When it comes to skin, we all have a story. I’ve always struggled with freckles, melasma, and pigmentation that seem to steal the spotlight every time I look in the mirror. We all know how important sunlight is for producing Vitamin D, and honestly, who doesn’t love that “sun-kissed” look? Well… me, actually.
I melt in the harsh South African summers. Heat and I have never been friends. The moment my skin even sees sunlight, I’ve got ten new freckles competing for space on my face!
Add in a layer of sensitivity that sometimes makes my skin feel reactive and unpredictable, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for frustration. It took me years, for example, to find an SPF that didn’t make my face look like I’d gone a few rounds with Mike Tyson. Red, swollen, and painfully inflamed. One wrong product and I’d be on my way to the doctor for cortisone injections and a strong cortisone cream to calm everything down again. We will dive deeper into this with the next blog post!
But here’s the exciting part: I’ve just started a new chapter in my skincare journey with my friend Monique at Hart Skin and Body Studio in Stellenbosch, and we’re utilising some of the most advanced technology available to bring my skin back to balance and radiance.
We’ve begun treatments with the Arctic Blaze Diode + BBL Laser. This system is like the star performer of the skincare world:
Arctic Blaze Diode: Fast, comfortable, and highly effective hair removal across all skin types (with clinical tests showing over 80% permanent reduction after just 3 – 5 sessions).
BroadBand Light (BBL): Precision work on pigmentation, freckles, vascular concerns, and overall skin rejuvenation.
What Can BBL Laser Do for Your Skin?
BBL isn’t just for one concern; it’s a precision tool for a wide range of skin issues. It can help with:
- Acne & Acne Scars – reduces breakouts and smooths texture.
- Pigmentation & Freckles – evens out skin tone, fades sun spots, age spots, and melasma.
- Redness & Vascular Issues – minimises broken capillaries, rosacea, and general redness.
- Fine Lines & Wrinkles – stimulates collagen for smoother, firmer skin.
- Overall Skin Rejuvenation – improves tone, texture, and radiance for a youthful glow.
With BBL, you can address multiple skin concerns simultaneously, whether on your face, neck, chest, hands, or even your back.
And here’s what really blew me away: the cooling system actually drops to 0°C within one minute and stays consistent even during long sessions. Not once did I feel any discomfort. You only feel the slightest warmth on your skin with each “laser shot,” but honestly, it’s more like wrapping yourself in your favourite fluffy blanket on a cold winter’s day. There’s no sting, no pain, none of that harsh sensation you sometimes get with other treatments.
We’re focusing on three main areas for me:
- Pigmentation & Melasma: Even out my skin tone and soften patches.
- Freckles: Lightening those sun-kissed dots so they don’t overpower my complexion.
- Sensitivity: Working deeper to calm my skin so it feels stronger and less reactive.
To track my progress, we started with a full Skin Analyser session. And here’s the moment that truly made my day: she looked at me with a little smile and asked, “Do you want to know your skin age?” My heart dropped. I was bracing myself for the worst. But then she said, “32.” I almost fell off the chair! Considering I’ll be turning 51 in just two months, “feeling happy” doesn’t even come close. (Note to self: this is not a photoshoot fit for a Vogue cover, so don’t get a fright when you see them at first!)
The best part? I get to do this journey with someone I trust. I know without a doubt that I’m in the best hands. Monique’s skill and knowledge (she was at the top of her class), combined with the professional care at Hart Skin and Body Studio, make me feel completely supported and cared for.
This is just the beginning for me, so stay tuned for updates, photos, and real results as I share the ups, downs, and glow-ups along the way.
Ready to Start Your Own Glow Journey?
If you’re curious about the treatments, or if pigmentation, freckles, sensitivity or any other skin concern are part of your own skin story, I highly recommend connecting with Monique. I’m dropping her contact details below so you can reach out and start your own journey. From the advanced Arctic Blaze Diode + BBL laser to the personal, heart-centred care, this is where science meets soul.
Find Hart Skin and Body Studio – Monique Cloete
📍Woodmill Centre, Vredenburg Road, Stellenbosch, Shop 6C
📞 +27 67 300 2916
📱 Follow on Facebook: http://facebook.com/hartskinandbody
📱 Follow on Instagram: http://instagram.com/hartskinandbodysalon
RESOURCE MATERIAL
Curious about the technology behind the Arctic Blaze Diode + BBL laser? You are welcome to contact Monique, and she will gladly send you the official 2025 catalogue from Premier Lasers.
The Lounge Philosopher 