MYCROLATOR Skin Prep with Filtered facial oil serums the Science Behind the System
Contents the Skin Ageing Process 3 the Path to Nourished Glowing Skin 5 our Filtered Facial Oil Serums 7 MYCROLATOR Skin Prep 9 Superior Levels of Product Quality 11 Instructions for use 13 Frequently asked questions 15 Testimonials 16 p2
Our skin is a great indicator of our health and wellbeing, reflecting not just the lifestyle we lead, but also the environment we live in. Our skin undergoes several changes as we age, which are inevitable. Physiological aging occurs as a natural part of growing old. It is an irreversible process which leads to sagging of the skin, wrinkles, rougher skin texture and dehydration of the skin leading to dry irritated skin. Our rate of physiological aging is determined by our genetic makeup, and there is very little we can do to slow this down. As the cell renewal rate slows down, so does the cell turnover rate as a result new cells take longer to reach the surface of the skin thus leaving the skin appearing dull and devitalized. When the synthesis of the proteins Elastin and Collagen (these are responsible for the elasticity and strength of the skin) slows down, the skin begins to sag. The lipid barrier layer of the skin gradually becomes compromised as we get older and as a result the skin becomes dehydrated and produces less oil, thus losing its glow and texture. Photo aging is premature aging, caused by exposure to the ultra violet (UV) rays from the sun. The International Dermal Institute has reported that up to 95% of the signs of premature aging can be attributed to the sun. These include age spots, spider veins, rough and leathery skin, loose skin and a blotchy complexion. The effects of the sun can be minimized through the use of suitable skin products that enhance skin hydration and minimize the absorption of the UV rays. p3
A combination of factors contribute to skin aging including poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, air pollution, toxins absorbed through smoke inhalation (both as an active and passive smoker), harsh skin care products, and improper skin cleansing. The Black Et Blanc range of skin care products are based on sound science, and natural oils, used for over centuries. We do not include any artificial colours, or fragrances, and our products are prepared to very high quality and standards, bringing you innovative skin-care that will make a difference. p4
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Pure plant oils work wonders for the skin from nourishing and replenishing the natural moisture of dry skin, to the removal of fine lines and blemishes. The use of natural oils is nothing new and our ancestors have been using them for centuries to look after their skin. Oils are incredibly beneficial for all skin types, improving skin texture, and tone, protecting the skin through anti-oxidant effects, and keeping the skin hydrated and supple. Contrary to common belief, other than some very specific oils, natural plant and seed oils do not lead to break-outs and often it is quite the contrary; the skin is packed with oil producing sebaceous glands which actually facilitate the deep absorption of natural oils, rebalancing the skin and even preventing excess oiliness as a result. Our skin naturally produces the oil-like substance called sebum, and as we age the production of this oily substance declines. It is this sebum that is responsible for giving the skin its natural youthful glow. Plant based oils nourish the skin to help rejuvenate the skin and bring back its youthful appearance which is otherwise lost with the decline in sebum production. Conventional skin care products may have adverse effects that many users are not aware of. Firstly the products are designed to strip-away the natural oil from our skin. Our skin is the largest organ of the body and it will act to constantly try to replenish the lost oil by creating more oil, and over-compensating for the loss. As a result we go through episodes of very dry skin to very greasy skin. The second issue is that almost all skincare products are highly scented. These fragrances are one of the top skin irritants, thus creating what essentially becomes a vicious circle of dry, oily and irritated skin. The oils naturally produced by our skin are there to help lubricate, protect, heal, and moisturize the skin as part of its natural function. Properly functioning skin is beautiful, clear, and glowing, and natural oils act to supplement this. Plant based oils are generally non-comedogenic, meaning that they are not likely to clog pores and cause breakouts. Our range of natural plant based oils have been scientifically formulated to offer the best results, and their beneficial properties are significantly enhanced when used in combination with the unique MYCROLATOR Skin-Prep device. p6
Our scientists have formulated a unique blend of oils that have been carefully selected for their specific properties and suitability for different skin conditions. They have also been dermatologically tested by an independent leading global skin-testing clinic to demonstrate their skin friendliness. All our oils are cold-pressed, where the oils are extracted from the raw plants and seeds using heavy granite millstones or stainless steel presses. This leads to the finest, purest, oils, which retain their natural aroma, and skin healing properties, such as the rich source of vitamins and antioxidants present in many of these oils. Most commercially produced oils are heat processed which leads to a loss of many of their natural properties, and the heating process can also lead to degradation of the oils leading to impurities that can have toxic properties. We do not add any preservatives, coloring or fragrances. Our oil blends are 100% natural and mainly extracted from plants and seeds taken from certified organic plantations around the world. p7
These are just some of the benefits of our unique oil blends: Dry Skin blend Consists of oils that have natural softening and moisturizing properties. Sensitive Skin blend Produced from a mixture of oils rich in fatty acids and vitamins, to help nourish the skin. Antioxidant Skin care blend A rich blend of oils containing an abundant source of natural antioxidants, suitable for maintaining and protecting all skin types. Mature Skin blend Containing oils that enhance, glow and hydrate the skin to revitalize the otherwise dull and devitalized appearance of skin as we mature. Blemished Skin blend Formulated with natural plant and seed oils that have a history of helping to remove small blemishes and fine lines. p8
the Benefits Whether we go back to ancient Chinese acupuncture techniques, or more recent non-surgical cosmetic treatments, or mesotherapy as it is known, at the heart of it are the use of fine metal needles. The use of microneedles in more recent times has proliferated throughout skin clinics all over the world, for the removal of wrinkles, scars, and improvement in skin texture. These are invasive procedures that involve the application of needles into the skin to induce the growth of collagen for healthier looking skin, and a gradual fading of fine lines and scar pigments, as the healthy new tissue replaces the older tissues. The average person does not require such aggressive skin treatment procedures to maintain healthy skin, and minimize and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Indeed longer term regular care of the skin is likely to yield firmer, more balanced skin conditions (in-between the periodic invasive procedures) to provide a complete skin-care solution for the discerning consumer. The top layer of the skin is essentially made up of densely packed dead protein cells. The MYCROLATOR Skin Prep device is a subtle non-invasive device that is designed to gently perturb the upper-most layer of the skin. The MYCROLATOR Skin Prep contains certified Class 1 medical device stainless steel micro-projection strips. The first of its kind, it is made in the UK specifically for facial use by both men and women, to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, small scarring and blemishes. When a cream, lotion or oil is applied to the skin, it does not usually stay there for any significant period of time. Only a small fraction of what is applied onto the skin actually gets absorbed. As a result the benefits are very limited and transient, doing little less than covering the surface of the skin. The MYCROLATOR Skin Prep device causes disruption of the uppermost layer of the skin called the Stratum Corneum, where there are dead skin cells. In causing this disruption, it dramatically increases its surface area, into which our unique blend of oils are able to absorb and form what can be called 'micropockets' or 'micro-reservoirs'. p9
These micro-reservoirs allow the transient storage of the oils on the skin, so that the oils can be gently absorbed into the skin for much longer than normal; as a result, the beneficial effects are substantially improved and the absorption is sustained for several hours, compared to a few seconds or minutes for conventional regimes. As a further benefit the disruption to the dead cells stimulates the production and replenishment of new cells without the use of any aggressive procedures or chemicals. This combined approach leads to fresh, rejuvenated healthier skin, and provides for a natural and novel way to maintain the skin during its natural aging process. p10
Superior levels of Product Quality Our oils have been produced according to current Good Manufacturing Practices. The oils are pressed, then blended, and filtered through 5-micron pore Pharmaceutical grade filters filtration pores which are less than a twentieth of the width of an average human hair. This enables the removal of any particulate debris and provides the highest levels of cleanliness. The product is filled under Class 100 conditions, where the air is HEPA-filtered, meaning that the air has been filtered to remove particulate and bacterial contaminants. This level of filtration provides an environment with less than 100 particles per cubic foot compared to 100,000 particles per cubit foot which is the average for the cosmetic industry. The oil serums are supplied in Pharmaceutical grade glass vials made to the exacting requirements of healthcare regulatory agencies around the world such as the FDA and EMEA. The vials are then closed with Pharmaceutical grade rubber stoppers, and finally plastic caps produced from medical grade materials. The packaging integrity has been designed to keep bacteria and contamination out, and provide a secure environment for the long-term storage of the Oils. You may wonder why the individual vials rather than a single container with a dispenser for example? Each time you open a container you are compromising the product with microorganisms from the atmosphere and from your own body, such as skin cells. Our method minimises any such contamination from atmospheric and environmental sources, ensuring you are always using product of a high quality. p11
Our microneedles are engineered in Germany by the worlds leading experts in Microneedling. They are produced from medical grade stainless steel. These are embedded into medical grade plastic, and subsequently assembled in the UK. Our microneedle arrays are precision engineered to provide the highest quality super-sharp tips for effortless application to the skin. You can rely on the Black Et Blanc brand to bring you simple, effective solutions for skincare backed with science, and intelligent design every step of the way from the raw materials that we source to the final product you apply to your skin. p12
HOW TO MYCROLATE For the best results, use the MYCROLATOR up to twice a week. Mycrolating at night is recommended to achieve the best absorption. The process should be repeated regularly to maintain healthy, nourished skin. 1 Wash and dry face. Rinse MYCROLATOR under a hot running tap and shake off excess water. 2 3 Gently dab the MYCROLATOR on to the skin, avoiding the cheeks or very thin areas of the skin. DO NOT rotate or twist the device. Only use up and down motions. Wash and dry face. 4 p13
5 Wash your hands then open vial and pour small amount of oil on to your fingers. Gradually apply oil to the face, gently rubbing the oil into the skin. Apply the oil to all areas of the skin, avoiding the eyes. 6 7 Dispose of empty oil vial. Rinse the MYCROLATOR under a hot running tap then place in to the cleansing jar and fill a third of the jar with cleansing solution. SUBSEQUENT MYCROLATOR USE For subsequent uses, simply rinse the Mycrolator under warm water and shake dry before applying to the face. Replace the cleansing solution in the cleansing jar each time the device is stored, and dispose of the device after six to eight uses. The Mycrolator MUST NOT be used directly on skin with active acne, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis or raised moles or warts. Side-effects may include redness of the skin following use. If the irritation persists, stop using the device and oils immediately. Seek medical advice if necessary. This product combination has been dermatologically tested and has been found to be safe and non-irritant. Do not use the Mycrolator with any other products or creams. p14
FAQ S Q1. Does the device need to be sterile? A. The regulatory authorities require any device that is designed to be invasive and single use only, to be sterile. The MYCROLATOR skin-prep device is designed to be re-used multiple times, by cleansing with a sanitizing solution between uses. It is not required to be sterile as it is not intended for invasive use and is suitable for use both in the clinic and in the home setting. The needles are 0.2mm or less, designed to perturb the surface of the skin and not cause deep penetration of the skin like other medical microneedles. Needle lengths above 0.3mm would be classified as single use sterile devices. Q2. Why do people often use longer needles? A. Longer needles are designed to pierce the skin and cause artificial controlled injury to the skin, which leads to the bodies natural repair mechanisms being stimulated thus inducing the growth of collagen. This is also known as collagen induction therapy. There are numerous clinical reports demonstrating the efficacy of the system and indeed such systems are used worldwide in skin clinics for that purpose. These are single use disposable devices with needles lengths generally exceeding 0.3mm. The Mycrolator on the other hand contains super-sharp medical grade stainless steel needles designed to perturb the upper-most layer of the skin creating micro-reservoirs of oil after application of the oil serum to the skin, thus ensuring enhanced residence time and enhanced absorption to maximize the beneficial effects of the natural oil serums. Q3. Why 16 micro-needles on the Mycrolator? A. More microneedles does not equate to a better product; in fact it is counterproductive. You may have read about the man lying on a bed of nails yet despite application of a lot of pressure he seems to be unaffected? However if you reduced those nails down to a few nails dotted around the bed it is unlikely the person would volunteer to sleep on the nails as they would pierce through his back (!). The reason is quite simply that the more nails, the greater the force required, as the weight is distributed amongst the large number of nails. The same holds true for microneedle application to the skin. The Mycrolator has been designed with both ergonomic and aesthetic consideration, as well as ease of use in a very gentle and effective way, allowing a high degree of control and precision of application of the device over delicate regions of the skin. Q4. Can the device and oil serums be used anywhere other than the face? A. Yes. However if the device is used elsewhere on the body it must not subsequently be used on the face, to avoid any contaminants being carried forward. p15
TESTIMONIALS I applied the dry skin oil after Mycrolating for the first time. I was not supposed to get instant results but apart from the instant glow I felt my skin feel softer and tighter within a couple of weeks of use I have had a number of scars from pimples and used the blemished skin oil blend. I have noticed some gradual fading of my scars, but more importantly my skin feels much moister and less dry than it usually is. The device is completely easy to us, it is nice and compact I used the anti-oxidant skin oil. The oils smelt very pleasant and my skin started to feel softer and tighter within days. The device itself felt tingly in a good way! The oils smell lovely and I used the dry skin oil blend. My skin feels tighter and a lot less dry than it normally is. The product is beautifully presented, very simple to use and it s great to know that it s all natural After finishing the treatment, my skin appeared very smooth and plump; this is due to the use of filtered oil serums. I just love the smells and texture. Not greasy at all! The smell of the oils is what attracted me to the products, the feeling afterwards was great! Filtered oil serums are important to me, and the benefits of these natural oils and novel device is clearly evident I used the blemished skin oil, and the tone of my skin has improved. I was scared thinking the oils would be greasy but this is the total opposite! It s great! The presentation of the product is excellent and great value for money Skin was much tighter the following day; I used the Anti-oxidant oil, felt great on my skin and lots of improvement. By the end my skin was much tighter and smoother My skin appeared lighter, I could see the difference after one week. There were also no dry patches the morning after, I used the Dry Skin oil and the smell was amazingly different to the normal serums out there. The device was tingly in a positive way, with a relaxing feeling The oil is filtered which made me think twice; what a great concept! I used the Anti-oxidant oil and my skin improved the following day. Skin now is much softer, smoother, brighter and with fewer wrinkles. The greatness about the device is that there was no discomfort at all p16