Ever thought of going beyond employing sheep to catch a good night’s sleepIJ It can give you a good day’s skin too

Mothers down the ages have told their children to count sheep when they close their eyes at night to get sleep. Now, women the world over are using sheep in another bizarre way that’s apparently as effective. Sheep placenta is the newest beauty treatment on the block — a medical facial that gives deep hydration and a complete rejuvenation. A big hit with A-listers like Kim Kardashian and Victoria Beckham, this routine takes over an hour and is now gaining popularity in India.

How it works

The skin is first primed with a choice of treatments and then the sheep placenta extracts  are applied to the area. The facial starts with a thorough cleansing followed by surface exfoliation after which the skin is gently polished using fine crystals. Sometimes, a chemical peel may  also be needed to prepare the skin for the application of the luxuriously hydrating mask. The sheep placenta stem cell concentrate is  infused in the skin with the help of a massaging  or light device. It is followed by application of

a placenta extract mask. The facial leaves the  skin hydrated and smoother with a healthy, youthful glow.

Who needs it

Practically anyone who needs a skin rejuvenation. It’s good for dull, uneven complexions. However,  it also has benefits for skin that is prone to  more serious skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis or acne. Older, sun-damaged or over-exfoliated skin sees good results. It can even help in collagen regeneration. Since it is natural, it can be done once a month. A single session can give an instant glow and visible results. However for long-term results, especially as a curative procedure, six would be required.

Care and cure

Research shows no significant side effects. However, the treatment is new, so caution needs to be maintained with after-facial care — a

good sunscreen, moisturiser and night serum must be used. Do follow the instructions of the dermatologist. Also, if the treatment is recommended by a doctor, make sure to clear all your doubts beforehand.

science behind it

Sheep placenta facials have stem cells and  several other nutrients that have powerful anti-ageing properties. The core ingredient  vis rich in proteins, amino acids, essential  minerals and enzymes as well as growth factors and anti-oxidants which are the life force of cells.

Placenta is an effective skin-firmer,

lifter and hydrator. Since sheep placenta promotes collagen production, it increases  skin elasticity. A survey conducted this year  found that 80 per cent women aged 30 and over

preferred a placenta-derived face mask as an anti-ageing solution.

— Courtesy: Dr Reema Arora, Facial Aesthetic, Cocoona Centre for Asthetic Transformation