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Unless you’re genetically blessed with flawless skin, there’s no doubt that many of us suffer from a multitude of skin concerns that don’t come with instantaneous solutions. Or do they?

While a consistent skincare routine is essential, laser facial treatments have emerged as powerful tools to combat wrinkles, sun damage, and uneven skin tone.

What is it about laser treatments that make them so effective? Is there any downtime? What are some laser clinics in Singapore? How helpful is laser resurfacing?

If you’re brimming with questions such as these, well, rest assured: Daily Vanity has done the legwork for you.

What Are Laser Facial Treatments?

laser facial treatments

A laser facial is exactly what it sounds like: a laser treatment that addresses top skincare concerns.

There are two main categories of laser facials:

  • Ablative Lasers: These resurface the skin by removing the outer layers, effectively treating deeper wrinkles, sun damage, and scars. However, they come with a longer recovery time.
  • Non-Ablative Lasers: These lasers work beneath the skin’s surface, stimulating collagen production without damaging the top layer. This translates to minimal downtime but may require multiple sessions for optimal results.

Common Laser Facial Treatments

  • Fractional Laser Treatment: This popular option uses microscopic laser beams to create tiny punctures in the skin, encouraging collagen growth and improved texture.
  • CO2 Laser Resurfacing: This ablative treatment is highly effective for addressing deep wrinkles, sun damage, and acne scars.
  • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy: Often referred to as a “photofacial,” IPL targets sun damage, redness, and uneven skin tone.

Where To Get Laser Facial Treatments in Singapore

Laser Treatments for Hyperpigmentation and Pigmented Skin Lesions:

Laser Treatments for Acne Scarring:

Laser Treatments for Ageing Skin:

What You Need To Know Before Going for a Laser Facial Treatment

laser facial treatments

Which Laser Facial Is Right for Me?

It all depends on your specific skin concerns and desired outcome. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • For fine lines and wrinkles: Fractional laser or non-ablative CO2 laser.
  • For sun damage and uneven skin tone: IPL therapy or fractional laser.
  • For deeper wrinkles and scars: Ablative CO2 laser.

Another important point to note? It may have the word ‘facial’ in the title, but the key difference between a normal facial and a laser facial is the definite need for recovery time.

How To Prepare for a Laser Treatment?

laser facial treatments

Preparation procedures mostly vary based on which clinic and procedure you pick. Have a thorough consultation with your doctor to discuss your expectations, and make sure to inform them about what you’re looking to get out of this procedure.

A reputable clinic will also conduct a physical exam and review your medical history to ensure that you’re a good candidate for laser treatments.

A majority of clinics recommend staying out of the sun a couple of weeks prior to and after the procedure, while some recommend smokers to stop smoking at least two weeks before the treatment.

This is due to the fact that smoking can dry out the skin, thus causing the procedure to be less effective while also prolonging recovery.

Are They Painful?

Well, there might be some pain involved.

Most reports show that the pain level is equivalent to ‘a rubber band snapping against your skin’, but it really depends on the laser, depth and area of treatment as well.

How Should I Care for My Skin After a Session?

Post-treatment care is a must, though the steps vary depending on what treatment you opt for. An underlying theme between most aftercare procedures for such facials is to avoid sun exposure.

Make sure to apply sunscreen liberally, and schedule some recovery time (at least a day or two) directly after the procedure.

Are There Any Risks and Side Effects?

The risk level is significantly higher with ablative laser treatments.

Common side effects include:

  • Redness, swelling and itching;
  • Acne;
  • Infection;
  • Changes in skin colour;
  • Scarring; and
  • Ectropion: This is a rare occurrence in which the procedure can cause the eyelid to turn out and expose the inner surface.