6 Best Acne Scarring Treatments to Consider

Acne Scarring Treatments

Acne is a common skin issue that affects around 85% of Australians at some point during their lives. Unsightly breakouts can dent your confidence at the time, but they can also cause scarring that remains even after your pesky pimples have cleared. 

But acne scarring doesn’t have to be permanent. With the right treatment, you can achieve smooth and healthy, clear skin. 

But before we dive into that, have a read of our guide on what causes acne.

How To Get Rid of Acne Scars

Acne scarring can damage your confidence and be an unsightly reminder of past breakouts. Fortunately, many treatments can help fade and even get rid of acne scars. 

Medical Grade Peels

Medical grade peels can be highly effective at reducing the appearance of acne scars without the risks and side effects of more invasive procedures. 

A trained skin therapist applies a chemical solution to your skin, causing micro-injuries at a cellular level. When the top layer of skin is injured, it peels off with new cells replacing the damaged scarred tissue. 

Chemical peels can vary in strength, with stronger peels requiring more downtime. 

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels have been proven to be an effective treatment for acne scarring. In a 2017 study published in the Scars, Burns & Healing Journal, 73% of people treated with TCA peels had at least a 70% reduction in the appearance of their acne scarring.

Your b clinic practitioner will be able to recommend the right peel for you based on your skin type and the severity of your acne scarring. 

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in Australia and are suitable for all skin types. While they are most commonly used for lip fillers and targeting wrinkles, they can also treat some forms of acne scarring. 

If you have depressed scars, dermal fillers can restore lost volume and plump the skin from within to create a smoother surface. 

The treatment involves injections of hyaluronic acid underneath the acne scarring. The filler raises the indentation and boosts collagen production in the area. The amount of filler required will depend on the size and severity of the acne scarring. 

Dermal filler results are temporary. The body will naturally break down the filler product over time, and the area will return to its pre-treatment appearance. Your clinician may recommend that your return to the clinic for a top-up treatment every 6 months to maintain your results. 

Skin Needling

Skin needling is a collagen-boosting treatment that is proven to reduce the appearance of acne scars. 

A handheld device with lots of tiny needles is used to puncture the scarred skin and create micro-wounds. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process, increasing collagen production, which helps to smooth the skin. 

The most advanced type of microneedling in Australia is DermaPen skin needling. While a derma roller moves across the skin’s surface, the DermaPen uses fast vertical movement. As a result, it’s more effective and can be used to treat delicate hard-to-reach areas around the mouth, nose, and under-eye area.

In a 2015 study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 85% of patients reported “very good” satisfaction in the treatment of their atrophic acne scarring following 6 microneedling sessions. 

There are little to no side effects from skin needling, and most clients can immediately return to work and social activities following a treatment session. 

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is an effective treatment for acne scars. There is a range of laser therapies to treat mild and severe acne scarring. 

Ablative treatments are the strongest type of laser resurfacing. Targeted laser energy is used to remove the top layer of the scarred skin. This triggers healing and cell renewal in the treated area. As the skin regenerates, the acne scars fade and become less visible. 

Non-ablative laser treatments are gentler on the skin, boosting collagen production to improve the appearance of acne scars. The top layer of the skin is left intact. This type of laser resurfacing is effective for mild to moderate acne scarring. 

A clinical review published in Current Dermatology Reports showed that laser resurfacing is proven to improve a range of types of acne scarring following a series of sessions. The study also showed that ablative lasers could provide significant results in fewer treatments but with a more extended downtime between sessions.

Surgical Punch Techniques

Surgical punch techniques are often used to treat severe ice pick scars and boxcar scars. There are several surgical techniques that can be used for treating acne scars. 

For mild to moderate ice pick scars, your practitioner may elect to surgically remove the scar tissue with a punch excision before sealing the wound. As the wound heals, the skin appears smoother and more even.

For deeper scars, your practitioner may use a technique called punch elevation. Instead of removing the entire scar, the surgeon removes the base of the scar tissue while leaving the sides in place. The base of the scar is then reattached to the sides at a higher level so that the skin’s surface appears smooth.

Your practitioner may use the punch grafting technique for severe ice pick scars. The scar is surgically removed, but a sample of healthy skin taken from another area of the body is used to plug the wound.

Surgical Subcision

Surgical subcison is an acne scar treatment used to improve the appearance of rolling acne scars. Your surgeon will remove the upper layer of skin from the deeper scar tissue using a small needle. This causes blood to clot where the scar tissue is located. 

The blood clot helps to form new connective tissue. This causes the scarring to lift so that it is level with the surrounding skin.

Surgical subcision is sometimes used as the first stage of a comprehensive acne treatment plan. Once completed, chemical peel, laser resurfacing, and other minimally-invasive acne scar treatments are used to improve the appearance of the area further. 

Can You Get Rid of Acne Scars?

Yes. A range of non-surgical cosmetic procedures can treat uneven skin texture and hyperpigmentation caused by acne scarring. 

At-home treatments can help, and you can use makeup to conceal blemishes. But you’ll need professional treatment by a skin therapist to get rid of your acne scarring completely. 

Some types of scarring are more challenging to treat than others. For example, treating a deep ice pick scar might take longer, but you can still achieve great results over time. 

What Do Acne Scars Look Like?

Acne scars vary in appearance and size. Here’s a look at the most common types of acne scarring:

Atrophic Scars

Atrophic scars appear as sunken depressions, giving a pitted appearance to the top layer of skin. This is caused when the skin heals below the top layer, and the body is unable to grow new tissue. 

Boxcar Scars 

This is the most common type of acne scarring and appears as small sunken indents in the skin with sharp edges. Boxcar scars are caused by deep inflammation during a breakout and a lack of collagen during the healing process. 

Ice Pick Scars

Ice pick scars are deep and narrow. This type of scarring often looks like an ice pick has been used to create small holes in the skin. Ice pick scars are usually the most noticeable type of scarring caused by deep inflammation during a breakout. 

Rolling Scars

Rolling scars have a sloping edge that makes them appear like waves under the skin. This scarring usually occurs in areas where the skin is thicker, such as the cheeks and the lower face. 

Keloid Scars

Keloid scars appear as discoloured raised scars and bumps in the skin. Sometimes the body produces too many cells when the skin heals after a breakout. This results in a raised keloid scar. 

Hyperpigmentation

While this is not a type of scarring, hyperpigmentation can result from acne breakouts. This appears as discolouration of the skin where acne has caused inflammation.

What Are the Different Grades of Acne Scars?

Your practitioner or dermatologist can diagnose the type of acne scarring you have based on a visual examination. They will also advise you on the severity of your acne scars. 

The most commonly used acne scarring measurement system has four grades:

Grade 1

The first grade is macular scarring characterised by flat areas of reduced pigmentation. There is no issue with the skin’s contour, but the area appears red or discoloured. 

Grade 2

Mild acne scars are not visible at distances of 50cm and below. Mild rolling acne scars are often categorised as grade 2. Makeup can be applied to conceal most grade 2 acne scarring. 

Grade 3

Moderate acne scars are visible from a distance of 50cm and above. Atrophic, boxcar, and rolling scars are often categorised as grade 2. These scars are not easily concealed with makeup but can be flattened if the skin is stretched. 

Grade 4

Severe acne scarring is visible from distances of 50cm and above. Unlike grade 3 scarring, severe scars cannot be flattened by stretching the skin. Ice pick, keloid, and severe boxcar scars are often categorised as grade 4. 

What Causes Acne Scarring?

Acne scarring is caused by inflammation and damage to the skin as a result of acne breakouts. All types of acne can cause scarring, but it usually occurs following cystic and nodular acne. 

The body increases collagen production to heal the damage caused by the acne, resulting in bumps and indentations when the skin has healed.

How Do I Prevent Acne Scars?

There are lots of ways to reduce the risk of developing acne scars. Inflammation can lead to scarring, so your priority should always be to reduce swelling and calm the skin.

Avoid any products or treatments that cause irritation, and don’t scrub the area. It’s also essential to avoid the temptation to pick or squeeze pimples. This can result in debris being forced deeper into the dermis and increases the risk of acne spreading to surrounding tissue. 

You can prevent acne and the risk of scarring by following a dedicated skincare routine. Read our guide to learn more about how to keep your skin acne-free and the treatments that can help.

Can Acne Scars Heal Naturally?

Some types of acne scars can improve naturally over time. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is common after an acne breakout. This appears as dark red and brown spots on the skin and usually fades slightly over time and can be significantly improved with in-clinic and at-home treatments. Deep acne scars and raised scarring are typically permanent if left untreated. 

Can I Start Treating Acne Scars If I Still Have Active Acne?

Before starting treatment for acne scars, you should wait until your active acne is under control and your skin is relatively clear. New breakouts can lead to new acne scars, so treating the cause of your acne should be your priority. Treating acne scarring can also irritate active acne and increase the risk of side effects. 

Do Acne Scars Look Worse with Age?

Acne scars can become more noticeable with age. This is because the amount of collagen in the skin reduces over time, which results in a loss of volume. It’s common for depressed acne scars and atrophic acne scars to look worse as the surrounding skin ages and loses elasticity. Generally, it’s easier to treat acne scars when you’re younger.

Which Skin Treatments Are Best for Acne Scars?

A good skincare regime can help you prevent breakouts and can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars. You can use a range of products to improve the overall health of your skin and lighten scarring.

A daily cleanser can remove dead skin cells and keep your pores clear to prevent blackheads, whiteheads, and active acne from returning. Consider adding an exfoliating lactic acid, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or salicylic acid topical cleanser to your skincare regime. 

Retinoid serums containing concentrated Vitamin A can help to improve the appearance of scars. In addition, these products help to regulate oil levels and treat hyperpigmentation so your skin appears brighter, smoother, and more even-toned.

It’s also essential to protect your skin from sun exposure with a high-SPF sunscreen. The sun’s UV rays cause inflammation and skin damage, making acne scars more noticeable and less likely to respond to treatment. 

How Can I Remove Scars From My Face Permanently?

With the right treatment, it is possible to remove acne scarring altogether. Laser resurfacing is often the most effective treatment for acne scarring, but you may also benefit from a medical grade peel or skin needling. 

Schedule a free consultation with one of our b clinic doctors, and we’ll advise you on the best way to achieve a clear and smooth complexion for your skin tone and types of acne scars.

9 Anti-Ageing Skin Care Tips for Youthful Skin

There’s no silver bullet for flawless, youthful skin. But there are proven ways to slow down and even reverse some visible signs of ageing. 

We spoke to our team of doctors, skin therapists, and beauty experts to put together a list of the most effective anti-aging skin care tips. 

Add the following tips into your skin care routine if you want to get younger-looking skin and keep people guessing about your age.

Use a Gentle Cleanser

Cleansing your skin is vital for removing the natural oils, bacteria, and pollutants that accumulate during the day. It also allows the active ingredients in your skin care products to penetrate the skin and be more effective. 

There’s no need to buy an expensive cleanser with a bunch of active ingredients. Instead, choose a gentle cleanser with a low pH to avoid skin irritation. The cleanser’s job is to clean away impurities and prepare your skin – it doesn’t stay on your skin for long. 

Once your skin is cleansed, you can apply serums and anti-ageing products with active ingredients. 

Exfoliate

The skin is super-efficient at replenishing itself and replacing dead skin cells with healthy new ones when we’re young. But, unfortunately, this process starts to slow down as we age, resulting in a dull complexion. 

Exfoliation is a great way to remove the dead cells and encourage healthy, younger-looking skin to grow in its place. 

You can exfoliate at home, but the most effective exfoliation comes from a medical grade peel that needs to be performed in the clinic. 

During a medical grade peel, a chemical solution is applied to the skin to break down the bonds between skin cells and remove the superficial layer of skin. As a result, the top layer of skin peels away, revealing healthier, smoother, and younger-looking skin underneath. 

Chemical peels are one of the most effective cosmetic treatments for fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and even severe sun-damaged skin. 

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Anti-wrinkle injections are among Australia’s most popular anti-aging treatments. 

For many of us, fine lines and wrinkles are caused by the repetitive movement of overactive muscles. That’s why the area around the eyes, mouth and forehead are usually the first place you start to see visible signs of ageing. 

Anti-wrinkle injections use a muscle relaxant to reduce or eliminate activity in overactive muscles. With the muscle relaxed, the skin in the treated area appears smoother and more youthful. The treatment can also be a great way to prevent wrinkles from forming or becoming more prominent.

The results from anti-wrinkle injections last for around 4 months. After this time, the relaxant will start to wear off. Many clients return to the clinic every 3 to 4 months to maintain their youthful look. 

Moisturise Twice per Day

One of the leading causes of premature ageing is skin dehydration. You can keep your skin looking younger for longer by moisturising twice daily as part of your skin care routine. 

Avoid any fragranced lotions and choose a gentle moisturiser. We recommend using a moisturiser straight after the shower to lock in moisture and before bed so you can wake up with nourished, glowing skin the next day. 

eTwo Sublative Skin Rejuvenation

eTwo Sublative skin rejuvenation is a powerful anti-ageing and collagen-boosting treatment. That addresses mild skin laxity, improves skin texture, decreases fine lines and wrinkles, smooths and evens complexion. 

Unlike many laser resurfacing procedures, eTwo Sublative therapy are suitable for most skin types.

Your practitioner will use radiofrequency technology to target the dermal layer of the skin with heat energy. The targeted energy stimulates the body to produce more collagen and elastin while avoiding damage to the epidermis (the top layers of skin). 

There are minimal side effects, with most people describing a sensation similar to mild sunburn following treatment. Results can start to be seen 6 weeks after the treatment and will continue to improve over the 2 to 6 months as new collagen is produced. Your skin will appear smoother, firmer, and more youthful with minimal downtime. 

You can expect improvement after a single treatment, but the best results are achieved after multiple sessions. 

Matrix PDO Threads

Matrix PDO threads are a great way to address mild skin laxity and rebuild collagen for smoother and tighter skin. You can improve the contour and definition of the face while rejuvenating the skin and facial tissue. 

During the procedure, your practitioner will use strategically placed absorbable threads to create a subtle lift and activate the collagen-building process within the skin. As a result, your skin will appear firmer and become thicker, stronger, and healthier over time. 

Matrix PDO threads provide a natural-looking result that can rejuvenate the face, neck, and body. You will begin to see results in 6 weeks, which will continue to improve over the 2 to 6 months as new collagen is produced. 

Always Wear Sunscreen

You’ve heard it before, but it’s such an important tip we couldn’t leave it off the list. 

Always wear sunscreen. 

Exposure to the sun’s powerful ultraviolet rays causes the collagen and elastin in the skin to break down faster. Over time, this leads to thinning of the skin, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and other visible signs of ageing. 

Protecting your skin with sunscreen will keep your skin looking young and fresh. 

Applying a daily sunscreen not only protects your skin from further damage it can also help to reverse some of the effects of photo-ageing. 

According to an American Society for Dermatologic Surgery study, daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen results in a 40-52% improvement to the visible signs of existing photo-damaged skin. Keeping your skin protected from the sun gives it a chance to regenerate and repair.  

Get Plenty of Sleep

The growth hormones responsible for cell renewal are only active during your sleep. So if you’re not getting your 8 hours of sleep per day, your skin isn’t getting a chance to renew. That’s why lack of sleep makes your skin look so dull.

Make sure you leave enough time to wind down before bed, get plenty of exercise, and avoid too much screen time to improve your sleep quality.

Try Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers hydrate your skin from the inside, improve skin quality, and restore lost volume to give you a youthful appearance. The procedure involves injections of a hyaluronic acid-based filler product into targeted areas of the face. 

You can have dermal fillers for the lips, cheeks, jaw, around the mouth, under the eyes, and other areas where the loss of volume causes visible signs of ageing. 

Dermal fillers also boost collagen production and can have a lasting rejuvenation impact. Depending on the area being treated, results can last for up to 12 months. 

For more information on the treatments included above and to receive personalised skin care advice, schedule a free consultation with one of our friendly team of skin therapists at b clinic. 

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

At What Age Should You Start Using Anti-Ageing Products?

Most people start to see visible signs of ageing in their late 20s. However, you don’t want to wait until wrinkles, and fine lines form before you take action. 

The best way to keep your skin looking youthful and fresh is to adopt a preventative skin care routine. It’s never too early to protect your skin from the sun and give it the nourishment it needs to fight off signs of ageing. 

What Makes a Face Look Younger?

A youthful appearance results from a smooth and supple complexion, firm neckline, and full volume. 

As the body ages, it produces less collagen and elastin, and fine lines and wrinkles appear. This starts with dynamic lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Over time, these lines become static. 

There are many non-invasive cosmetic treatments to address a loss of volume, uneven skin texture and tone, and skin laxity. Speak to your b clinic clinician to see what the best treatment is for your unique skin concerns. 

What Foods Reduce Ageing?

Some foods help to nourish the skin, while others can do damage and cause premature ageing. 

You should avoid foods high in sugar and anything that causes dehydration, like alcohol. Foods fried in oil can also be bad for your skin due to the release of free radicals. According to the American Journal of Laboratory Medicine, exposure to free radicals accelerates the ageing process. 

Instead, try to eat more fresh foods and lean meat. Chicken and fresh fish are excellent sources of protein and can provide a collagen boost. You should also make sure you get plenty of fresh fruit, legumes, and beans to ensure your skin gets all the vitamins it needs. 

What Are the Best Anti-Ageing Treatments?

The best anti ageing treatment depends on your unique skin care needs.

For many people, a loss of volume is the leading cause of visible signs of ageing. Dermal fillers are the best way to restore lost volume and definition to the face. 

Anti-wrinkle injections are the best treatment for laugh lines, crow’s feet and other wrinkles caused by excessive muscle movement. 

If your skin appears dull or suffers from sun damage, a medical grade peel could be the most effective way to restore your youthful glow. 

To find out the best treatment for you, schedule a free appointment at b clinic today.

Pigmentation Removal With Laser: What To Expect

Pigmentation Removal With Laser

Pigmentation can appear out of nowhere.

One morning you wake up and look in the mirror, and you can see little brown patches across your forehead and dotted around your face. These unwanted dark spots can build up over time and damage your self-confidence. 

But pigmentation doesn’t have to be permanent. PicoSure is the most advanced laser treatment for pigmentation removal.  You can get clearer, younger-looking skin without the downtime and side effects of more invasive laser treatments. 

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about PicoSure pigmentation removal. 

What Is Pigmentation?

Pigmentation is the colouring of your skin. Melanin is the pigment produced in your skin cells that determines the colour of your skin. When your body produces too much melanin, it causes hyperpigmentation, resulting in darker patches of skin.

Change in pigmentation can appear on almost any part of the body but usually appears on the face and other areas exposed to the sun’s powerful UV rays. 

While hyperpigmentation isn’t harmful, it can make you appear older than you truly are. 

What Causes Pigmentation?

There are lots of different causes for changes in pigmentation. However, for most people, pigmentation is caused by an excess of melanin. When too much melanin is produced in an area of the skin, it leads to discolouration and noticeable pigmentation. 

The most common causes of pigmentation include:

  • Sun exposure
  • Genetics
  • Change in hormones
  • Birthmarks
  • Damage to the skin
  • Medical conditions
  • Medications

Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of hyperpigmentation. This is because sun exposure triggers the body to produce more melanin to protect the skin. This is why your skin becomes darker after exposure to sunlight – a suntan. 

Overexposure to the sun’s UV rays causes excessive creation of melanin which is deposited in the skin, resulting in hyperpigmentation.

Is PicoSure Laser Good for Pigmentation?

PicoSure laser treatments are the best way to treat hyperpigmentation. You can remove freckles, sun-damaged skin, pigmentation, and age spots without the downtime and risks involved with more invasive cosmetic treatments. 

In a clinical study published in the Annals of Dermatology, PicoSure laser sessions were shown to be an effective treatment for melasma and pigmentation. PicoSure also has a much lower risk of adverse side effects when compared to other laser therapies. 

How it Works

Your clinician can target the discolouration with PicoSure laser energy. Because the discolouration is darker than the surrounding skin, it attracts and absorbs the laser energy. 

Unlike some laser therapies, PicoSure laser treatments do not damage the surrounding skin. The laser energy is delivered in one trillionth of a second. The short burst of energy doesn’t heat the skin like traditional laser treatments.

The excessive melanin deposits in the skin are shattered into tiny pieces. Your body can then naturally remove the shattered pigment from your skin, leaving you with a clearer and even-toned complexion. 

A laser treatment session usually lasts around 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated and the type of pigmentation. 

What Happens After the Treatment?

Laser treatments are the fastest way to remove hyperpigmentation, but it still takes time to see results.  Pigment will darken for 1-3 weeks following the treatment, then will begin to fade.

Immediately following a laser session, you may experience redness, tenderness, and mild swelling. Many clients say that the sensation is similar to the effect of sunburn. You may want to use a cold compress on the area to make it feel more comfortable. 

It’s important that you don’t rub or scratch the area to avoid any side effects and allow the skin to heal properly. 

Many people go straight back to work and social activities immediately following treatment. Any side effects should subside within a day or two of treatment. During this time, you should avoid applying any skincare products or makeup that could irritate the skin.Do I Need To Prepare?

You should avoid any laser treatments, skin needling, or chemical peels for 2 weeks before the procedure. It’s also important to protect your skin with sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure in the week leading up to your laser session. 

Your clinician may also recommend that you stop certain medication and topical skin creams a week before treatment as they can increase the light sensitivity of the skin.

 If you take regular medications and/or use high grade or prescription skincare it is best to consult with our clinicians prior to your treatment. 

Does Laser Pigmentation Removal Hurt?

The level of discomfort can depend on the location of the treated area and the type of pigmentation. PicoSure is a much more gentle laser treatment. Most people do not require anaesthetic and describe the sensation as similar to an elastic band flicking against the skin. 

We also use a skin cooling system to minimise any discomfort. 

Is There Any Downtime?

There is no downtime associated with PicoSure laser pigmentation removal. You don’t need to book any time off work or cancel any social plans. However, to allow your skin to heal your clinician will recommend that you avoid the following for the next 24 hrs,  strenuous exercise, saunas, hot tubs, chlorinated pools and do not expose the treated area to direct sunlight. 

Your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight immediately following treatment, so you should apply SPF 50 sunblock before leaving the clinic. 

How Many Laser Sessions Are Needed for Pigmentation?

The number of sessions you will require will depend on the depth and type of pigmentation you want to treat. We usually recommend a series of up to 6 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart to achieve the best results. You will see an improvement after each session. 

During your free consultation at b clinic, your clinician will provide a personalised treatment plan for your aesthetic goals.

Will Laser Pigmentation Removal Work for My Skin Type?

It’s essential that you see a qualified practitioner for any laser treatment. During your consultation, your clinician will determine the type of pigmentation and your skin type before recommending a treatment plan that will provide the best results.

Does Pigmentation Return After Laser Treatment?

You will require a series of laser sessions to remove pigmentation from the skin. After each session, you will see an improvement as more of the melanin deposit is shattered and flushed away by the body. 

Pigmentation can return as several factors cause discolouration of the skin, including sun exposure. However, you can maintain your results for longer and stop pigmentation from appearing by protecting your skin from the sun with SPF 50 sun cream, by using high quality skincare at home and avoid prolonged exposure. 

Check out our guide to sun-damaged skin treatments to learn more about your options for treating pigmentation and other visible signs of sun damage. 

How Much Is Laser for Pigmentation?

For a limited time only, you can get a full face PicoSure laser rejuvenation for $320.

Book a Free Consultation Today

Restoring Your Youthfulness with Fractional Laser by b clinic nurse, Selina

Action II Erbium fractional laser skin resurfacing is a safe and effective treatment to help you to look and feel fabulous.

  • Smoother, fresher looking skin
  • Improved tone, texture and pigmentation
  • Reduce wrinkles around the eyes
  • Improved appearance of acne scarring and surgical scars
  • The gold standard treatment for face, neck, chest, arms, legs and back

We do so much to look and feel great, finding the time to live life to the fullest while still taking care of your body and skin. Yet, the effects of the sun, pollution, stress and fatigue can add up over time, keeping your skin from looking as good as you feel.

The Action II Erbium fractional laser uses patented fractional laser technology to target aging and photodamaged skin on the face and the body. 

The laser effectively penetrates the skin’s deeper layers to stimulate your body’s natural healing process and create new collagen. Old and damaged cells are replaced with fresh, glowing, healthy new skin.

How Does it Work?

Fractionated Erbium ablation uses patented fractional technology to target damaged cells with microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into the skin. The laser treats only a fraction of tissue at a time, leaving the surrounding tissue untouched to promote rapid healing. This stimulates your body’s natural healing process, replacing the old and photodamaged cells with fresh, glowing new skin.

Reasons for Choosing to Have Fractional Laser Resurfacing

Fractional Erbium laser treatment has been proven to enhance the appearance and texture of a variety of skin concerns, including:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne scarring
  • Surgical scars
  • Sun damage
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Stretch marks

As a non-invasive treatment, fractional laser resurfacing is both highly effective and safe with minimal downtime post-treatment. The targeted laser therapy stimulates the skin cells to repair and produce new collagen, without the damage that more invasive treatments cause to the skin. 

The treatment itself is also much shorter. Fractional laser resurfacing typically requires around 1 hour in the clinic, with visible improvement within 7 days of a single treatment. 

When Do the Results Appear, and How Long Does It Last?

During your consultation at b clinic, our clinicians will discuss the laser setting options with you to help you decide on a treatment that ensures your recovery is immediate and progressive. 

After 3 days post-treatment, the surface of your skin will start to feel softer and smoother with a dewy and bright appearance, and more even natural tone.

Over the next 3 to 6 months, you will notice more improvement as the deeper layers of the skin continues to create new collagen. Results are long-lasting, with your lifestyle, age, skin condition, and skincare regime impacting the longevity of your new glow. 

In your follow-up appointments, your clinician will provide further guidance with a home care regime and maintenance programme to help you maximise your fractional laser treatment results.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Desired outcomes are typically reached in multiple treatments. These treatments are spaced 4-6 weeks apart. 

The specific number of treatments will be tailored to your goals and desired results as well as your lifestyle and other commitments. Your clinician will work with you to identify the appropriate level of treatment and your preferred downtime.

How Do I Prepare for a Fractional Laser Treatment?

In the weeks before your procedure, you should avoid any heavy sun damage to your skin and any deep facial peel treatments such as chemical peels. 

If you are undergoing a facial laser resurfacing, you should also ensure you don’t have any cold sores, open wounds, or extensive breakouts. When you arrive at the clinic on the day of treatment, a topical numbing cream will be applied. 

The laser resurfacing procedure itself takes up to 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated. 

What Should I Expect After the Treatment?

Immediately after treatment, you will experience a heat sensation that dissipates in around 1-2 hours. You can use cool packs to relieve the sensation during this time. 

You will also experience mild redness and swelling (like sunburn) after the procedure. The redness will usually subside within 24 hours of the treatment. 

On day 2, your skin will naturally bronze and start to flake by the afternoon. This will continue up to the afternoon of day 3. From day 4-7, you will see fresh new skin begin to appear as your skin regenerates. 

You may also experience some dryness. Your clinician will provide you with a cream to help you manage dryness during this stage.

As you continue the treatment sessions, the sunburned-to-bronzed appearance will repeat after each treatment. As with a sunburn, your skin will flake and exfoliate naturally to reveal fresher, glowing, smoother, and dewy-looking skin.

Which Areas Can Be Treated?

While the use of a fractional laser for face acne scarring, fine lines, and sun-damaged skin is the most common application, laser resurfacing can be used to reinvigorate the skin cells of other areas of the body. 

It is particularly effective on the face, neck, chest, hands, and legs. The use of laser treatments to improve the appearance of stretch marks, age spots and surgical scars is becoming increasingly popular. 

How Much Downtime Do I Need After a Fractional Laser Treatment?

The post-treatment downtime for laser resurfacing is typically short. Every person’s skin responds differently, but the majority of people require minimal downtime after laser treatments. In the first 24 hours post-treatment, you can expect redness similar to the effects of sunburn.

After a couple of days, you will experience some minor peeling. 

One of our clinicians will provide online support to guide you through the post-treatment aftercare process and help you to maximize the appearance and longevity of your treatment results. 

Are There Any Side Effects?

Your clinician will give you specific instructions about what to expect for your particular treatment, and how to minimize side effects. You’ll receive an aftercare pack to help you with post-treatment care at home. 

Dedicated at-home online support is provided each day for patients that need extra support. You can always contact a member of our friendly team, and you’ll have educational materials provided at your consultation to help you manage your post-treatment recovery. 

After each of your completed treatments, your clinician will provide guidance and advice during your follow-up appointments. 

This can include skincare product recommendations, home care advice, and a maintenance regime to help you to stay looking glowing and fresh for longer. 

Bringing the Beauty Back at b clinic!

Fractionated Erbium laser was extensively tested in clinical trials. It’s been used on over 10,000 patients worldwide and is very safe. If you would like to know more about fractional laser treatment at b clinic, why not book in a consultation today and bring back your GLOW.

By Selina 

Selina is a highly experienced Nurse with a passion for appearance medicine and the cosmetic nursing industry. 

A specialist in the art of laser therapy and skin rejuvenation, Selina strives to set a high standard of results that delight and excite her clients. Selina helps her clients to achieve a natural cosmetic enhancement, with the goal of helping you look your natural best.

To read more about Selina, click here.

By Selina

 

 

Matrix PDO threads for non-invasive facial rejuvenation – What you need to know

At b clinic, we’re seeing more and more clients turn to non-invasive skin treatments to boost collagen production, improve the skin texture and elasticity and compliment muscle relaxant and dermal filler treatments.

b clinic’s Matrix PDO (Polydioxanone) Thread treatment offers a new and unique way to boost collagen production and create volume and support to areas of the face that are showing visible signs of ageing. Although this treatment is reasonably new, PDO threads have been used for more than 20 years in orthopaedics, plastic and ophthalmic surgery. This track record gives them an excellent safety profile and minimal risk.

It is important to note that the new PDO threads are very different from the classic “thread lift” procedure. “Thread lifts” use a larger and longer barbed thread to attempt to lift larger areas of the face-up against gravity. This is very different from Maxtrix PDO Threads which are gently and strategically placed under the skin to stimulate your own body’s collagen to create a firming and tightening effect to improve skin texture from within.

Matrix PDO threads come in two different textures, Mono Thread and Double Filament Thread. Mono Thread is the most commonly used type and has a single fine layer of PDO which acts to stimulate collagen evenly around its placement. Whereas, Matrix Double Threads have a longer but intertwined thread offering the same great collagen stimulation with some added volumising effect compared to the single mono thread.

Who is it for?

From the age of 30 onwards, the amount of collagen we produce decreases rapidly, contributing to sagging skin, wrinkles and fine lines. To counter this, the Matrix PDO Thread treatment is great for all clients looking to boost natural collagen production. It is for those wanting an effective treatment that works in conjunction with muscle relaxant and dermal filler.

While medical-grade fillers and other injectables contain ingredients that help to restore volume, the PDO thread treatment causes micro-stimulation to the skin which encourages your skin to kickstart its own collagen production, leading to increased volume and firmness over time.

This treatment is particularly useful for the “tough to treat” lines that routine skincare and muscle relaxant doesn’t seem to be improving.

The most popular areas to be treated include:

  • Marionette lines
  • Periorbital lines (around and under the eye)
  • Nasolabial folds
  • Accordion lines
  • Peri-Oral Rhytids (Lip lines)
  • Lower face (chin, neck, buccal)
  • Eyebrows
  • Horizontal forehead lines

How does it work and when will I see results?                        

During a PDO thread treatment, a topical anaesthetic will be applied to the skin. Once the area being treated has been sufficiently numbed, the threads will be inserted into different layers of the skin using a micro-needle or canula in a mesh-like pattern to achieve optimum tightening effects. The insertion of the threads into the skin causes micro-stimulation, which encourages the fibroblasts in your skin to generate new collagen and elastin, which in turn improves skin health, texture and elasticity.

Treatment times vary based upon the area being treated and downtime is minimal with some bruising to be expected. You will begin to see results in 6 weeks following treatment, which will continue to improve over 2-6 months as new collagen is generated. Although the threads dissolve over time, clients can expect to see benefits for up to 12 months after treatment.

Ultimately, the Matrix PDO Thread treatment is a great cost-effective therapy that has long-lasting effects and minimal downtime and risk. When combined with other skin rejuvenation therapies or injectables, it is perfect for clients wanting to maintain a natural, youthful appearance and reduce the signs of skin laxity and fine lines.

Dr Mitch Evans

To find out if you’re a suitable candidate for this treatment, please book a free consultation.

Call 1300 558 188 or book online 

Know Your Frown by Dr Frank

frown lines

Frowns or scowls are a common concern for most clients.

As cosmetic doctors, we deal with these prominent facial expressions every day. Why? Because the muscles you use to bring your eyebrows together to form a frown (the procerus, corrugators, and eyebrow depressors) will naturally create wrinkles in between your brows (the ‘glabella area’) and your forehead.

Every facial expression is connected to a human emotion. We often express displeasure, sadness, anger, worry, curiosity, confusion and concentration in the form of frowns. They can appear in different degrees depending on the emotion or thought behind them, and also in conjunction with other facial expressions. They help us read someone’s face and differentiate one person from another.

It’s not all bad. Some consider frowns are negative, while others believe they denote thoughtfulness. That’s why they are called “thinker’s wrinkles”.  Sometimes these lines give a person’s face character, and we won’t suggest treating them. If you’re happy, leave it alone.

But, in most clients, frown lines don’t accurately represent how they feel. We often see these deep furrows and tracks on the faces of playful, cheerful personalities.

Which character are you?

  • Serious?
  • Thoughtful?
  • Stressed?
  • Focused?
  • Angry?

The benefits of treating frown lines with muscle relaxants

  1. Prevention is better than cure.
  2. We can soften and (in some cases) smooth the appearance of these wrinkles over time.
  3. Most of our clients want to seem less annoyed or angry because they often don’t feel this way.

At b clinic, we don’t take a one-fits-all approach to treat frown lines.  During my years of practice, I have identified four main types of frowns and, of course, you could have a combination of the below:

Frown Type I:

Before treatment—this client has no sign of visible wrinkles but can contract her glabella with difficulty then can relax the muscle after expression. Muscle relaxant treatment result will usually last 5-7 months for this client.

Frown Type II:

This is the most common type of frown! They can easily move their glabella and completely relax the muscle after the expression. He/she will achieve lasting treatment results in 4-6 months.

Frown Type III:

This is a very strong frown. Even at rest, you can clearly see the muscle contraction and permanent lines etched into the skin. At this stage, the glabella can move perfectly but cannot completely release and relax.

Also, the medial part of the eyebrows tends to rise with movement—usually the result of a shorter lasting muscle relaxant treatment, perhaps three months or less. In some people (especially some men), this type of frown could express a unique character. It could be a beautiful expression—absolutely do not change it!

Frown Type IV:

A powerful glabella can cause this type of frown. He can never fully release and relax the muscles and, when they’re contracted, the medial part of the eyebrows tends to fall. This is usually challenging to treat, and he will have to wait at least a year to see long-lasting results with regular treatment.

Please note: Clients with permanent frown lines (types III or IV) can effectively treat their permanent lines with a dermal filler. Used in conjunction with a muscle relaxant, this will smooth and fill in the lines and prevent new lines from forming.

Which type of frown do you have?

Understanding someone’s character through their frown and treating it appropriately is an art.

It’s not always about achieving no muscle movements—the treatment depends on the individual.

During your consultation, I will examine your facial movements and ask about your desired outcomes. Taking into account your personality and other facial expressions, I’ll create a result that perfectly suits you.

The cost of a muscle relaxant frown line treatment $230.

Dr Frank offers free consultations from our Coorparoo, Fortitude Valley and Sunnybank clinic locations.

To book call our friendly staff on 1300558188 or book online

Enhance your appearance without the pain, expense, and downtime of surgery with Dr Elle

Facial fillers are a quick and convenient way to make yourself look more youthful and well-rested.

Dermal fillers are based on a gel material that contains an ingredient that occurs naturally in the body. Used carefully with advanced injecting techniques, dermal fillers can keep you looking naturally beautiful for longer.

Fillers are often described by the thickness of the gel – thin, medium or thick. Due to Australian regulations, we are unable to mention brand names and tend to simply refer to the thickness of the filler. At b clinic, we have carefully selected a range of premium thick, medium and thin fillers. This is fabulous as it allows me to tailor your treatment plan based on what you desire and what I think is suitable following careful aesthetic assessment. For instance, the dermal filler I would select for treating the signs of ageing in the under eye area (often referred to as the tear trough) differs from that which I would choose for jawline enhancement or chin enhancement.

The cost of dermal fillers generally depends on the quantity and type being used. At b clinic the price for our premium fillers is $480 for 1ml, $880 for 2ml, $1320 for 3ml and $1760 for 4ml. Unlike many of our competitors, we have chosen not to charge a higher price per ml for medium and thick fillers. This means that you can feel confident that regardless of the filler that is most suitable for you, even if you need a range of filler thicknesses, your treatment will be extremely cost-effective.

During your personalised cosmetic injectable consultation I will determine the type and volume of dermal fillers that best suit your needs. Using a variety of advanced cosmetic injecting techniques I will sculpt and rejuvenate your appearance with dermal fillers that are appropriate for each area of concern.

Areas that I would recommend thin or medium dermal filler for include under eye hollowing and lip filler treatments. Cheek filler is one of my commonly performed procedures and for this, I would most often prescribe a premium thick filler for increased impact and longevity. I very much enjoy treating what is often referred to as “the lower third” ie the lower part of the face. The lower third can be enhanced with jawline filler and chin filler to create a very appealing facial aesthetic – I tend to select thick filler for these treatments. This lower part of the face is often treated to rejuvenate the face to create a more youthful appearance by hiding jowls and strengthening the jawline. Using multiple advanced injectable techniques I treat with a combination of medium and thick dermal fillers to hide the signs of ageing.

These examples above are by no means an exhaustive list of the places I can use dermal fillers to make you look your best. There are many other techniques that can be used to keep you looking naturally beautiful. We offer free comprehensive cosmetic injectable consultations at b clinic. I would be thrilled to see you for a thorough medical cosmetic assessment and we can begin your journey into the exciting world of dermal filler together.

Dr Elle consults at our Brisbane City and Fortitude Valley locations. Click here to book online.

A note from Dr Lee-“We’ll be back” 

Dear Clients,

 

As from Saturday 28/3/20, my team and I have made the decision to temporarily close our clinic doors. As we agree self-isolation is the best strategy to stop further spreading of the virus and to eradicate it.

This is an extremely challenging time for everyone. However, I believe this is an ideal opportunity to dig deep into ourselves and get creative and focus on how we can create a better future. During this time I can assure you that I will be doing just that. After 22 years of creating my passion and dream, I am not about to give up. We intend to come back from this more determined and focused on serving you better once we are back in the clinic.

Our b clinic practitioner team will be coming together, conducting virtual meetings to explore and brainstorm how we can improve our services and make them more affordable for you in the future.

I am grateful to you all for your support before and during this phase. As many of my clients know, I’ve always tried my hardest to avoid being on social media but I firmly believe that these platforms can serve us all well during this time, allowing us all to connect and to have some fun. Our b clinic doctors, staff and I will be using our social media channels to maintain a connection with you, play some games and give away a number of b clinic gift vouchers.

If you have an appointment booked at any of our 7 b clinic locations within the next 4 weeks, our team will be in contact with you to reschedule your appointment to a future date. Whilst you may not be able to physically visit us in clinic our staff will still be here to assist you via phone or email should you have any questions or concerns. We have now disabled our online booking system and are currently booking clients injectable appointments as from 1st May however we will continue to update you if this date changes.

 

Please contact us via 1300558188 or email askus@bclinic.com

 

We look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

 

Take care,

 

Warm regards

 

Dr Lee Lua & team.

#strongertogether #socialdistancing #flattenthecurve #weareallinthistogether # staysafe #wewillbeback

Connect with us on b clinic Facebook and Instagram

Christmas Holiday Hours

Tis the season to get toxed!

Dear Clients,

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your support this year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe & fabulous New Year.

 

Love b Team xoxo

Facial Slimming vs Jaw Enhancement

Many of our clients have asked us what’s the difference between jaw enhancement & jaw slimming treatments. The answer is simple…

Enhancing the jawline with dermal filler injections can create a more angled, defined jawline. Strengthening an undefined and weak jawline can create more balance in the lower face and can also decrease the appearance of jowls, or hanging folds of fat and skin drooping beneath the jawline. The results of this treatment can be seen instantly and can last 4-8 months.

However, a strong square jawline is not a facial feature that everyone desires.

The jaw slimming treatment has become very popular among those who are looking to create a slimmer, more feminine facial appearance. It is also an ideal treatment for those who are wanting relief from the pain and discomfort associated with excessive teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism. Clients that suffer from bruxism may notice that they have overdeveloped masseter muscles (chewing muscles). The bulking up of these muscles can make the jawline appear squarer, wider & more masculine.

What to expect from this treatment?

A few days after a jaw slimming treatment, clients may begin to notice visible results in their jawline. Within about ten days, the injected muscle relaxant will take full effect, relaxing and slimming their jawline.

The effects of this treatment can last 3-6 months. Over time, the injected muscle relaxant will wear off, as the muscles regain their strength.

To see if you are an ideal candidate for either of these treatments please book a free consultation with one of our experienced practitioners.

This treatment is available at b clinic James St, Chermside, Coorparoo, Sunnybank, Robina, Mooloolaba and Brisbane city.