Many people might want to get the glowing complexion sported by celebrities, but may often be unaware of the most appropriate way to achieve clear skin. While there might be many factors that contribute to skin health and reduced pore size, we need to understand the root cause of skin problems first rather than going for one treatment or another unthinkingly. After that, an appropriate treatment can be chosen based on your needs and lifestyle.
Dr Chin Yee Choong is the medical director of Dermclear Aesthetic & Laser Clinic. He gave some advice to Human readers about treatments for improving skin appearance. Here's what he had to share about medical aesthetic treatments available in Singapore.
Topical treatments are important for a good skin regimen
Topical liquids and creams can help enhance skin health and produce more effective results as a first-line treatment. These topicals include:
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids,
- L-ascorbic vitamin C,
- and prescription medications such as adapalene (Differin) and tretinoin (Retin-A). [1]
Chemical peels can help refine skin surfaces
Regular superficial chemical peels can be added into your skincare mix, as they can help refine surface texture and ultimately improve overall skin appearance. In addition, whiteheads and blackheads can be reduced. In addition, whiteheads and blackheads can be reduced. Do pair any chemical peel treatment with a regular sun protection routine. [2]
Laser toning is an alternative solution
Laser toning has become increasingly popular in Asia. It helps reduce facial pigmentation, enhance skin glow, and gradually stimulates the formation of new collagen. The procedure can be used for acne scarring among other conditions. Tone, colour, and texture of the skin can be improved. However, laser toning is not recommended more often than every two weeks. [3]
How is laser toning performed?
The procedure involves using a laser to penetrate the dermis, entering deep enough that it breaks apart purplish or brownish pigments left behind by pimples. [3] Numbing gel is typically applied beforehand.
There are several types of lasers that your doctor can select from based on your needs
Laser toning can be performed using the Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm or picosecond 1064 nm lasers. Patients have reported optimal results after using these laser types.
Similarly, fractionated picosecond-lasers (such as 755 nm PicoSure, 1064 nm Picoway, 1064 nm Enlighten) can also work very well and can offer additional benefits such as the reduction of pore sizes and fine lines. [4]
Any aesthetic treatment on the face should be coupled with a sun protection and moisturising routine to keep up the health of your skin. Visit your doctor to get an evaluation of your skin conditions before a treatment plan is customised for you.
Read more: 8 Dermatologist Clinics in Singapore for Your Skin Concerns (2020)
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References:
_1. Van Scott EJ, Yu RJ. Hyperkeratinization, corneocyte cohesion, and alpha hydroxy acids. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 1984;11(5):867-879. doi:10.1016/s0190-9622(84)80466-1
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_2. Rendon MI, Berson DS, Cohen JL, Roberts WE, Starker I, Wang B. Evidence and considerations in the application of chemical peels in skin disorders and aesthetic resurfacing. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology. 2010;3(7):32-43. Accessed May 16, 2019.
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_3. Fractional Laser Treatment for Pigmentation and Texture Improvement. Skin Therapy Letter. Published September 21, 2018. Accessed May 16, 2019.
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_4. Chan NPY, Ho SGY, Shek SYN, Yeung CK, Chan HH. A case series of facial depigmentation associated with low fluence q-switched 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser for skin rejuvenation and melasma. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2010;42(8):712-719. doi:10.1002/lsm.20956
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