SCITON PROFILE SYSTEM

What causes acne

Due to an imbalance in the production of sebum in the skin, our glands can get clogged, leading to inflammation and infection, a condition known as acne or pimples. Acne progresses through various stages. It can start with open or closed comedones (black heads or white heads), leading to pustules and in the worst case scenario, big boils that are medically classified as nodules or cysts. If nothing is done to stop this cycle of infection and injury to the skin, permanent scarring will result.

Treating acne

Although there are many products available today over-the-counter, not every product is effective or suitable for your acne condition. As acne progresses, permanent scars may result. Hence, the importance of seeing a doctor early if your acne fails to respond to your own remedies. In our clinic, treatment of acne begins with accurately staging the condition. For very mild acne comprising comedones, our doctor may suggest undergoing our signature steaming and microdermabrasion facial, which will effectively exfoliate the outer dull skin and treat comedones. Effective acne treatment entails using a combination of antibiotics to eradicate infection, good quality cleansers and topical creams to control sebum production or oily skin. In addition, our signature TCA chemical peel is a very effective way to exfoliate the outer skin, thereby unclogging pores and stimulating the recovery process.

Sciton Blue Light for Acne

The Sciton blue light treatment for mild to moderate acne is another modality that patients like. The blue light targets the acne-causing bacteria to effectively reduce infection on the skin. At the same time, the oil glands that produce sebum are also controlled, making the face less oily. It takes 15 minutes for each treatment and patients return weekly to twice-weekly for 4 to 8 sessions. There is no pain or downtime with this treatment. This can speed up the resolution of acne by up to 3 times compared with conventional treatment regimes. Be assured that you will look and feel an improvement to your skin in no time at all.

Acne Scars Laser Resurfacing Treatment

We firmly believe that prevention of scarring is definitely better than cure. Unfortunately, acne scars is a very common and frustrating condition for many. It is often a painful reminder of our past problematic skin and draws unwanted attention. “The active acne may have been long gone, but the scars just won’t go away”. There are a few types of acne scars commonly encountered in our clinic. They are namely:

• ice-pick scars: deep, narrow scars which form pits in the skin. They are the most common
• boxed or boxcar scars: angular, well-defined edges usually on the temples or cheeks. Boxed scars resemble chickenpox scars
• rolled: wave-like pattern
• hypertrophic scars: raised scars protruding out of the skin, like keloids or "BCG" scars

Using the Sciton laser skin resurfacing mode and our fractional eCO2 laser, we are able to achieve visible results, sometimes after a single session. The laser is able to smoothen out old scars and stimulate the process of collagen renewal. We find that laser resurfacing treats not only acne scars, but the collagen renewal process benefits "normal" parts of skin as well. Patients report that there is noticeable tightening of skin after the laser treatment. So they benefit from smoother, more radiant and tightened skin.

Is laser acne scars treatment suitable for all skin types?

Over the years, we have devised tried and tested protocols for every skin type. There is rarely a patient who is not suitable for acne scars laser treatment.

Is the treatment painful?

An effective numbing cream is applied for 30 minutes before the laser treatment. As the skin is sufficently numbed, this treatment is not painful. Our patients liken the experience to a mild heating sensation and very slight discomfort. It is highly tolerable for most patients.

Is there any downtime for this treatment?

In order for acne scars to be effectively treated, the laser has to penetrate to the appropriate depth. There will be a recovery time of 3 to 5 days. During this period, the treated area will appear reddish and there will be mild skin peeling. Light make-up can help to improve the temporary recovery that skin undergoes.

Should I avoid any activities after the treatment?

It is important to avoid excessive sunlight exposure as the new skin is vulnerable to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. We also advice no strenuous exercise for the first 3 days post-treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

Depending on the condition of the scars and skin type, most patients will benefit from 4 to 6 sessions of laser acne treatment. These treatments are usually spaced 6 weeks apart.

If you find your self-esteem or image is troubled by deep-seated scars, we may have just the answer to your concerns. Make an appointment today and see how the Sciton resurfacing treatment will make a more confident and beautiful you.

Call 6346-7752 to speak to us about your concerns today

*Due to strict MOH guidelines in Singapore, accredited medical clinics are not allowed to show before and after photos on websites and marketing materials. We apologize for that. We would be delighted to showcase our photographs and actual results during the consultation in our clinic.