trying to change that perception and recommends that one goes for a rejuvenating session at least once every two weeks in order to ensure your skin stays looking its best all the time.

This is not a regimen that I can attest to, given the schedules I keep, but I was also curious as to how different a fortnightly ritual could be from the usual facial.

After all, if one is going to a beauty centre or therapist that practises extraction, one is probably going to end up looking pretty much like our potholed Malaysian roads if one goes for facials so often!

What’s unique about Menard, the brand claims, is its facial technique that was developed after conducting its own R&D in Japan.

A study was conducted on how aesthetics can work on our blood system, lymphatic structure and muscles.

Based on the human body structure, and the movement in our lymphatic vessels, Menard came up with specific facial moves to promote better blood flow and metabolism.

Lisciare range of products from Menard.

This is based on the knowledge that 28 days are needed to renew our skin cells. During this skin regeneration period, removal of dead skin cells, new skin cell growth and cell nutrient replenishment is optimal for a more luminous and radiant skin condition.

According to Menard, the key to an effective aesthetic session include a massage that will improve blood and lymph flow, promote skin metabolism, improve nutrient flow to the skin and waste elimination function, activates muscles and provide relaxation by reducing physical and mental stress.

During the massage, certain Shiatsu points are emphasised to synergistically improve the efficacy of the facial.

After an initial skin check and consultation at the Menard Facial concept salon, I was all set for my 50-minute Lisciare Intense Hydration Facial.

Firstly, my faced was cleansed using Lisciare Cleansing Cream and a minus-ion steamer to open up the pores to remove impurities.

Later, a gadget which I later learnt was a warming device, was used to help facilitate better blood circulation.

Then came the facial and decollete massage. This, as in all other facials that I’ve been to, marked the highlight of the treatment, as it was so relaxing.In fact, I fell asleep soon after and only woke up when it was all over!

A unique gadget akin to a tiny suction cup that opens and closes intermittently is used on key areas of the face to provide vibration.

This is meant to stimulate natural lymphatic movement so that waste material can be discarded from the lymphatic system.

Instead of extraction, a gentle vacuum is used to suck and remove excess sebum and stubborn impurities from pores.

Thereafter, various Lisciare products from the hydration range are used to provide intensive moisture replenishment to the skin.

Since I was going out for the day, the therapist finished up with a sunblock.

Menard has been distributing skincare and cosmetic products in Malaysia for more than 20 years.

The first Menard Facial concept salon opened its doors last November at Plaza Damas in Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur.

Apart from providing pampering services, the salon also offers skin consultation and teaches clients how to use the appropriate products to manage their skin.

Unlike some brands which use professional salon products, Menard uses normal packaging products so that customers can learn to handle their own skin adeptly.

What’s not known to many is the fact that Menard has more than 100 over scientists and researchers working at its research centre to conduct R&D product development in Japan, and much of the research findings are shared in international seminars.

Menard also has its own factory that is ISO compliant.

This year, the brand hopes to increase its retailer network to 100 shops and gradually convert existing salons to follow its current concept.

For more information, log on to nipponmenard.com.my or call 03-6206 3302.

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