Cosmetic services

Rosacea is a common chronic condition that affects the central face in middle-aged people. It often causes red or yellow pus-filled spots, persistent redness, itchy eyes, and/or a bumpy enlarged nose.

FAQs

What causes Rosacea?

We are unaware of what exactly causes this condition but exposure to extremes in temperature, exercise, hot drinks, spicy food, alcohol and stress can sometimes trigger rosacea to develop.

How do we treat Rosacea? 

• Topical creams or gels can be prescribed for 8 to 12 weeks
• Oral antibiotics for 3-6 months can treat rosacea-related spots.
• Laser treatment can be used to treat the vessels that cause the redness or reduce an enlarged nose. Multiple sessions may be required

What are the side effects of treatment?
This will be discussed in detail during your consultation depending on the treatment chosen

Dermatologists often perform an injection of a toxin called Botulinum Toxin A, which is sterile and vacuum-dried into a purified form and derived from Clostridium Botulinum Bacterium. These injections act by paralysing the muscles and, therefore, smoothing the appearance of wrinkles. There are many different brands of these.

FAQs

How are wrinkles formed?

Wrinkles eventually form on the skin as a result of a number of reasons, including genetics, hormonal changes and environmental factors. These factors result in structural and functional deterioration of the skin, which is often a sign of ageing. Essentially, the elastic fibres and collagen in the skin degenerate, which causes the skin to lose its elasticity and firmness.

How does Botox work?

The release of a neurotransmitter, called acetylcholine, between the muscle and the nerve causes temporary weakness of the muscle which results in wrinkles over time. Botox prevents the release of a neurotransmitter, therefore reducing wrinkles.

Is Botox licensed for cosmetic use?

The treatment of wrinkles between the eyebrows was approved by The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002. Although treatment of other areas is not licensed, it has been performed for many years with the support of good evidence.

What improvement will I see and how long will the results last?

Botox improves the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, which are wrinkles caused by movement. Botox does not treat static wrinkles, however with repeated treatments they can soften over time too.

Results are usually seen within 2-3 days and reach optimum around 1-2 weeks post-injections. Results usually last around 3-6 months, after which the injections can easily be repeated.

Which areas can be treated?

• Frown lines – Forehead lines
• Glabellar lines – between the eyebrows
• Crows feet – outer corner of the eyes
• Bunny lines – upper part of the nose,from scrunching up the nose
• Gummy smile – visible gum during smiling
• Smokers lines – around the lips
• DAO – corners of the mouth
• Chin/Mentalis – chin crease
• Slimming of lower face/Masseter – part of cheek in front and below the ears
• Neck – platysmal bands (vertical lines on the neck)
• Neck – horizontal lines
• Jaw contouring (nefertiti lift)
• Axillary hyperhidrosis (underarm sweating)

When should Botox not be administered?

During your consultation, we will discuss the treatment in full detail and examine personal risk.

You cannot have Botox if: 

• you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to conceive
• you have a neuromuscular disorder
• you are taking muscle relaxants
• you are allergic to Botox or human albumin
• there is infection around the treatment area
• within 3 months of previous Botox injections
• within 2 weeks of other cosmetic treatments, such as chemical peels or laser.

What is the ideal timing for Botox injections prior to a special event?

We recommend receiving injections 4 weeks before a special event, so that the results are natural.

What is the procedure?

In your consultation, your dermatologist will conduct a detailed assessment of your skin and discuss your treatment options and their associated risks with you. If Botox is deemed safe and appropriate, written information will be provided to you. We do require written consent and take before & after photographs (with your permission).

During the procedure, the relevant muscles are injected with a fine needle, which causes mild discomfort. Although no anesthesia is used, we perform measures to minimise pain.

drooping of the eyelid, blurred vision, headaches and dizziness.

What is the aftercare advice?

There is no downtime with Botox injections, and you can return to work or go home immediately after the procedure.

• However, we do recommend:
• Remaining upright for 4 hours to prevent diffusion
• Avoiding makeup for 6 hours
• Avoiding any massages, facials, saunas, steam rooms and sunbeds for 48 hours.
• Being careful when washing your face.

What are the side effects?

The most common side effects of botox include pain, swelling, bruising and redness around the injection site. Very rarely these side effects might be asymmetrical, in which case, we can correct this during a touch up session that will be free of charge.

Rare side effects include drooping of the eyelid, blurred vision, headaches and dizziness.

Acne is a very common condition that, mainly, affects teenagers and adults. This condition usually presents as blackheads, whiteheads, pus-filled spots (pustules), lumps (nodules) and cysts, with scarring and pigmentation. The condition tends to affect the face, neck, chest and back.

FAQs

 What causes acne? 

Excess oil production from the oil (sebaceous) glands and dead skin can sometimes clog the hair follicles. This causes bacteria (Propionibacterium Acnes) to proliferate which causes Acne.

This can be discussed in detail during your consultation depending on the treatment chosen

 How can acne be treated? 

An initial consultation is required for assessing the severity of your acne.
There are 2 stages of treatment: 

1. Medical treatment: involves treating the inflammatory lesions. It is important to note that early treatment can help to prevent scarring and treatment can take over 6 months to get acne under control.

          Some medications may require blood tests.

• • Creams or gels
  • Oral antibiotics
  • Spironolactone
  • Isotretinoin/Roaccutane

2. Physical treatment: involves treating pigmentation and scarring caused by acne.

Specialist creams or Chemical Peels can be started during or after receiving medical treatment for acne. Laser resurfacing can be offered to patients following the completion of medical treatment. It is important to note that multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimum results.
Acne in skin of colour patients can leave dark marks of pigmentation.  Our Consultant Dermatologist has undergone specialist training to provide cutting edge treatment for pigmentation occurring in all skin types, including the skin of colour.

What are the side effects of treatment?
This will be discussed in detail during your consultation depending on the treatment chosen

Dermal fillers are injected to fill out any hollow areas under the eyes, to lift the cheeks, to re-shape and add volume to the lips. The main purpose of dermal fillers is to make the skin appear younger and fresher.
The hyaluronic acid found in fillers is a sterile and biodegradable derivative of Streptococcus Equi Bacteria. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found on the skin and plumps the skin to create a younger look.

FAQs

How do fillers work?

Dermal fillers integrate into the skin, attract water and add volume to the injected area. Fillers also soften wrinkles and create a youthful appearance.

How long until I see results?

Results vary from person to person and should be visible immediately. Results tend to last between 6-12 months, depending on the type of filler, the area injected and your age and genetics.

When should fillers not be administered?

The most common reasons are:

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to conceive
• If you are allergic to lidocaine, hyaluronic acid or bee stings
• If there is an infection around the area to be treated
• If there is a skin disease in the treatment area or you have an autoimmune disease
• Within 2 weeks of other cosmetic treatments, such as chemical peels, or laser

What is the ideal timing for fillers prior to a special event?

We recommend having injections at least 6 weeks before a special event, so that the results are natural, there is time for any bruising to settle down and time for a touch up if necessary.

What are the steps to be taken before the procedure?

We recommend to stop any blood thinning medications or supplements such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Gingko biloba, garlic capsules (that are taken for non-medical reasons) and alcohol 2 days before and after the procedure to reduce bruising.

What is the procedure?

In your consultation, your dermatologist will conduct a detailed assessment of your skin and discuss your treatment options and their associated risks with you. If Botox is deemed safe and appropriate, written information will be provided to you. We do require written consent and take before & after photographs (with your permission).

During the procedure, the relevant area/s are injected with a fine needle of cannula. The product itself contains local anaesthetic therefore most people experience only mild discomfort. A topical anaesthetic can also be applied to the affected area around 20-30 minutes before the procedure, especially for sensitive areas such as in or around the lips or nose.

What is the aftercare advice?

• Avoid touching the treatment area for 6 hours after the procedure.
• Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours
• Avoid any massages, facials, saunas, steam rooms and sunbeds for 48 hours.
• Be careful when washing your face.

What are the side effects?

Common side effects include redness, swelling or bruising at the injection site. They settle within a few hours to a few days. Rarer side effects include infections, granuloma formation (lumps), skin necrosis (blockage of blood vessels by fillers). We will discuss in detail how to recognise them during the consultation.
A very rare but serious side effect is blindness.

Chemical peels are formed from a combination of acids such as Salicylic, Madeline, glycolic acid, and/or depigmenting agents such as Retinol, Kojic acid and Vitamin C. Chemical Peels are designed to improve skin texture, the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation

FAQs

How do chemical peels work?

Chemical peels exfoliate the top layers of the skin, which will cause the formation of a new skin layer with improved texture, surface and void of any pigment abnormalities. Depending on the strength of the peel, they are classified into three types; Superficial, Medium or Deep and each type indicates the depth of the skin layers that will be removed.

Which areas and conditions can be treated using a Chemical Peel ?

Areas that can be treated include:

• Face
• Neck and décolletage
• Hands
• Arms or other parts of the body

Skin conditions can be treated using a Chemical Peel ?

• Skin rejuvenation (uneven, rough, dull skin, wrinkles)
• Enlarged pores
• Pigmentation
• Age spots
• Acne and acne scarring

What improvement will I see and how long will the results last?

Chemical Peels are designed to encourage brighter, smoother skin with a more even skin tone. They can reduce fine lines, open pores, lighten pigmentation and improve acne or acne scarring.

When should chemical peels not be done?

The most common reasons are:

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to conceive
• If you allergic to any of the ingredients
• If there is infection around the area to be treated
• f there is a skin disease in the treatment area or you have an toimmunedisease
• If you are taking any medications that suppress your immune system
• Within 2-4 weeks of other cosmetic treatments, such as laser treatment
• Within 6 months of Isotretinoin

What is the ideal timing for peels prior to a special event?

We recommend at least 2-4 weeks prior to the special event, depending on the strength of the chemical peel.

What steps should be taken before the procedure?

All steps and risks will be discussed with you in full detail during your initial consultation. Unless you are having a superficial chemical peel, the skin should be prepared with prescription skin care products and sunscreen, for many weeks.

How many treatments are required?

Superficial Peels: 3-6 treatments are required every 4-6 weeks
Deeper Peels: 1 or 2 treatments

Is it safe for darker skin types to have a Chemical Peel?
Certain peels are safe for darker skin types. This will be discussed in your initial consultation.

What is the procedure?
Initially your skin will be cleaned and degreased. The chemical peel solution is applied and left on your skin for 5-20 minutes, depending on the type of peel. It is common to feel a tingling or hot sensation on your skin, which can cause discomfort. At the end of your treatment, the peel is neutralised and the sensation will decrease.

How does the skin look after a peel and how long is the downtime?
The downtime from a chemical peel can range between 1-4 weeks, depending on the strength of the peel.
For very superficial peels, there is mild skin flaking but no downtime. The skin may look red immediately after the treatment and usually tends to flake on day 3 onwards for about 5-7 days. If deeper peels are used the flaking can last for longer and it is advised to stay indoors to prevent risk of infection and for protection against the sunlight.

What is the aftercare advice?

• Avoid washing the face and makeup for 24 hours
• Apply bland emollients and sunscreens regularly until the skin is healed
• Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours
• Avoid massages, saunas, steam rooms and sunbeds for 3 days
• Avoid harsh products and scrubs for 3 days
• No facials for 1 week
• No other cosmetic procedure for 2-4 weeks depending on strength of peel

 What are the risks?

Uncommon risks include:

• Swelling,
• Persistent redness,
• Infections,
• Pigmentation
• Scarring

Laser treatment involves using a machine that emits an amplified and single colour source of light that targets different components in the skin for specific results.

FAQs

How does laser work?

Different lasers have different wavelengths that target skin differently.  Essentially, a CO2 laser delivers light that creates many tiny holes in the surface of the skin. The healthy skin surrounding the tiny holes stimulates accelerated collagen production, thereby promoting healing with firmer smooth skin.
Some lasers target pigment and vessels in skin and selectively destroy them.

What skin conditions can laser treatment help?

• Skin rejuvenation
• Acne scars
• Pigmentation
• Facial redness
• Blemishes and Seborrhoeic Keratosis
• Birthmarks
• Rhinophyma

How many treatments will I need?

Treatment can depend upon the type of laser, condition and depth of treatment. Usually 2-4 treatments may be necessary at intervals of 6 weeks.

How long does treatment take?I
Including the pre and post care, it can take around 2 hours. Although, the actual laser treatment is usually 20-30 mins depending on the treatment surface area.

When should laser not be performed?
The most common reasons are:

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to conceive
• If there is infection around the area to be treated
• If there is a skin disease in the treatment area or you have an autoimmundisease
• If you are taking medications that suppress your immune system
• If you are attending a special event within 2 weeks
• Within 2-4 weeks of other cosmetic treatments
• Within 6 months of isotretinoin
• If you are on photosensitizing medications

What is the pre procedure advice?

• Stop using Retin-A or any retinol-type products at least a week prior to your
• Avoid using exfoliating products for the week before your treatment.

Minimise sun exposure and avoid the use of tanning beds or any application o self-tanning products for one month prior to your treatment.

What is the procedure?
Initially, the laser is tested on a patch of your skin before the first treatment and every time the laser setting is changed. If there is no adverse skin reaction after one month, then the affected area can be treated. The skin is cleansed and protective equipment is supplied, such as goggles to protect your eyes. A topical anesthetic can sometimes be applied to the skin, depending on the intensity of the laser. The laser beam is then directed at the affected area.

Depending on your individual pain threshold, you may feel a slight stinging sensation from laser treatment.

What is the reaction and downtime after the procedure?
Immediately following your treatment, your skin may feel hot and appear red or swollen. Redness and swelling can last for a few days, after which ‘micro-crust’ will form, giving a bronzed appearance to the affected skin area. Downtime can vary between 4-14 days, depending upon the density of treatment.

What is the aftercare?
You may wish to take a few days off of work, depending on the density of treatment.

We also advice: 

• avoiding make-up application for a few days following treatment.
• avoiding prolonged sun exposure and applying sunscreens minimum SPF 50 regularly throughout the day, even in winter.
• purchasing a brand new Vaseline and applying it to the affected area 3-4 times a day.
• washing your face with a mild facial cleanser.
• not picking crusty skin.
• avoiding strenuous exercise, bending, straining, stooping or lifting heavy objectsfor 1 week following the procedure.

When is improvement seen and how long does it last?
Most people notice visible improvement within 7 days of treatment and experience progressive benefits for at least six months.

What are the risks?

• All risks will be discussed in detail during your initial consultation.
• Risks can include burning, pigmentation and scarring.

Hair loss is broadly called alopecia and there are causes that require specialist assessment and treatment.

You may notice one of the following patterns of hair loss: 

• Diffuse (generalised thinning of the hair),
• Hair shedding (hair left on pillows or clothes)
• Localised (separate bald patches)
• Receding hairline (hairline moving back at the temples or the forehead).

Hair loss is broadly divided into non-scarring and scarring alopecia. Scarring alopecia refers to the irreversible destruction of the hair follicles, which means that lost hair cannot be restored. To prevent this, early assessment and treatment is essential.

FAQs

What is the cause of alopecia? 

Alopecia can be a result of stress, illness, nutritional deficiencies, the immune system attacking the hair follicles, genetics or fungal infections.

What are the common forms of alopecia? 

Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is hair shedding that causes thinning hair all over the scalp. This form of alopecia can occur rapidly following illness, post child birth, or after a stressful event. It can also occur progressively following nutritional deficiencies or a long term illness.
Patterned Hair Loss or Androgenetic Alopecia
This common condition often occurs in older adults, but can occasionally develop in young adults and children.For men, the condition presents as thinning of the hair on the crown along with a receding hairline.  For women,  it presents as thinning of the hair on the top of the scalp, which causes the parting to look wider.

Alopecia Areata
This condition presents as smooth bald patches that appear suddenly on the scalp, due to the body’s immune system attacking the hair follicles.  It can develop if there is a family history of autoimmune disorders such as vitiligo, thyroid disease or diabetes.

Tinea Capitis
This condition is a fungal infection of the scalp and is most commonly seen in children. It can cause pus, discharge and hair loss in a part of the scalp. It can result in permanent, irreversible hair loss, therefore early treatment is essential.

Scarring alopecia
This is a group of conditions where inflammation causes permanent destruction of the hair follicles. It often presents as redness with a receding frontal hairline or as inflamed patches on the scalp.
Although hair loss cannot be recovered, treatment can prevent further spread and damage.

How is alopecia diagnosed?
A diagnosis can usually be made clinically and occasionally a scalp biopsy is also required. Blood tests are occasionally performed to check for nutritional deficiencies.

How do we treat hair loss? 

• Topical creams, either prescribed or bought over the counter
• Local injections into the scalp
• Oral medication – (some require regular blood monitoring)
• Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP)
• Hair supplements

PRP is an innovative and highly effective treatment for ageing skin (often known as vampire facial treatment) and restoring hair loss. PRP is often combined with other medical treatments for the best results.

FAQs

What is the process? 

A sample of blood is drawn from your vein and spun in a centrifuge to isolate the platelets from the other blood cells. The platelet-rich plasma is extracted from the sample and injected directly into the face or scalp. The platelets release growth factors that promote healthy skin and encourage the regeneration of new tissue.  Local anesthetic can be applied to the treatment area prior to the injections. There can be temporary pain and/or redness surrounding the treated area for a few hours, but there is no downtime.

How long until results can be seen? 

It is recommended that PRP is done every 4-6 weeks for at least 3 sessions. Results are usually visible a few weeks after your final session.

What is Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra?
DPN presents as harmless brown to black spots or lesions in people with dark skin.

FAQs

How do we treat Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra??

The treatment method must be carefully chosen due to the risk of brown pigmentation or scarring in those with dark skin.  Usually, DPN can be removed with a carbon dioxide laser, or a radio frequency device.

What are the side effects?
The procedure is quick and well tolerated. There can be minimal discomfort during the procedure, and if there are many ice or local anaesthesia can be applied to minimise this. Mild Redness and swelling can last a few days.  In some individuals, a pigmented mark can be left in the treated area, which can fade quickly or last long depending on your skin type. All measures will be taken to minimise this.