What To Know About​​​​​​​ Laser Treatments

Dr Vanessa Phua, who is based at The Chelsea Clinic in Singapore, used to be an ophthalmologist performing complicated eye surgery. But for the past 14 years, she’s been applying her gift of precision to aesthetic laser skin treatments. She shares with us what the new ones are, the right time to do them – and if anyone will be able to tell.

- Lynnett Yip

WHAT DOES A LASER TREATMENT DO?

“Lasers generate invisible light energy that can span hundreds to thousands of nanometres (a nanometre is one billionth of a metre). Lasers can treat a variety of skin problems, from acne, rosacea, eczema and hyperpigmentation to skinrenewal concerns and even  hair and tattoo removal. There’s no such thing as one-laser-fits-all. I adjust the laser wavelengths based on the patient’s skin condition – the longer the wavelength, the deeper the laser penetration into skin.”

WHAT’S AN ASIAN-SKINFRIENDLY LASER?

“The Enlighten Picosecond is more suitable for Asian skin because it prevents hyperpigmentation from coming back. It’s a green laser emitting low energy, which makes it more protective. It won’t injure the surrounding skin. So it’s safer for those with deeper skin tones who are more likely to suffer burns from traditional laser machines, which target the entire face instead of areas with pigmentation problems.”

IS LASER TREATMENT A GOOD INTRO TO AESTHETIC TREATMENTS?

“It’s a good start as it can work on all skin concerns. There are two categories of lasers. Non-ablative lasers – such as ND:YAG, Enlighten Picosecond, and Dual Yellow Copper Bromide – are more commonly used on younger skin to even out skin tone, smooth roughness, treat acne scars, enlarged pores and superficial pigmentation, and reduce fine lines. Ablative lasers – such as those used in fractional skin resurfacing – are suitable for people in their late 40s and beyond who require more skin tightening and lifting, and want to treat deep wrinkles.”

WHEN CAN ONE START USING LASER TREATMENTS?