Acne Laser Therapy

Acne & Scar Treatment in Singapore

Acne is a common skin condition that can be effectively treated or controlled in most cases. It usually appears on the face but can also affect the neck and back.

Causes of Acne

Acne is caused by a blockage of the small oil glands (sebaceous glands) beneath the skin’s surface. These glands produce oil (sebum) to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. The pores on our skin act as channels to allow the oil to reach the surface. However, factors like genetics, hormonal changes, or excessive oil production can lead to clogged pores. A resulting inflammation of clogged pores leads to what is commonly known as a pimple. The severity of acne can differ from person to person.

Types of Acne

Acne can take different forms, including:

Any form of acne can negatively impact self-esteem. Seeking help from a healthcare provider early on is recommended to determine the best treatment options.

Post-Acne Effects

Although inflamed spots eventually heal, the skin area affected may be left with a scar. There are two main types of acne scars:

Pigmented scars – appear as a discolouration which can be red (post-inflammatory erythema) or brown (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). These can last for weeks to months but usually fade with time.

Textural scars – sometimes, the wound healing process after acne may not be complete and we can be left with a depressed scar on the skin surface. These scars may not fade completely without treatment and can last for a long time.

Aesthetic Treatments For Acne

Apart from topical and oral treatments, aesthetic alternatives can be considered:

Hydrafacial: A gentler way to clean out the pores, the Hydrafacial uses water pressure and specially selected acids to thoroughly cleanse the skin, removing dead skin cells and sebum without the trauma associated with physical extractions.

Chemical Peels: Various chemical peels, such as salicylic acid peels, can unclog pores, erode blackheads, and fade post-pimple marks.

Lasers: Laser treatment, performed by a doctor, can help prevent and treat acne. It works by targeting bacteria and reducing sebum production. Additionally, lasers have anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing acne symptoms.

Laser Treatments For Acne

Targeted solutions are required for different skin needs. You may require a combination of laser treatments including:

Pico Laser– Removes stubborn pigmentation, acne scars, melasma, freckles, and more. It also brightens the skin, stimulates collagen growth and reduces the appearance of textural acne scars, enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Long-Pulse Laser – Non-invasive procedure using laser heat to smooth the skin, reduce fine lines, dark spots, pigmentation from acne scars, and inflammation.
Carbon Laser Peel – Treats acne by eliminating oil, debris, and bacteria in pores, preventing new breakouts. Can improve signs of premature aging, dull complexion, fine lines, and mild acne scars.
Q-Switch Laser – For difficult-to-treat blemishes and pigmented lesions caused by conditions like acne, melasma, and rosacea.
Gold Toning – Targets and dissipates red areas on the skin caused by active acne or red scars.
IPL– Targets acne-causing bacteria and reduces blood flow to sebaceous glands, leading to reduced inflammation and prevention of scarring.
Yellow Laser – Targets redness caused by inflammation and reduces the appearance of post-inflammatory erythema
Acne Away – Reduces inflammation in active breakouts for faster healing.
FRAX Skin Resurfacing – Improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of depressed acne scars

These laser and light-based treatments offer effective options for acne and scar reduction and are suitable for various skin types.

Quantitative Analysis & Visual Assessment with VISIA

Before undergoing acne or scar removal treatment, you will have a thorough consultation to create a personalized plan based on your VISIA results, assessment of the treatment area, and medical history. The VISIA is a comprehensive system that captures precise images to track progress over time. With its multi-point positioning system and live image overlay, it provides an accurate assessment of your skin condition, revealing details that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Laser Treatments Work For Acne Scars?

Yes, laser treatments help to reduce the appearance of acne scars. You may require a few treatments to see the desired results, this depends on the severity of the scarring and will be explained in the consultation with our doctors. Deeper or more extensive scars will typically require more treatments to see a good improvement.

Is Laser Treatment For Acne Scars Permanent?

The improvement seen with your acne scars is permanent. However, acne can reappear and result in new scars in the future. Therefore, it is essential to adopt a maintenance routine even after your active blemishes have cleared to reduce the chance of recurrence. A maintenance routine is very personal to each individual’s unique condition. Our doctors will provide individualised, detailed plans during your consultation.

When Will I See Improvement In My Acne Or Acne Scars?

Regardless of the treatment used, it typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to see visible improvement to active acne. However, it can take up to 6 months or longer to achieve significant results and for the skin to be generally free of blemishes or pigmentation. Acne scars require multiple treatments and often takes a few months to see visible improvement.

What Can I Do To Maintain My Results?

Once the active acne has been treated, we usually recommend keeping up with a good skincare routine to maintain general skin health. Daily sun protection and avoiding harsh sunlight will also reduce your chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.