*Disclaimer: This is not a paid review. The treatment was provided, though the review thereof is based on the author’s experience and opinion. Reviews published on Aesthetic Appointment are intended to be for information purposes only, and should not be regarded as a replacement for sound medical advice. Always speak to your doctor or skincare therapist if you have any concerns.*
Stepping into RE Aesthetica, I was immediately struck by the serene, intimate atmosphere. The clinic’s décor is nothing short of luxurious, with every detail meticulously curated to create an environment of elegance and tranquillity. Whether you’re a man or woman, this is a place where you feel both pampered and understood. What truly makes this space exceptional, however, is the vision behind it – Dena-Lee Chiotti, the founder of RE Aesthetica.
Dena-Lee’s journey into the aesthetics world is a story of passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her clients’ well-being. With a background in corporate management and having spent years immersing herself in the latest aesthetic technologies, Dena-Lee has cultivated a reputation for bringing cutting-edge treatments to Johannesburg. Her clinic is more than just a space for treatments; it’s a sanctuary designed to provide patients with a holistic approach to beauty and rejuvenation. She has always been a firm believer in the power of self-care and has carefully selected each treatment at RE Aesthetica to ensure that clients leave feeling refreshed, revitalised, and confident.
One of the standout features of RE Aesthetica is their comprehensive offering of BTL Exion™ treatments, a cutting-edge solution that harnesses the power of AI.
BTL Exion™ at RE Aesthetica includes:
- Exion™ RF microneedling: skin rejuvenation for the face and neck (and even stretch marks and scars on the body)
- Exion™ Face: anti-ageing/skin tightening (boosts your own hyaluronic acid and collagen naturally)
- Exion™ Body: Body contouring (skin laxity and centimetre loss)
- Emfemme 360®: vaginal rejuvenation, which treats dryness and sexual dysfunction and improves overall vaginal health.
- And recently added Exion™ Clear RF: microablation for pigmentation, age and sun spots.
The machine’s unique AI technology is truly what sets it apart. It offers a range of applications that treat not just the face, but also the body and intimate areas. The intimate rejuvenation treatment, which takes just 8 minutes, is entirely painless – a testament to how advanced this technology is.
My BTL Exion™ treatment experience: RF microneedling
Dena-Lee had thoughtfully advised me to drink plenty of water the day before my treatment, as hydration is key to getting the best results.
My treatment was led by Michelle, my lovely somatologist, who began by applying a patch that acts as a “Wi-Fi transmitter” to monitor my hydration levels throughout the session. This ensures that the machine delivers the most effective results, adapting to your body’s specific needs.
The machine’s AI not only tracked this but also guided Michelle in real time, ensuring the depth and angle of the RF microneedling remained precise. The handpiece shows red if not placed correctly and blue when accurately positioned. It was fascinating to watch technology and human expertise come together so seamlessly.
We started with a double cleanse, followed by the application of numbing cream for 15 minutes. After removing the cream, the treatment began. To my surprise, it was not painful at all, though I did experience some sensitivity around the nose and mouth. The neck and cheeks, however, were a breeze.
First session
My first session included RF microneedling on my entire face, including the delicate under-eye area, brow bone, and neck, which are notoriously difficult areas to treat. The combination of radio frequency and microneedling helps address fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, and scarring while also improving luminosity.
BTL Exion™ recommends three sessions for optimal results, followed by maintenance treatments every six months to a year depending on one’s skin health and age.
Second and third sessions
The second and third sessions included the same RF microneedling treatment.
But for a bit of fun, on my second visit, I tried out the lip plumping using the Exion™ Face applicator (RF with no needling). This quick session felt more like a warm, slight tingling sensation rather than discomfort with no downtime. A similar sensation to those lip-plumping glosses that make your lips tingle.
The treatment helps to boost your own body’s hyaluronic acid production, which is perfect for addressing lip lines, smoker’s lines, and wrinkles around the mouth.
Michelle applied conductive gel before using the applicator, and I noticed a slight plumping effect afterwards. It’s a brilliant non-invasive option, requiring 4–6 sessions spaced a week apart.
Better yet, RE Aesthetica offers individual areas to make treatments more accessible to patients – e.g. you can book just your lips at R500 per session or just your under-eye area at R600 per session.
Healing
By the third RF microneedling session, my skin was already showing significant improvements in texture and radiance. The healing process was straightforward, with little to no downtime after each session. My skin was red immediately after, with some visible track marks. But to my surprise, these reduced within minutes.
My skin felt a bit rough on the first day post-treatment with some minor swelling but, by day two, it started to feel smoother and softer. By day seven, my skin felt healthier and more luminous.
Post-treatment care
After each session, I followed a simple but effective healing protocol: gentle cleansing using Avene’s Cicalfate+ gentle cleanser, applying La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume at night and the SPF 50 in the morning, and using Clinisept Hypochlorous Acid spray for its antimicrobial and cooling properties. I avoided active skincare and makeup during this time, allowing my skin to heal and breathe. The Dr Schrammek Blemish Balm in the shade Honey worked wonderfully post-procedure, as it provided gentle coverage while promoting healing.
I gradually reintroduced active skincare products at least two weeks following the final treatment.
Following your therapist’s post-procedure guidance is key to achieving optimal healing and the best possible results.
Results
By week two post-treatment, I started noticing more visible improvements, with exceptional results appearing around week six. The fine lines around my eyes reduced significantly, and my skin looked smoother, tighter, and more radiant overall.
The skin around my forehead, cheeks, and neck felt firmer, and I’ve received compliments on how refreshed and lifted my skin is looking.
It’s been a lovely experience achieving such natural-looking, beautiful results that will only continue to improve over time as my collagen and elastin production continues to increase as a result of the treatments.
