What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

The causes of  typical or excessive hair growth is broad. The severity of excessive hair growth differs for each individual.

Idiopathic hirsutism

Most women sustain the excessive body hair growth without any evidence of hormonal disorders. The increased sensitivity to hormonal stimulation by androgens, therefore male hormones, is to blame, that is in some minor range produced by a female body.

Heredity and race

The Influence of heredity on the hair growth is indisputable, but increased body hair is also tied to racial affiliation. Increased hair growth can be found in women with dark hair and women from the Mediterranean and India.

The period of time after menopause

During this period, the production of female sex hormones- estrogenes – is decreases. Up to 20% of women reported excessive hair growth.

Endocrine disease

Endocrine disease is when a glan produces too much or too little of an endocrine hormone, causing a hormone imbalance. Endocrine disease affects the adrenal gland, thyroid gland, pituitary gland or ovaries. Which causes polycystic ovarian syndrome, hyperprolactinemia and hypothyroidism.

Side effects of Drugs

Excessive hair occurs when taking hormonal medicines containing androgens, but also when taking some anti-epileptic drugs or chemotherapy.

Treatment Solution:

Medical Grade Laser Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal works by emitting a specific wavelength of light to target the hair follicle at the root. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) and transmitted down the shaft, disrupting the growth mechanism when it reaches the root. The light energy is then transformed to heat energy the heat then affects the hair follicles to prevent future hair growth.

Medical Grade Laser Hair Removal treatment provides a permanent solution for a range of different areas across the body. This is achieved through a series of sessions that target specific areas of growth and eliminate the follicles. Generally, between 6 to 8 treatment sessions* can eliminate 90% of growth permanently.

At Australian Laser & Skin Clinics, we use the latest technology in Laser Hair Removal. All of our treatments are performed by a laser safety certified clinicians.

PLEASE NOTE: As laser is attracted to pigment, Laser Hair Removal. We also don’t recommend Laser Hair Removal if you  have white, blonde or ginger hair or have dark skin. Please call us for a Free Consultation to assess your suitability.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Tattoos are an increasingly popular method of body art, so it’s no surprise that a sizeable percentage of the world’s population is adorned with ink. Tattooing has been practiced for centuries in many cultures and can represent a number of meanings for the owner of the tattoo, including having religious, spiritual, and artistic implications. Unfortunately, there are some who later regret their body art. What seemed like a good idea at the time can cause major problems later in life, including psychological distress. For others, it can result in difficulty in securing employment or going for a promotion.

Many have lived with these regretted tattoos, wrongly believing them to be permanent. Fortunately, there’s an effective solution available, allowing tattoos to be safely faded and removed using the latest in medical-grade laser technology. Australian Laser & Skin Clinics specialise in professional laser tattoo removal, providing an affordable and safe procedure that effectively reduces the appearance of unwanted tattoos.

Treatment Solution:

Laser Tattoo Removal

Australian Laser & Skin Clinics use a medical-grade laser known as a Q-Switched Alexandrite, the best laser for Tattoo Removal. Named for the crystal that focuses the light, this laser uses Q-Switching to create a high intensity beam in very short pulses. As a result, it can produce a very precise light on a specific wavelength that can be focused to approx. 0.1 millimetre – as small as a tattoo particle – for precise removal of ink from the dermis. This light breaks down the ink particles and they are then removed by the immune system in a natural process.

The Q-Switched Alexandrite Laser is approved by the American FDA and widely considered the ‘standard of care’ throughout the professional tattoo removal industry.

The procedure has been proven to be both safe and effective, with researchers having determined which wavelengths of light are most effective at removing ink without damaging surrounding skin.

WHAT IS SCARRING? WHAT ARE THE CAUSES/ SYMPTOMS AND/OR SIGNS?

Scarring is caused by a particular pattern of healing in previously injured skin. If the wound involves the most superficial layers of the skin – the epidermis and superficial dermis – it may heal without scarring. If it is full thickness and involves the deep dermis, the skin will heal with scarring.

There are different types and degrees of scarring that can be treated with scar tissue removal in Melbourne:

• Dark Scars and Light Scars – Scarring is a normal response from the skin when healing an injury with enough depth to extend into the dermis. Early scars are formed seven to ten days after injury and have only 5 to 10% of the skin’s normal breaking strength. Over six to twelve months, the wound remodels and a mature scar (which is either light or dark) can form on the skin.
• Raised Scars – Some wounds heal abnormally and produce scar tissue that can make scarring more prominent. This excessive scar tissue is put into two categories:
  • Keloid Scars that tend to grow outside the border of the initial injury, and can become large, painful or itchy.
  • Hypertrophic Scars are raised but not to the same degree as keloid scars, they commonly occur on bendable areas of the skin (back, knees and elbows) and result from the stretching of wound edges while healing.
• Indented Scars – Indented scars are the most common scar type and are most often seen on the face (where acne has been present). This is caused when not enough scar tissue has formed and therefore does not match up with the surrounding skin.

Treatment Solutions:

Skin Needling

Skin Needling is greatly recommended to assist in the treatment of most types of scarring on various parts of the body. Rejuvenating micro channels are formed in the skin that actively breaks up existing scar tissue. This encourages the production and distribution of new collagen that will work to build healthy, thicker and firmer skin in the scarred region. You will notice that your skin will be smoother and far more even after skin needling at one of our Melbourne clinics.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a suitable option to treat new or minimal scars. Combining mechanical exfoliation with a pressured vacuum Microdermabrasion very accurately smooths and refines mild, shallow scarring. The mechanical exfoliation provides a softened and clarified complexion whilst the vacuum assists in lymphatic drainage to promote a clearer and more evenly toned skin balance.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is an effective, comfortable and proven procedure in Melbourne that treats scarring from within. Emitting a gentle beam to the scar LLLT naturally stimulates a healing response to promote cellular renewal and collagen production in the damaged tissue. LLLT provides a suitable option to treat old scarring of all grades.

An uneven skin tone, also called hyperpigmentation, is irregular darkening of the skin. The cause: overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin and hair color. Uneven skin tone is caused by several factors such as sun exposure, pollution, hormones and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation which is darkening of the skin as a result of scarring, which can be caused by acne lesions or skin injury.

Treatment Solutions:

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation is an extremely effective treatment against hyperpigmentation that can appear on various parts of the body. Performed with our Medical Grade Intense Pulsed Light Laser or IPL, Photo Rejuvenation is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to absorb melanin (the dark pigment) that appears in age spots. This light converts to heat, which damages the target cells without upsetting the skins surface. After treatment of age spots they will go darker, then will fall off within 7 to 28 days (depending on the area of the body) or will just gradually fade.

**Photo Rejuvenation is most suitable for fair to olive complexions; dark to very dark skin tones are not suitable for treatment**

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are an ideal choice for the treatment of hyperpigmentation, particularly for lighter coloured spots. There are a number of Chemical Peels that are specifically formulated to help with the reduction of age spots and even out overall skin tone, while leaving the skin hydrated.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT gently assists in the reduction and formation of hyperpigmentation without heat or discomfort. Emitting a gentle beam to areas affected by age spots, LLLT works within the skin to balance over-active melanocytes (pigment producing cells) and sun damaged cells.

Laser Facial

Laser Facial uses Q-Switched Laser technology which uses combination of high power and short pulse widths (less than 20 nanoseconds – one nanosecond is equivalent to one billionth of a second) that deliver energy throughout the layers of the epidermis, faster than the normal relaxation time of the tissue. This process safely breaks down and shatters small particles comprising the discolouration, which are then later removed by the body’s immune system.

Carbon Laser Peel

Carbon Laser Peel is the application of specialised laser energy to reduce visible skin pigmentation, improve skin tone and more. Carbon Laser Peel not only improves uneven pigment but can also reduce the appearance of textural irregularities and fine lines.

The laser energy works in two ways, first it gently targets the melanin (pigmentation) in the cells breaking it up for your body’s natural removal processes, and second it heats deep in the dermis causing the skin to contract and stimulate collagen.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Hyperpigmentation can be an unwanted consequence of internal physical factors and/or external factors which can include hormonal changes, sun exposure, skin type, trauma and the skin’s natural ageing process. Presenting as areas of uneven skin tone, darkness, age spots or freckles, pigmentation occurs when excess melanin (skin pigment) has been stimulated. Factors that may contribute to this process can be divided into external, internal and genetic triggers:

What causes pigmentation?

• Sun damage
• Genetics
• Skin type
• Hormones/Pregnancy
• Skin trauma/Injury
• Birthmarks
• Environmental exposure
• Environmental changes
• Friction
• Uric acid (sweat burn)
• Trauma, medications and medical conditions

What are the different types of Pigmentation?

Epidermal Pigmentation (Superficial) usually affects lighter skin tones, and is usually caused by sun damage. Some examples of Superficial pigmentation include:

• Sun spots
• Age spots
• Freckles

Dermal Pigmentation (Deeper) which can be caused by trauma, medications and hormonal factors, can present itself as:

• Pigmented acne scarring
• Birthmarks
• Chloasma/Melasma

Hyperpigmentation is not just restricted to the facial area and commonly presents on the shoulders, neck, décolletage, backs of the hands and bikini area. Pigmentation affects all skin colours and all skin types and conditions. Any form of hyperpigmentation may be further aggressed by sun exposure and the daily use of an SPF30 or greater sunscreen on all affected areas is crucial.

Treatment Solutions:

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation an extremely effective treatment against many forms of Pigmentation. Performed with our Medical Grade Intense Pulsed Light Laser or IPL, Photo Rejuvenation is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to absorb melanin (the dark pigment) and haemoglobin (the red colour in your blood vessels). This light converts to heat, which damages the target cells without disrupting the skins surface. After treatment of pigmented areas they will go darker sometimes almost black, then will fall off within 7 to 28 days (depending on the area of the body) or it will just gradually fade.

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are an exceptional choice for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. The Australian Laser & Skin Clinics offers many different types of chemical peels that are specifically formulated to help even out the overall skin tone, treat hyperpigmintation, fine lines and wrinkles, while leaving the skin hydrated.

Skin Needling

Skin Needling is highly effective for treating hyperpigmentation on dark skin colours. This multitasking treatment creates rejuvenating micro channels into the skin to promote a more balances and normalized cellular function. As melanocytes (pigment producing cells) are directly targeted, a repair and corrective process encourages an even skin tone creating a radiant appearance.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser that reduces the formation of hyperpigmentation without heat or discomfort. LLLT works within the skin to balance over-active melanocytes (pigment producing cells) and sun damaged cells. Afetr a series of treatments the complexion cumulatively becomes clearer and more radiant with increased luminosity. LLLT is another treatment that is highly effective for treating hyperpigmentation on dark skin colours.

Cosmelan

Cosmelan is a highly innovative system that gently targets and treats unwanted pigmentation on the face and body. The two-phase intensive treatment programme firstly involves the application of a highly potent de-pigmenting mask. This is applied at the clinic and it is not washed off for up to 6-10 hours following application (dependent on skin type). The second treatment phase is an at-home maintenance cream that should be applied twice daily to enhance the effects of the mask.

This safe and non-invasive procedure treats the source of pigment formation to deliver a rapidly clearer, brighter and more clarified complexion.

Laser Facial

Laser Facial uses Q-Switched Laser technology which uses combination of high power and short pulse widths (less than 20 nanoseconds – one nanosecond is equivalent to one billionth of a second) that deliver energy throughout the layers of the epidermis, faster than the normal relaxation time of the tissue. This process safely breaks down and shatters small particles comprising the discolouration or skin lesion, which are then later removed by the body’s immune system.

Carbon Laser Peel

Carbon Laser Peel is the application of specialised laser energy to reduce visible skin age spots, pigmentation and improve skin tone.

The laser energy works in two ways, first it gently targets the melanin (pigmentation/age spots) in the cells breaking it up for your body’s natural removal processes, and second it heats deep in the dermis causing the skin to contract and stimulate collagen.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Freckles are characterised by multiple small and flat pigmented spots that cover the face and entire body. Unlike age spots which are usually the result of excessive sun exposure, true freckles develop during childhood and are more predominant on paler skins. Most freckles are a product of genetics; however the condition is exacerbated by sun exposure.

Freckles are most commonly found on:

• The nose
• Cheeks
• Shoulders
• Décolletage
• Arms

Treatment Solutions:

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation is a non-invasive treatment performed with a medical-grade Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). Utilising a specific light designed to target the pigmentation in freckles, the light is transformed into heat energy that can treat the areas of uneven skin tone and freckles without harming the skin’s surface. A course of Photo Rejuvenation may be required for areas of stubborn pigmentation or freckling, however results may be seen after just one treatment.

Cosmelan

Cosmelan is a highly innovative system that gently targets and treats unwanted pigmentation on the face and body. The two-phase intensive treatment programme firstly involves the application of a highly potent de-pigmenting mask. This is applied at the clinic and it is not washed off for up to 6-10 hours following application (dependent on skin type). The second treatment phase is an at-home maintenance cream that should be applied twice daily to enhance the effects of the mask.

This safe and non-invasive procedure treats the source of pigment formation to deliver a rapidly clearer, brighter and more clarified complexion.

Laser Facial

Laser Facial uses Q-Switched Laser technology which uses combination of high power and short pulse widths (less than 20 nanoseconds – one nanosecond is equivalent to one billionth of a second) that deliver energy throughout the layers of the epidermis, faster than the normal relaxation time of the tissue. This process safely breaks down and shatters small particles comprising the discolouration or skin lesion, which are then later removed by the body’s immune system.

Carbon Laser Peel

Carbon Laser Peel is the application of specialised laser energy to reduce visible skin age spots, freckles, pigmentation and improve skin tone.

The laser energy works in two ways, first it gently targets the melanin (pigmentation/age spots) in the cells breaking it up for your body’s natural removal processes, and second it heats deep in the dermis causing the skin to contract and stimulate collagen.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Age spots also known as liver spots, sun spots or solar lentigo become an unwanted consequence of sun exposure and the skin’s natural ageing process. Presenting as areas of uneven skin tone or pigmentation, age spots result when excess melanin (skin pigment) has been stimulated.

How do age spots form?

The main factors that contribute to this age spots include:

• Sun damage / exposure
• Age

Age spots are not just restricted to the facial area and are commonly present on the shoulders, neck, décolletage, backs of the hands or any sun-exposed areas.

Treatment Solutions:

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation is an extremely effective treatment against age spots that can appear on various parts of the body. Performed with our Medical Grade Intense Pulsed Light Laser or IPL, Photo Rejuvenation is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to absorb melanin (the dark pigment) that appears in age spots. This light converts to heat, which damages the target cells without upsetting the skins surface. After treatment of age spots they will go darker, then will fall off within 7 to 28 days (depending on the area of the body) or will just gradually fade.

**Photo Rejuvenation is most suitable for fair to olive complexions; dark to very dark skin tones are not suitable for treatment**

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are an ideal choice for the treatment of age spots, particularly for lighter coloured spots. There are a number of Chemical Peels that are specifically formulated to help with the reduction of age spots and even out overall skin tone, while leaving the skin hydrated.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT gently assists in the reduction and formation of age spots without heat or discomfort. Emitting a gentle beam to areas affected by age spots, LLLT works within the skin to balance over-active melanocytes (pigment producing cells) and sun damaged cells.

Laser Facial

Laser Facial uses Q-Switched Laser technology which uses combination of high power and short pulse widths (less than 20 nanoseconds – one nanosecond is equivalent to one billionth of a second) that deliver energy throughout the layers of the epidermis, faster than the normal relaxation time of the tissue. This process safely breaks down and shatters small particles comprising the discolouration or skin lesion, which are then later removed by the body’s immune system.

The face treatments can be extremely effective for those with lighter skin tones, elastic and non-oily skin. They work well for addressing skin concerns such as lines, wrinkles, uneven pigmentation and superficial facial scarring. However, the procedure is not suitable for those suffering from active acne.

Carbon Laser Peel

Carbon Laser Peel is the application of specialised laser energy to reduce visible skin age spots, pigmentation and improve skin tone.

The laser energy works in two ways, first it gently targets the melanin (pigmentation/age spots) in the cells breaking it up for your body’s natural removal processes, and second it heats deep in the dermis causing the skin to contract and stimulate collagen.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Melasma is a very common patchy brown, tan, or blue-gray facial skin discoloration, usually seen in women in the reproductive years. It typically appears on the upper cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and chin of women 20-50 years of age. It is uncommon in males. It is thought to be primarily related to external sun exposure, external hormones like birth control pills, and internal hormonal changes as seen in pregnancy. Most people with melasma have a history of daily or intermittent sun exposure, although heat is also suspected to be an underlying factor. Melasma is most common among pregnant women, especially those of Latin and Asian descents. People with olive or darker skin, like Hispanic, Asian and Middle Eastern individuals, have higher incidences of Melasma.

Treatment Solution:

Cosmelan

Cosmelan is a depigmentation agent which acts by decreasing melanin from the skin. Melanin is responsible for the darkening of the skin and contributing to such factors as melasma and other skin discolorations. Melanin is increased by sun exposure, acne, aging, and hormone fluctuation. Cosmelan has the ability to inhibit an enzyme (tyrosinase) that is involved in the process of causing skin darkening. Cosmelan leads to a decrease in melanin synthesis and hence to a decrease in darkened skin color. Studies have shown that Cosmelan can effectively reduce skin discolorations by up to 90% if used appropriatesly.

Dull skin is one of the most common skin complaints. When people talk about dull skin, they generally are describing skin that lacks radiance or glow like that associated with healthy skin. Dull skin tone is typically a result of dryness and lack of moisture, dead skin cell build up, stress, poor diet and circulation.

Your complexion looks radiant when it’s smooth enough to reflect light, deep exfoliation and moisture will improve skins lustre and glow.

Treatment Solutions:

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a painless procedure that removes the outer layer of dead skin cells that can make skin look dull and lifeless due to dead skin cells build up.

Microdermabrasion also provides a firm suction to the skin’s surface that not only clears the skins surface but also improves the blood supply to the dermis thereby enhancing cellular nutrition and skin colour.

When the skin pores are clean of oil and dirt build up skin care products such as your moisturizer can penetrate deeper and work more effectively to give your skin extra moisture.

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are great exfoliators, removing the top layer of your skin and revealing the new, healthy skin underneath. Chemical Peel treatment is a simple but effective treatment that involves applying a liquid solution that usually includes some form of acid in order to remove the top layer of skin in a safe and controlled way. Chemical Peel treatments come in three basic levels of strength: superficial, medium and deep. These strengths differ in the level of the skin they penetrate, and which strength is right for you depends on your skin type, the condition of your skin, and the type of results you are hoping to achieve.

Skin Needling

The top and middle layers tend to provide the look your skin gives. The dulling of your skin often coincides with imperfections and damage that reside within the epidermis and dermis layers. Skin Needling utilizes fine needles to penetrate these layers of the skin. This leaves the top layer of your skin, the epidermis, intact while fostering the growth of new collagen and elastin. Your skin becomes more radiant and healthy looking.

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections is used to plump and soften the look and feel of the skin by restoring the skins hydrobalance. It improves the elasticity and skin structure and treats crepey skin and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydrators are an injectable treatment that involve tiny molecules of a gel-type substance placed underneath the skin. They work by pulling and holding moisture into the gel particle, which keeps the skin hydrated and boosts the overall skin quality. The result is softer, more hydrated fuller, firmer and more radiant looking skin. Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections can be used on the face, neck, décolletage and hands.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Acne scarring typically occurs when a person who suffers from severe symptoms leaves them untreated for a prolonged period of time. Scars can also form if the person constantly picks at or squeezes their acne.

Scarring results from the depth of injury. When inflammation, infection or trauma affects the deeper layers of the skin, scar tissue formation occurs.

Scarring comes in many different shapes, sizes and even colours. There are five different types of acne scars:

• Rolling: Indented, superficial, wave-like scars
• Keloid: Raised scars that extend beyond the original wound
• Boxcar: Deeply indented, round pitted scars
• Ice-pick: Deeply indented, narrow pitted scars
• Pigmentation: Discoloration of a scar is referred to as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation but is not a true scar

It should be noted that not all scarring is the same and are awarded different levels of severity. Scarring may be graded as:

• Grade 1: Slightly visible inconsistencies in the complexion.
• Grade 2: Visible mild rolling scars.
• Grade 3: Visible moderate rolling, boxcar and hypertrophic scars.
• Grade 4: Visible severe icepick or keloid scarring.

Treatment Solutions:

Skin Needling

Skin Needling is highly recommended for treatment for acne scars. Australian Laser & Skin Clinics offers a variety of options that are specifically designed to target particular subgroups and depths of scarring. It produces micro channels that rejuvenate the skin and can break up existing scar tissue of any grade. These channels encourage the generation and distribution of new collagen that will progressively build healthy, thicker and firmer skin around the affected areas. This significantly reduces the depth and appearance of scarring and provides a far smoother and even skin surface.

Side effects of the needling process are typically minimal and can include swelling, peeling and mild bruising. The risk of post-procedure infection is highly unlikely as the micro channels will typically close within minutes.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is perfect for mild scarring, but is also suitable for all grades. Microdermabrasion is an effective method for helping reduce the appearance of dark brown and red marks left by acne, and can also be used to enhance the effectiveness of Skin Needling. Microdermabrasion also assists in the removal of dirt and debris that causes congestion, which can lead to scarring.

The non-invasive procedure is highly popular and doesn’t require any downtime.

Chemical Peels

Australian Laser & Skin Clinics offer varying degrees of Chemical Peels, from superficial to medium depth. Chemical Peels can assist in managing mild to medium scarring, with a series of sessions required to achieve optimum results. The appropriate Chemical Peel can soften and smooth scarring whilst stimulating cellular renewal for a refreshed and re-texturised complexion.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) promotes rapid skin repair and renewal without the client experiencing any heat or discomfort, making it a highly effective option for laser acne scar removal. LLLT emits a gentle beam to acne scar affected areas and works within the skin to naturally stimulate a healing response, promoting cellular renewal and collagen production. It effectively repairs uneven texture, indentations and raised tissues. LLLT provides a suitable option for acne scar removal, as it targets old scar tissue and all grades of damage.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Acne can affect all skin types and all ages, and may be caused by a combination of genetics, hormone changes, and health and environmental factors.

Acne can form when:

• Androgen (male) hormones stimulate excess sebum (or oil) production
• Excess oil, dry skin and debris combine and become trapped in the pore

Acne bacteria lives naturally on healthy skin but proliferates when pores become blocked. The damage caused by this bacteria, and the associated inflammation, can make the tissues more susceptible to other bacteria (such as staphylococcus aureus).

Acne can be categorised into different grades:

• Grade 1: Mild blackheads and papules
• Grade 2: Moderate blackheads, pustules and papules
• Grade 3: Moderate to severe inflammation, blackheads, pustules and papules
• Grade 4: Severe inflammation, blackheads, pustules and papules

Treatment Solutions:

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an effective method which assists in the removal of dead and dry skin cells from the surface of the skin, reducing pore blockage that leads to acne. It is especially effective for the removal of blackheads. Microdermabrasion can also help with the penetration and absorption of active acne skin care products.

Chemical Peels

For a more in-depth acne treatment, Chemical Peels exfoliate and refine the skin by using active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids (fruit acids), beta-hydroxy acids and enzymes to penetrate deeper into the skin surface. Beta-hydroxy acid peels, also known as salicylic acid peels, are a good option for those with acne, as they target oil and help reduce inflammation associated with acne.

Skin Needling

Skin Needling is a regenerating treatment that works by stimulating the production and distribution of collagen. This is achieved by using multiple needles in various sizes to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, triggering the body’s natural wound healing response. The result is an overall improvement in the appearance of skin, with wrinkles and lines smoothed, acne reduced, and scarring minimised.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT has become a popular treatment for those who have exhausted all traditional acne remedies, or for those who want to enhance Microdermabrasion or Chemical Peels treatment.

LLLT works with a cold laser that emits a powerful but gentle beam of light to the damaged area. This is absorbed by the cells of the damaged tissue or the area affected by acne, penetrating under the surface of the skin with no heating effect and repairing the inflammation where the acne has formed.

WHAT IS SCARRING? WHAT ARE THE CAUSES/ SYMPTOMS AND/OR SIGNS?

Scarring is caused by a particular pattern of healing in previously injured skin. If the wound involves the most superficial layers of the skin – the epidermis and superficial dermis – it may heal without scarring. If it is full thickness and involves the deep dermis, the skin will heal with scarring.

There are different types and degrees of scarring that can be treated with scar tissue removal in Melbourne:

• Dark Scars and Light Scars – Scarring is a normal response from the skin when healing an injury with enough depth to extend into the dermis. Early scars are formed seven to ten days after injury and have only 5 to 10% of the skin’s normal breaking strength. Over six to twelve months, the wound remodels and a mature scar (which is either light or dark) can form on the skin.
• Raised Scars – Some wounds heal abnormally and produce scar tissue that can make scarring more prominent. This excessive scar tissue is put into two categories:
  • Keloid Scars that tend to grow outside the border of the initial injury, and can become large, painful or itchy.
  • Hypertrophic Scars are raised but not to the same degree as keloid scars, they commonly occur on bendable areas of the skin (back, knees and elbows) and result from the stretching of wound edges while healing.
• Indented Scars – Indented scars are the most common scar type and are most often seen on the face (where acne has been present). This is caused when not enough scar tissue has formed and therefore does not match up with the surrounding skin.

Treatment Solutions:

Skin Needling

Skin Needling is greatly recommended to assist in the treatment of most types of scarring on various parts of the body. Rejuvenating micro channels are formed in the skin that actively breaks up existing scar tissue. This encourages the production and distribution of new collagen that will work to build healthy, thicker and firmer skin in the scarred region. You will notice that your skin will be smoother and far more even after skin needling at one of our Melbourne clinics.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a suitable option to treat new or minimal scars. Combining mechanical exfoliation with a pressured vacuum Microdermabrasion very accurately smooths and refines mild, shallow scarring. The mechanical exfoliation provides a softened and clarified complexion whilst the vacuum assists in lymphatic drainage to promote a clearer and more evenly toned skin balance.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is an effective, comfortable and proven procedure in Melbourne that treats scarring from within. Emitting a gentle beam to the scar LLLT naturally stimulates a healing response to promote cellular renewal and collagen production in the damaged tissue. LLLT provides a suitable option to treat old scarring of all grades.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Acne scarring typically occurs when a person who suffers from severe symptoms leaves them untreated for a prolonged period of time. Scars can also form if the person constantly picks at or squeezes their acne.

Scarring results from the depth of injury. When inflammation, infection or trauma affects the deeper layers of the skin, scar tissue formation occurs.

Scarring comes in many different shapes, sizes and even colours. There are five different types of acne scars:

• Rolling: Indented, superficial, wave-like scars
• Keloid: Raised scars that extend beyond the original wound
• Boxcar: Deeply indented, round pitted scars
• Ice-pick: Deeply indented, narrow pitted scars
• Pigmentation: Discoloration of a scar is referred to as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation but is not a true scar

It should be noted that not all scarring is the same and are awarded different levels of severity. Scarring may be graded as:

• Grade 1: Slightly visible inconsistencies in the complexion.
• Grade 2: Visible mild rolling scars.
• Grade 3: Visible moderate rolling, boxcar and hypertrophic scars.
• Grade 4: Visible severe icepick or keloid scarring.

Treatment Solutions:

Skin Needling

Skin Needling is highly recommended for treatment for acne scars. Australian Laser & Skin Clinics offers a variety of options that are specifically designed to target particular subgroups and depths of scarring. It produces micro channels that rejuvenate the skin and can break up existing scar tissue of any grade. These channels encourage the generation and distribution of new collagen that will progressively build healthy, thicker and firmer skin around the affected areas. This significantly reduces the depth and appearance of scarring and provides a far smoother and even skin surface.

Side effects of the needling process are typically minimal and can include swelling, peeling and mild bruising. The risk of post-procedure infection is highly unlikely as the micro channels will typically close within minutes.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is perfect for mild scarring, but is also suitable for all grades. Microdermabrasion is an effective method for helping reduce the appearance of dark brown and red marks left by acne, and can also be used to enhance the effectiveness of Skin Needling. Microdermabrasion also assists in the removal of dirt and debris that causes congestion, which can lead to scarring.

The non-invasive procedure is highly popular and doesn’t require any downtime.

Chemical Peels

Australian Laser & Skin Clinics offer varying degrees of Chemical Peels, from superficial to medium depth. Chemical Peels can assist in managing mild to medium scarring, with a series of sessions required to achieve optimum results. The appropriate Chemical Peel can soften and smooth scarring whilst stimulating cellular renewal for a refreshed and re-texturised complexion.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) promotes rapid skin repair and renewal without the client experiencing any heat or discomfort, making it a highly effective option for laser acne scar removal. LLLT emits a gentle beam to acne scar affected areas and works within the skin to naturally stimulate a healing response, promoting cellular renewal and collagen production. It effectively repairs uneven texture, indentations and raised tissues. LLLT provides a suitable option for acne scar removal, as it targets old scar tissue and all grades of damage.

Skin texture refers to your skin’s surface condition. Good skin texture is soft and smooth, well hydrated with firm collagen and elastin support. Uneven skin texture is coarse, rough, dull, dry and often sun damaged.

Uneven skin texture may be due to wrinkles, fine lines, acne, and acne scars.  Or it may result from sun damage, skin aging, and a poor skin care routine. Sun exposure causes the breakdown of collagen and elastin that gives skin its smooth texture and resiliency. Smoking also damages collagen and elastin and contributes to rough, prematurely aged skin. Aging is another common cause of irregular skin texture. With aging, surface skin cells aren’t shed as rapidly. This causes dead skin cells to build up; leading to skin that feels rough and has a dull appearance. Dry skin that lacks moisture also feels less smooth to the touch.

Poor hydration and nutrition can also cause the skin to dry out and feel uneven.  Uneven skin texture not only feels scratchy, it also makes your complexion look lackluster and dull.

Treatment Solutions:

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an ideal option to unclog the skin due to the deeply exfoliating nature of the treatment. The gentle vacuum with a diamond coated head will exfoliate the top layer of dead skin removing potential clogging whilst providing refined and clarified skin.

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels provide superficial to medium depth exfoliation using products that include glycolic acid and lactic acids (AHAs), salicylic acid (BHA), retinoids (vitamin A), resorcinol , mandelic acid, niacinamide (vitamin B3) and enzymes. The appropriate Chemical Peel can provide a simultaneous action to decongest, de-clog and disinfect skin affected by black heads and whiteheads whilst reducing inflammation and preventing future breakouts.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser that reduces blackhead and whitehead formation and severity without heat or discomfort. Through a course of LLLT treatments the complexion will be clearer and smoother with diffused congestion and reduced breakouts.

Carbon Laser Peel

The Carbon Laser Peel also known as the ‘China Doll Peel’ (named for its porcelain doll like finish to the skin) is an innovative laser resurfacing treatment that utilises focused light beams to treat skin imperfections. The Carbon Laser Peel treatment works by applying a thin layer of carbon to the skin’s surface. Once evenly distributed, a focused light beam is emitted for a precise and targeted area. The carbon particles actively absorb the light before a vacuum suction gently removes them, along with damaged cells found in the upper layers of the skin.

The simultaneous generation of thermal energy stimulates the synthesis of fresh collagen and the promotion of a healthy-looking complexion. Skin structure is visibly strengthened and even opened pores purified and cleared.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Skin pores are tiny openings in the skin that function to release perspiration and oil (sebum) to cool and condition the body. With up to half a million pores per square centimetre on the skin’s surface, the excessive or increased flow of sweat and oil can over stretch the elasticity of the pore, resulting in the appearance of multiple enlarged pores. Pores can become so enlarged that they can create unattractive craters.

Increased sebaceous activity produced during puberty stimulates oil flow particularly on the nose, forehead and chin areas (the T-Zone). Whilst these are traditionally the most common areas for enlarged pores, they can occur anywhere on the body on all skin types and conditions.

Other factors that increase the appearance of enlarged pores include:

• Genetics
• Seborrhoea (excessive, thickened oil flow)
• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Acne
• Extractions or squeezing

Treatment Solutions:

Skin Needling

Skin Needling is an effective method for the reduction of enlarged pores. By safely penetrating deeply into the underlying layers of skin, Skin Needling kick starts the body’s natural wound healing response, producing and distributing new collagen, plumping up the enlarged pore and making them smaller.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion assists in the removal of dead and dry skin cells from the surface of the skin which reduces congestion that leads to enlarged pores. It is especially effective for blackheads that are the main culprits of enlarged pores. This technique also stimulates the growth of collagen, which promotes healthy-looking skin.

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels provide a suitable option to treat mild to moderate enlarged pores. Containing alpha hydroxyl or beta hydroxyl acids, Chemical Peels effectively remove dead skin and promote “new” skin, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser that promotes rapid skin repair and renewal without heat or discomfort. Emitting a gentle beam to the enlarged pore affected areas, LLLT works within the skin to naturally stimulate a healing response which promotes cellular renewal and collagen synthesis. This re-models and repairs uneven texture, indentations and stretched tissues. LLLT provides a suitable option to treat old and excessively stretched pores.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Blackheads, pimples and whiteheads can affect all skins and all ages and may be caused by a combination of genetics, health and environment. They are commonly seen in teenagers and those who are in their early 20’s, however there are cases where blackheads and whiteheads can affect those in their thirties and forties, especially those with oily skin.

Both blackheads and whiteheads are forms of acne. And like all acne, the problem with blackheads and whiteheads starts deep down the sebaceous or oil glands.

The sebaceous glands secrete oils called sebum, which are stored in the follicle. When the follicle is full, the oil overflows keeping the skin healthy and moisturised.

Blackheads and whiteheads form when the oil gets trapped inside the hair follicle causing bacteria to develop in the follicle and leads to forming comedones.

What is the difference between a blackhead and a whitehead?

Blackheads known as open comedones form when:

• Excess sebum (or oil) production is stimulated
• Excess oil, dry skin and debris combine and become trapped in the pore
• The pore becomes plugged and the surface oxidises to a dark brown or black colour giving it the blackhead name.

Whiteheads commonly known as a pimple or closed comedones (which may sometimes be characterised as Grade 1 Acne) form when:

• Excess sebum (or oil) production is stimulated
• Excess oil, dry skin and debris combine and become trapped in the pore
• The pore becomes clogged and P. Acnes (Propionibacterium Acnes) bacteria proliferate creating infection.
• The lack of exposure to the air does not lead to the oxidation of melanin (like a blackhead), so the clogged matter stays white.

Blackheads and whiteheads are not affected by fatty or sugary diets and are a common condition that can be successfully treated.

Treatment Solutions:

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an ideal option for the removal of blackheads and whiteheads due to the deeply exfoliating nature of the treatment. The gentle vacuum with a diamond coated head will exfoliate the top layer of dead skin removing potential clogging whilst providing refined and clarified skin.

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels provide superficial to medium depth exfoliation for black heads and whiteheads using products that include glycolic acid and lactic acids (AHAs), salicylic acid (BHA), retinoids (vitamin A), resorcinol , mandelic acid, niacinamide (vitamin B3) and enzymes. The appropriate Chemical Peel can provide a simultaneous action to decongest, de-clog and disinfect skin affected by black heads and whiteheads whilst reducing inflammation and preventing future breakouts.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser that reduces blackhead and whitehead formation and severity without heat or discomfort. Through a course of LLLT treatments the complexion will be clearer and smoother with diffused congestion and reduced breakouts.

Carbon Laser Peel

The Carbon Laser Peelalso known as the ‘China Doll Peel’ (named for its porcelain doll like finish to the skin) is an innovative laser resurfacing treatment that utilises focused light beams to treat skin imperfections. The Carbon Laser Peel treatment works by applying a thin layer of carbon to the skin’s surface. Once evenly distributed, a focused light beam is emitted for a precise and targeted area. The carbon particles actively absorb the light before a vacuum suction gently removes them, along with damaged cells found in the upper layers of the skin.

The simultaneous generation of thermal energy stimulates the synthesis of fresh collagen and the promotion of a healthy-looking complexion. Skin structure is visibly strengthened and even opened pores purified and cleared.

Dry, flaky skin occurs when skin doesn’t retain sufficient moisture. This can happen as a result of frequent bathing, use of harsh soaps, aging, or certain medical conditions. And for those in colder climates, it can stem from cold, dry winter air.

Dry Skin can also be due to build up of dead skin cells. Normally skin cells regenerate every 28 to 30 days. The new skin cells push the dead skin cells to the top layer of the skin. The dead skin cells fall off from the outer layer. However, if there is excess of dead skin cell, they may start accumulating on face giving a dry facial look.

Treatment Solutions:

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a painless procedure that removes the outer layer of dead skin cells that can make skin look dull and dry.

When the skin pores are clean of oil and dirt build up skin care products such as your moisturizer can penetrate deeper and work more effectively to give your skin extra moisture.

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are great exfoliators, removing the dead skin cells and revealing the new, healthy skin underneath. Chemical Peel treatment is a simple but effective treatment that involves applying a liquid solution, that usually includes some form of acid in order to remove the top layer of skin in a safe and controlled way. Chemical Peel treatments come in three basic levels of strength: superficial, medium and deep. These strengths differ in the level of the skin they penetrate, and which strength is right for you depends on your skin type, the condition of your skin, and the type of results you are hoping to achieve.

Skin Needling

The top and middle layers tend to provide the look your skin gives. The dulling of your skin often coincides with imperfections and damage that reside within the epidermis and dermis layers. Skin Needling utilizes fine needles to penetrate these layers of the skin. This leaves the top layer of your skin, the epidermis, intact while fostering the growth of new collagen and elastin. Your skin becomes softer and healthy looking.

Hydrating vitamins can be infused during the Microdermabrasion and Skin Needling treatment to increase the moisture in the skin to give it a softer look and feel.

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections is used to plump and soften the look and feel of the skin by restoring the skins hydrobalance. It improves the elasticity and skin structure and treats crepey skin and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydrators are an injectable treatment that involve tiny molecules of a gel-type substance placed underneath the skin. They work by pulling and holding moisture into the gel particle, which keeps the skin hydrated and boosts the overall skin quality. The result is softer, more hydrated fuller, firmer and more radiant looking skin. Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections can be used on the face, neck, décolletage and hands.

Congestion is a term used to describe skin which has clogged pores. These are seen as blackheads and whiteheads making the bumps and dirty look associated with it. Blackheads are when the clogged substance is close to the surface with the air making them appear black and whiteheads are the deeper ones, harder to treat and not accessible to the air.

There are a number of factors which contribute to clogged pores, including build-up of excess oil & sebum, dead cells which are produced constantly as our cells turnover, environmental pollution, toxins being expelled by the body via your sweat and makeup & skin care products.

Treatment Solutions:

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an ideal option to unclog the skin due to the deeply exfoliating nature of the treatment. The gentle vacuum with a diamond coated head will exfoliate the top layer of dead skin removing potential clogging whilst providing refined and clarified skin.

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels provide superficial to medium depth exfoliation using products that include glycolic acid and lactic acids (AHAs), salicylic acid (BHA), retinoids (vitamin A), resorcinol , mandelic acid, niacinamide (vitamin B3) and enzymes. The appropriate Chemical Peel can provide a simultaneous action to decongest, de-clog and disinfect skin affected by black heads and whiteheads whilst reducing inflammation and preventing future breakouts.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser that reduces blackhead and whitehead formation and severity without heat or discomfort. Through a course of LLLT treatments the complexion will be clearer and smoother with diffused congestion and reduced breakouts.

Carbon Laser Peel

The Carbon Laser Peel also known as the ‘China Doll Peel’ (named for its porcelain doll like finish to the skin) is an innovative laser resurfacing treatment that utilises focused light beams to treat skin imperfections. The Carbon Laser Peel treatment works by applying a thin layer of carbon to the skin’s surface. Once evenly distributed, a focused light beam is emitted for a precise and targeted area. The carbon particles actively absorb the light before a vacuum suction gently removes them, along with damaged cells found in the upper layers of the skin.

The simultaneous generation of thermal energy stimulates the synthesis of fresh collagen and the promotion of a healthy-looking complexion. Skin structure is visibly strengthened and even opened pores purified and cleared.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Medically diagnosed arthritis can affect people of all ages and backgrounds and can create acute pain, stiffness, inflammation and damage to joint cartilage (the tissue that covers the ends of bones, enabling movement) and surrounding areas. Joint weakness and instability often results affecting daily function and mobility.

The most common forms of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Juvenile arthritis

Treatment Solution:

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT can be performed as an alternative method or in conjunction with your current medical treatment, in the relief of arthritis and promotes rapid cell production, increased blood flow and repair to the arthritis affected areas without heat or discomfort. LLLT promotes cellular renewal to provide relief to aching joints. The treatment area becomes more mobile and flexible with reduced pain and swelling.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

As we get older we start to notice that our once smooth, firm and supple skin struggles to retain its youthful appearance.

Natural defence mechanisms, such as collagen and the elastin, begin to break down when we reach our 30s, and suddenly we see all the small lines and wrinkles that weren’t there before. While collagen gives body tissue shape, firmness and strength, elastin supplies the skin with much needed flexibility. So when we reach an age where they both start breaking down, our skin becomes more vulnerable to external factors such as sunlight and pollution, emotional strain and occasional sleeplessness. Bad habits such as smoking and not using SPF protection can accelerate our skin’s aging process.

Aging skin can be characterised by a loss of firmness, tone and elasticity, creating the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation.

Skin aging can and will occur naturally or can be brought on prematurely by external factors or the environment around us.

From our late teens, collagen and elastin production starts to slow down, becoming even slower after age 30 – fine lines start to appear which later develop into deeper wrinkles. As collagen is responsible for skin firmness and tone – and elastin responsible for elasticity – the reduction in their production can also create sagging and hollowing. The skin’s natural renewal process also starts to slow down, creating a dull and sallow complexion.

The number one cause of premature aging is sun damage from UV exposure. Just a few minutes a day of exposure can create the acceleration of collagen breakdown, stimulate pigmentation and age spots whilst increasing the appearance of uneven skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles and rough texture.

Other factors that contribute to premature aging include:

• Smoking
• Sleeping positions
• Diet
• Exercise

Smoking is attributed to be the second highest cause of external and internal aging and constricts blood vessels reducing blood flow to cells and therefore reducing nutrients and oxygen to the cells whilst stimulating free radical activity.

Treatment Solutions:

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Anti-Wrinkle Injections are a muscle relaxant, which blocks nerve signals and reduces muscular contraction. The treatment helps to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and fine lines. The most popular areas of treatment include the forehead, glabella (frown lines between the eyebrows) and crow’s feet. Treatment may also be performed to sagging jowls and to rejuvenate the jawline and neck area.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers are an injection designed to add volume and help to create a lifted, firmer and contoured appearance. The most popular areas of treatment include lips, cheek bones, tear troughs (under eyes), nasolabial folds (smile lines from the nose to the mouth) and marionette lines (from the mouth to the chin). Treatment may also be performed to increase skin hydration.

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections is used to help plump and soften the look and feel of the skin by restoring the skins hydro balance. It improves the elasticity and skin structure and treats crepey skin and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydrators are an injectable treatment that involve tiny molecules of a gel-type substance placed underneath the skin. They work by pulling and holding moisture into the gel particle, which keeps the skin hydrated and boosts the overall skin quality. The result is softer, more hydrated fuller and firmer looking skin. Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections can be used on the face, neck, décolletage and hands.

V2 Skin Booster Injections

V2 Skin Booster otherwise known as Beauty Booster is an injectable hydration treatment, for rejuvenating dry, dull skin affected by fine lines and wrinkles. It combines skin needling with dermal filler for firmer, hydrated skin. The treatment is regenerative, replenishing lost hydration and nutrients to the skin, resulting in a thicker more elastic dermis. The treatment uses needle injections to deliver a serum into the sub-dermal layer of the skin, in a fast and even manner to coat the layer of the skin. The V2 injector gun uses multi-needles, allowing for the procedure to be performed in a short treatment time.

Skin Needling

Skin Needling used fine needles to safely penetrate deeply into the underlying layers of skin. It promotes the body’s natural wound healing response within, producing and distributing new collagen, elastin and skin hydration to provide a smoother and even surface. Skin Needling can provide long lasting wrinkle correction and reduce the appearance of pigmentation, fine lines, uneven tone and the loss of elasticity.

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation is performed with a medical-grade Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). Using a specific light designed to stimulate collagen, the light is transformed into heat energy that can treat fine lines, wrinkles and uneven texture without harming the skin’s surface.

*Photo Rejuvenation is most suitable for fair to olive complexions; dark to very dark complexions are not suitable for treatment*

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion superficially smooths and refines aged and wrinkled skins. The mechanical exfoliation provides a softened and refreshed complexion whilst the vacuum assists with lymphatic drainage to reduce puffiness and to promote a clearer complexion. Microdermabrasion is a suitable option to treat prematurely aged complexions.

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are able to provide an appropriate option to treat premature and established aging. Chemical Peels can provide a simultaneous action to soften and smooth fine lines and wrinkles whilst stimulating cellular renewal for a revitalised and re-texturised complexion.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT uses a medical grade cold laser and provides a suitable option to treat premature and established aging. By emitting a gentle beam to age affected areas, it works within the skin to naturally promote a regenerating response to promote cellular renewal and collagen/elastin synthesis to re-model and plump sagging tissues.

Laser Facial

Laser Facial uses Q-Switched Laser technology which uses combination of high power and short pulse widths (less than 20 nanoseconds – one nanosecond is equivalent to one billionth of a second) that deliver energy throughout the layers of the epidermis, faster than the normal relaxation time of the tissue. This process helps to stimulate to produce natural collagen and other vital proteins to reduce fine lines and wrinkle, giving it a healthy and youthful appearance.

Fibroblast

Fibroblast is a revolutionary non-surgical, skin lifting and tightening treatment. Fibroblast treatments contract and tighten the surface skin tissue, creating immediate lift and dramatic skin tightening. By firstly rejuvenating the outer layer of skin – known as the epidermis, the Fibroblast treatment replaces old skin cells with beautiful new ones, then stimulating collagen and elastin production and strengthening, plumping and lifting the facial structure.

Which Treatment is Best for Wrinkles & Fine Lines?

Which treatment is best will ultimately depend on factors such as the condition of the skin, the extent of ageing, and which specific areas require treatment. For example, for under eye bags and lines, dermal fillers under eyes are a good choice, while for an overall anti-aging effect, Skin Booster Injections or Photo Rejuvenation may be recommended. In your initial consultation, we will advise you on the recommended treatment/s for your specific skin.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

From our late teens, collagen and elastin production starts to slow down, further reducing at a rapid rate from age 30. Not only do fine lines and wrinkles develop, but facial volume, plumpness and firmness dramatically decreases due to loss of fat. As collagen is responsible for skin firmness and tone, whilst elastin provides the skin with elasticity, the reduction in their production can further create sagging and facial hollowing. Contributors to the reduction of facial volume include:

• Genetics
• Natural Ageing Process
• Sun damage
• Environmental aggressors
• Smoking
• Hormonal imbalances
• Illness
• Certain medications and medical conditions
• Dramatic weight loss/ Frequent weight loss

Areas that may be treated to restore facial volume include:

• Cheeks
• Lips
• Under eye area
• Naso-labial folds (lines from the nose to the lips)
• Marionettes (lines from the lips to the chin)

Treatment Solutions:

Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers is an injectable treatment that works by plumping up the skin and make it firmer and smoothing out lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. It assists in adding volume to the areas of the face that has lost volume due to age or genetics. Results can last between six to twelve months. Some patients may experience temporary redness or bruising at the site of injection, but these symptoms are not painful and pass quickly.

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections is used to plump and soften the look and feel of the skin by restoring the skins hydrobalance. It improves the elasticity and skin structure and treats crepey skin and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydrators are an injectable treatment that involve tiny molecules of a gel-type substance placed underneath the skin. They work by pulling and holding moisture into the gel particle, which keeps the skin hydrated and boosts the overall skin quality. The result is softer, more hydrated fuller, firmer and more radiant looking skin. Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections can be used on the face, neck, décolletage and hands.

Thread Lift

Thread Lifting is the latest technology to help with facial retightening and collagen regeneration. This treatment helps to create desired facial contour and lift through the action of resorbable sutures (resorbable sutures are safe medical threads commonly used to hold, mould and seal epidermis / dermis skin tissue). The suture (thread) acts as scaffolding under the surface of the skin to lift sagging soft skin tissue. The cones hold the suture (thread) in place. The components of the suture (thread) and cones are totally reabsorbed by the body and in time stimulate the body’s production of collagen to replace depleted facial volume, which diminishes with age. Thread Lift can be used on the neck, jaw line, cheeks, eyebrows and malar area .

Skin Needling

Skin Needling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), is a special regenerating treatment that safely penetrates deep into the underlying layers of skin, aiding the repair and rejuvenation of troubled areas. Based on acupuncture, and using multiple needles that differ in size, Skin Needling kick starts the body’s natural wound healing response underneath the skin. Skin Needling promotes the renewal of fresh collagen and elastin which provides skin hydration and can effectively smooth, plump up and even skin surface. Increasing treatments can provide long lasting plumpness and fullness to reduce the appearance of gaunt, hollow or ageing contours.

Fibroblast

Fibroblast is a revolutionary non-surgical, skin lifting and tightening treatment. Fibroblast treatments contract and tighten the surface skin tissue, creating immediate lift and dramatic skin tightening. By firstly rejuvenating the outer layer of skin – known as the epidermis, the Fibroblast treatment replaces old skin cells with beautiful new ones, then stimulating collagen and elastin production and strengthening, plumping and lifting the facial structure.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

The aging process affects not only skin texture and tone, but can reduce dental structural support and skin volume. This can result in thinning lips with less volume, surrounded by smaller vertical lip lines created through repetitive movement. Along with natural aging, the effects of sun damage, smoking and pursing the lips all contribute to the loss of volume, shape and vertical lines. Thin lips can also be associated with your genes, lip enhancement can achieve symmetry and add volume to balance out the shape of the lips.

Lip Fillers can create:

• Aesthetic volume and projection
• Enhanced shape and size
• Replaced volume to thinner lips
• Increased hydration for improved comfort

Treatment Solution:

Dermal Fillers

Designed to help add volume and create fuller, firmer lips. This lip augmentation treatment may also be performed to increase skin hydration, providing moisturised and comfortable lips.

Australian Laser & Skin Clinics offer a variety of Dermal Fillers and injections that create varying levels of volume depending on your own preferences, from natural to dramatic. Results last between three to twelve months. Some patients may experience temporary redness or bruising at the site of injection, but these symptoms are not painful and pass quickly.

Lip enhancement maintenance sessions are required every 3 to 12 months, and a customised treatment plan by one of our registered nurses can be designed during an extensive skin consultation at one of our clinics.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

The hands can often show more accelerated signs of ageing than the face. This may be characterised by age spots, thin dry skin and a veiny appearance.

Natural ageing is responsible for the slower production of collagen and elastin. This can create dry hands with visible skin thinness, primarily on the back of the hands. Further loss of elasticity creates a crepey effect, often making the skin appear semi-transparent.

External factors and the environment around us can contribute to roughened skin texture and the appearance of age spots or pigmentation that occurs on the back of the hands.

Treatment Solutions:

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo rejuvenation is a non-invasive treatment performed with a medical-grade Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). Utilising a specific light designed to remove pigmentation, the light is transformed into heat energy that can reduce the appearance of age spots, freckles or uneven skin texture. Treatment may be performed on the back of the hands without harming the skin’s surface.

**Photo Rejuvenation is most suitable for fair to olive complexions; dark to very dark skin tones are not suitable for treatment**

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections is used to plump and soften the look and feel of the skin by restoring the skins hydrobalance. It improves the elasticity and skin structure and treats crepey skin and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydrators are an injectable treatment that involve tiny molecules of a gel-type substance placed underneath the skin. They work by pulling and holding moisture into the gel particle, which keeps the skin hydrated and boosts the overall skin quality. The result is softer, more hydrated fuller, firmer and more radiant looking skin. Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections can be used on the face, neck, décolletage and hands.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

The neck area receives as much environmental exposure and sun damage as the face leading to ageing on the face and back of the hands. Some of the most accelerated signs of ageing on the neck are sagging, wrinkles and pigmentation. Factors that accelerate ageing of the neck area include:

• Genetics
• Sun damage
• Application of perfume (which can create skin hyperpigmentation)

These factors combined with loss of collagen and elastin and accumulation of fat, the neck and the décolletage areas are particularly prone to signs of ageing that can lead to:

• Pigmentation and Sun Damage: Age spots, freckles and discolouration from the sun
• Neck Fat and Sagging Skin: This leads to the dreaded double chin
• Lines and Wrinkles
• Neck Bands: When the muscles in the middle of your neck start to sag and distort the neck shape.

Treatment Solutions:

Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers is an injectable treatment that can help firm and create a smoother neck and assist with fullness and decrease neck skin laxity. Treatment may also be performed to increase skin hydration and to re-densify gaunt or veiny skin.

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Anti-Wrinkle Injections assist with firming, lifting and tightening for the neck area and are especially effective on neck bands. The injection is a muscle relaxant which blocks nerve signals and reduces muscular contraction, resulting in the reduced appearance of neck bands and a lifted neck and jawline area.

Thread Lift

Thread Lifting is the latest technology (using Silhouette Soft®) to help with facial retightening and collagen regeneration. This treatment helps to create desired facial contour and lift through the action of resorbable sutures (resorbable sutures are safe medical threads commonly used to hold, mould and seal epidermis / dermis skin tissue). The suture (thread) acts as scaffolding under the surface of the skin to lift sagging soft skin tissue. The cones hold the suture (thread) in place. The components of the suture (thread) and cones are totally reabsorbed by the body and in time stimulate the body’s production of collagen to replace depleted facial volume, which diminishes with age. Thread Lift can be used on the neck, jaw line, cheeks, eyebrows and malar area .

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment performed to combat uneven skin tone and pigmentation that can occur on the neck. Utilising a specific light designed to target neck pigmentation, the light is transformed into heat energy that can treat the areas of uneven skin tone and pigmentation without harming the skin’s surface.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Age spots also known as liver spots, sun spots or solar lentigo become an unwanted consequence of sun exposure and the skin’s natural ageing process. Presenting as areas of uneven skin tone or pigmentation, age spots result when excess melanin (skin pigment) has been stimulated.

How do age spots form?

The main factors that contribute to this age spots include:

• Sun damage / exposure
• Age

Age spots are not just restricted to the facial area and are commonly present on the shoulders, neck, décolletage, backs of the hands or any sun-exposed areas.

Treatment Solutions:

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation is an extremely effective treatment against age spots that can appear on various parts of the body. Performed with our Medical Grade Intense Pulsed Light Laser or IPL, Photo Rejuvenation is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to absorb melanin (the dark pigment) that appears in age spots. This light converts to heat, which damages the target cells without upsetting the skins surface. After treatment of age spots they will go darker, then will fall off within 7 to 28 days (depending on the area of the body) or will just gradually fade.

**Photo Rejuvenation is most suitable for fair to olive complexions; dark to very dark skin tones are not suitable for treatment**

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are an ideal choice for the treatment of age spots, particularly for lighter coloured spots. There are a number of Chemical Peels that are specifically formulated to help with the reduction of age spots and even out overall skin tone, while leaving the skin hydrated.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT gently assists in the reduction and formation of age spots without heat or discomfort. Emitting a gentle beam to areas affected by age spots, LLLT works within the skin to balance over-active melanocytes (pigment producing cells) and sun damaged cells.

Laser Facial

Laser Facial uses Q-Switched Laser technology which uses combination of high power and short pulse widths (less than 20 nanoseconds – one nanosecond is equivalent to one billionth of a second) that deliver energy throughout the layers of the epidermis, faster than the normal relaxation time of the tissue. This process safely breaks down and shatters small particles comprising the discolouration or skin lesion, which are then later removed by the body’s immune system.

The face treatments can be extremely effective for those with lighter skin tones, elastic and non-oily skin. They work well for addressing skin concerns such as lines, wrinkles, uneven pigmentation and superficial facial scarring. However, the procedure is not suitable for those suffering from active acne.

Carbon Laser Peel

Carbon Laser Peel is the application of specialised laser energy to reduce visible skin age spots, pigmentation and improve skin tone.

The laser energy works in two ways, first it gently targets the melanin (pigmentation/age spots) in the cells breaking it up for your body’s natural removal processes, and second it heats deep in the dermis causing the skin to contract and stimulate collagen.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Skin that has lost its spring isn’t the result of just one cause. Several factors are likely responsible for making your once supple skin appear tired and droopy.

The most common cause of sagging skin is aging. As you age, your skin loses the collagen and elastin, your skin’s supportive connective tissue, that make it look soft, plump and youthful. In addition, facial muscles can weaken with age, which takes a toll too.

Sun exposure is another reason for skin losing its elasticity. The sun’s powerful rays damage skin cells which, over time, this can increase the effects of aging.

Treatment Solution:

Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers is an injectable treatment that works by plumping up the skin and make it firmer and smoothing out lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. It assists in adding volume to the areas of the face that has lost volume due to age or genetics. Results can last between six to twelve months. Some patients may experience temporary redness or bruising at the site of injection, but these symptoms are not painful and pass quickly.

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections

Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections is used to plump and soften the look and feel of the skin by restoring the skins hydrobalance. It improves the elasticity and skin structure and treats crepey skin and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydrators are an injectable treatment that involve tiny molecules of a gel-type substance placed underneath the skin. They work by pulling and holding moisture into the gel particle, which keeps the skin hydrated and boosts the overall skin quality. The result is softer, more hydrated fuller, firmer and more radiant looking skin. Skin Hydration & Plumping Injections can be used on the face, neck, décolletage and hands.

Thread Lift

Thread Lifting is the latest technology to help with facial retightening and collagen regeneration. This treatment helps to create desired facial contour and lift through the action of resorbable sutures (resorbable sutures are safe medical threads commonly used to hold, mould and seal epidermis / dermis skin tissue). The suture (thread) acts as scaffolding under the surface of the skin to lift sagging soft skin tissue. The cones hold the suture (thread) in place. The components of the suture (thread) and cones are totally reabsorbed by the body and in time stimulate the body’s production of collagen to replace depleted facial volume, which diminishes with age. Thread Lift can be used on the neck, jaw line, cheeks, eyebrows and malar area .

Skin Needling

Skin Needling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), is a special regenerating treatment that safely penetrates deep into the underlying layers of skin, aiding the repair and rejuvenation of troubled areas. Based on acupuncture, and using multiple needles that differ in size, Skin Needling kick starts the body’s natural wound healing response underneath the skin. Skin Needling promotes the renewal of fresh collagen and elastin which provides skin hydration and can effectively smooth, plump up and even skin surface. Increasing treatments can provide long lasting plumpness and fullness to reduce the appearance of gaunt, hollow or ageing contours.

Fibroblast

Fibroblast is a revolutionary non-surgical, skin lifting and tightening treatment. Fibroblast treatments contract and tighten the surface skin tissue, creating immediate lift and dramatic skin tightening. By firstly rejuvenating the outer layer of skin – known as the epidermis, the Fibroblast treatment replaces old skin cells with beautiful new ones, then stimulating collagen and elastin production and strengthening, plumping and lifting the facial structure.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

While they can be unsightly, depending on where they form there is no real cause for health concerns from skin tags. They’re quite common and can form anywhere on the skin, but are most commonly found on the eyelids, neck and armpits. Cryotherapy is a relatively pain-free skin tag removal solution in which the base is frozen with nitrous oxide. This causes the tag to blister and drop off after a few days. But don’t worry – removing skin tags from the body won’t cause more to form.

Treatment Solution:

Cryotherapy

Dermapen™ Cryotherapy delivers a fine, targeted, ultra-cold mist (temperature -89 degrees Celsius) of nitrous oxide gas at a high pressure to effortlessly and painlessly treat a variety of unwanted skin lesions. The pinpoint accuracy of a cryo pen provides greater precision and comfort (compared with liquid nitrogen therapy), creating greater treatment versatility and results. Treatments are fast, comfortable and effective for imperfections found on facial and body skin, making it the perfect treatment for freezing warts and skin tags.

The longer the mist is sprayed onto a lesion with the cryo pen, the deeper the absorption and active penetration. Multi-treatment tips enable versatile precision to treat a variety of lesion sizes and depths. Unlike traditional Cryotherapy, the tip does not directly touch the lesion. This enables far greater comfort, accelerated healing and a more precise delivery system. The nitrous oxide treats damaged tissue by freezing inter cellular fluid, helping to speed up the removal of skin tags, moles and other skin concerns.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES/ SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT?

Though it’s important to have any unusual lesions checked out by a medical professional to ensure they don’t change form over time, a benign mole or beauty spot is unlikely to pose a health risk. Moles are typically round or oval in shape and are often symmetrical. Whether it’s a flat mole or a raised mole, they tend to be just one shade, often brown or skin coloured, and will have clearly defined borders unlike more sinister spots on the body. People utilise Cryotherapy for scarless mole removal for cosmetic purposes only, as they typically require no treatment for health reasons.

TREATMENT SOLUTION: CRYOTHERAPY

Cryotherapy delivers a fine, targeted, ultra-cold mist (temperature -89 degrees Celsius) of nitrous oxide gas at a high pressure to effortlessly and painlessly treat a variety of unwanted skin lesions. The pinpoint accuracy of a cryo pen provides greater precision and comfort (compared with liquid nitrogen therapy), creating greater treatment versatility and scarless results for body and facial mole removal. Treatments are fast, comfortable and effective for imperfections found on facial and body skin, making it the perfect treatment for freezing a beauty spot or mole.

The longer the mist is sprayed onto a lesion with the cryo pen, the deeper the absorption and active penetration. Multi-treatment tips enable versatile precision to treat a variety of lesion sizes and depths. Unlike traditional Cryotherapy, the tip does not directly touch the lesion. This enables far greater comfort, accelerated healing and a more precise delivery system. The nitrous oxide treats damaged tissue by freezing inter cellular fluid, helping to speed up the removal of skin tags, moles and other skin concerns. The Cryotherapy mole removal cost is also affordable, making body or facial mole removal for multiple lesions feasible for more people.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

A wart is a small growth with a rough texture that can appear anywhere on the body. It can look like a solid blister or a small cauliflower. Warts are caused by viruses in the human papillomavirus (HPV) family. The appearance of a wart depends on its location on the body and the thickness of the skin. Palmar warts appear on the hand. Plantar warts affect the feet. People with a weakened immune system are more likely to have warts.

Treatment Solution:

Cryothetapy

Dermapen™ Cryotherapy delivers a fine, targeted, ultra-cold mist (temperature -89 degrees Celsius) of nitrous oxide gas at a high pressure to effortlessly and painlessly treat a variety of unwanted skin lesions. The pinpoint accuracy of a cryo pen provides greater precision and comfort (compared with liquid nitrogen therapy), creating greater treatment versatility and results. Treatments are fast, comfortable and effective for imperfections found on facial and body skin, making it the perfect treatment for freezing warts and skin tags.

The longer the mist is sprayed onto a lesion with the cryo pen, the deeper the absorption and active penetration. Multi-treatment tips enable versatile precision to treat a variety of lesion sizes and depths. Unlike traditional Cryotherapy, the tip does not directly touch the lesion. This enables far greater comfort, accelerated healing and a more precise delivery system. The nitrous oxide treats damaged tissue by freezing inter cellular fluid, helping to speed up the removal of skin tags, moles and other skin concerns.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Otherwise known as a ‘seborrhoeic verruca’ or a ‘senile wart’, seborrhoeic keratoses are non-cancerous, benign skin growths that appear – much like age spots – to be more prominent among older people. They can appear in a range of colours (from light tan to black) and sizes, though they will usually be round or oval in shape. There is no known cause for seborrhoeic keratoses, though it is possibly UV related due to their prevalence on areas of the body that receive a lot of sun exposure. Effective seborrhoeic keratoses removal can be achieved with Cryotherapy.

Treatment Solution:

Cryothetapy

Dermapen™ Cryotherapy delivers a fine, targeted, ultra-cold mist (temperature -89 degrees Celsius) of nitrous oxide gas at a high pressure to effortlessly and painlessly treat a variety of unwanted skin lesions. The pinpoint accuracy of a cryo pen provides greater precision and comfort (compared with liquid nitrogen therapy), creating greater treatment versatility and results. Treatments are fast, comfortable and effective for imperfections found on facial and body skin, making it the perfect treatment for freezing various skin lesions.

The longer the mist is sprayed onto a lesion with the cryo pen, the deeper the absorption and active penetration. Multi-treatment tips enable versatile precision to treat a variety of lesion sizes and depths. Unlike traditional Cryotherapy, the tip does not directly touch the lesion. This enables far greater comfort, accelerated healing and a more precise delivery system. The nitrous oxide treats damaged tissue by freezing inter cellular fluid, helping to speed up the removal of skin tags, moles and other skin concerns.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Named for their bright red colour and round shape, cherry angiomas are fairly common skin growths that are typically found on men or women over the age of 30. Their red appearance is caused by broken blood vessels found inside the growth. Also known as ‘senile angiomas’ or ‘Campbell de Morgan spots’, they are not regarded as a health risk but should nevertheless be monitored to ensure they don’t change colour or shape over time. Fortunately, Cryotherapy is an effective cherry angiomas treatment method, resulting in successful removal.

Treatment Solution:

Cryothetapy

Dermapen™ Cryotherapy delivers a fine, targeted, ultra-cold mist (temperature -89 degrees Celsius) of nitrous oxide gas at a high pressure to effortlessly and painlessly treat a variety of unwanted skin lesions. The pinpoint accuracy of a cryo pen provides greater precision and comfort (compared with liquid nitrogen therapy), creating greater treatment versatility and results. Treatments are fast, comfortable and effective for imperfections found on facial and body skin, making it the perfect treatment for freezing various skin lesions.

The longer the mist is sprayed onto a lesion with the cryo pen, the deeper the absorption and active penetration. Multi-treatment tips enable versatile precision to treat a variety of lesion sizes and depths. Unlike traditional Cryotherapy, the tip does not directly touch the lesion. This enables far greater comfort, accelerated healing and a more precise delivery system. The nitrous oxide treats damaged tissue by freezing inter cellular fluid, helping to speed up the removal of skin tags, moles and other skin concerns.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Often experienced by adults who are middle aged or older, sebaceous hyperplasia is a benign condition affecting the sebaceous glands. The condition causes yellow bumps with a cauliflower appearance to appear in various locations on the body, including the face and chest. These are thought to be caused by enlarged and displaced oil glands.

Treatment Solution:

Cryothetapy

Dermapen™ Cryotherapy delivers a fine, targeted, ultra-cold mist (temperature -89 degrees Celsius) of nitrous oxide gas at a high pressure to effortlessly and painlessly treat a variety of unwanted skin lesions. The pinpoint accuracy of a cryo pen provides greater precision and comfort (compared with liquid nitrogen therapy), creating greater treatment versatility and results. Treatments are fast, comfortable and effective for imperfections found on facial and body skin, making it the perfect treatment for freezing various skin lesions.

The longer the mist is sprayed onto a lesion with the cryo pen, the deeper the absorption and active penetration. Multi-treatment tips enable versatile precision to treat a variety of lesion sizes and depths. Unlike traditional Cryotherapy, the tip does not directly touch the lesion. This enables far greater comfort, accelerated healing and a more precise delivery system. The nitrous oxide treats damaged tissue by freezing inter cellular fluid, helping to speed up the removal of skin tags, moles and other skin concerns

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Solar/actinic keratoses are patches of thick scaly skin that are caused by damage from the sun’s UV rays. These are often found on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, lips and back of the hands. Left untreated, this skin problem can develop into skin cancer, making it vital to seek treatment as soon as possible. Prior to receiving solar keratosis treatment, you will need to be given the all clear by a doctor.

Treatment Solution:

Cryothetapy

Dermapen™ Cryotherapy delivers a fine, targeted, ultra-cold mist (temperature -89 degrees Celsius) of nitrous oxide gas at a high pressure to effortlessly and painlessly treat a variety of unwanted skin lesions. The pinpoint accuracy of a cryo pen provides greater precision and comfort (compared with liquid nitrogen therapy), creating greater treatment versatility and results. Treatments are fast, comfortable and effective for imperfections found on facial and body skin, making it the perfect treatment for freezing various skin lesions.

The longer the mist is sprayed onto a lesion with the cryo pen, the deeper the absorption and active penetration. Multi-treatment tips enable versatile precision to treat a variety of lesion sizes and depths. Unlike traditional Cryotherapy, the tip does not directly touch the lesion. This enables far greater comfort, accelerated healing and a more precise delivery system. The nitrous oxide treats damaged tissue by freezing inter cellular fluid, helping to speed up the removal of skin tags, moles and other skin concerns.

WHAT ARE STRETCH MARKS? WHAT ARE THE CAUSES/ SYMPTOMS AND/OR SIGNS?

Stretch marks (striae) are a type of scar that occurs when rapid tearing of the dermis stretches collagen fibres. Able to affect all skin types, conditions and colours, stretch marks may appear as red or purple lines that fade to a white / silver colour. As stretch marks are a condition of the dermis, the superficial application of moisturiser to the epidermis has little effect when it comes to preventing, reducing or removing stretch marks.

Stretch marks occur when the skin is pulled by rapid growth or stretching. Although our skin is fairly resilient, when it’s overstretched, the normal production of collagen is disrupted. As a result, stretch marks can form. A number of causes promote the formation and appearance of stretch marks, with the main causes being:

• Rapid weight gain or loss / Rapid body growth during puberty
  Stretch marks may occur during various phases of life, but usually start in young teens going through puberty. As the body grows and expands, we experience stretch marks as particular parts of the body such as breasts and hips grow and the skin can only stretch so much. When people gain weight, the skin is overstretched and the collagen in the skin is changed. This results in the formation of stretch marks.
• Pregnancy
  Medically known as striae gravidarum, ninety per cent of pregnant women get stretch marks due to the rapid growth of the baby causing the abdominal area to stretch. This usually occurs in the third trimester, as the abdominal skin is forced to accommodate the growing uterus. Some pregnant women also develop stretch marks on the breasts, hips, buttocks and thighs. These often remain after pregnancy, which is why we’re approached by many new mothers seeking assistance with removing stretch marks.

Stretch marks often vary in colour and can be anywhere from a few centimetres to a few inches long. They most commonly appear on:

• Abdomen
• Breasts
• Upper Arms
• Thighs
• Hips
• Buttocks

Treatment Solutions:

Skin Needling

Skin Needling has been performed for many years, and can be used safely for stretch mark removal. Skin Needling is based on acupuncture and uses a specialised device that differs in size to accommodate the areas and concern being treated. The process encourages the production and distribution of new collagen that will progressively remodel the stretch mark, greatly reducing its appearance.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT promotes rapid skin repair and renewal without heat or discomfort, making it an ideal procedure to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Emitting a gentle beam to affected areas, LLLT works within the skin to naturally stimulate a healing response, which aids in removing stretch marks. Promoting cellular renewal and collagen, uneven texture and raised tissues start to repair, resulting in stretch mark removal.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Psoriasis is a condition where skin cells are produced and shed off in scales or flakes too quickly resulting in thick patches of white, silver or red skin. These patches (or plaque) create increased inflammation, itching and flaking of the skin. Psoriasis patches can range in size and most often appears on the forehead, scalp, knees, elbows, lower back, hands and feet. Psoriasis is most common in adults. Whilst psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that is not contagious, triggers that can affect flare-ups include:

• Very cold or very hot climates
• Stress
• Dry skim
• Smoking
• Certain medications

Whilst psoriasis cannot be cured, symptoms may be easily treated for long term relief.

Treatment Solution:

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser that promotes increased immunity and intensive repair without heat or discomfort. Emitting a gentle beam to psoriasis affected areas, LLLT reconstructs damages cells to reduce inflammation, stabilise redness and itching whilst promoting strength and relief to inflamed and painful flare-ups, reduced discomfort. LLLT treatments are recommended at the very first signs of a psoriasis flare up.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Rosacea is a non-contagious skin inflammation that primarily affects the facial area. Surface capillaries dilate; creating a red flush that may be accompanied by small pustules and lumps. The most severe cases of Rosacea can create an enlarged nose, referred to as Rhinophyma. Rosacea is most predominant in skins with Celtic heritage, is three times more common in women and can develop between the ages of 30 and 60.

Whilst there are no official causes of Rosacea, a combination of hereditary and environmental factors can trigger and aggravate its symptoms. Also, there are three possibilities that contribute to the formation of Rosacea. They include:

• Cathelicidins (increased peptide and enzyme activity on the skin’s surface layer)
• Intestinal Bacteria (elevated hydrogen and methane)
• Dermodex Mites on the skin (reaction to faeces)

Whilst rosacea cannot be cured, triggers that can exacerbate symptoms include:

• Heat
• Temperature changes
• Strenuous Exercise
• Sunlight
• Sunburn
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Anger
• Spicy Foods
• Cold
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Histamines (wine, cheese, yoghurt, beer)
• Over-application of aggressive skin care products

Facial rosacea is categorised into four subtypes, each with varying degrees of symptoms:

• Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea – This condition causes flushing, redness and sensitivity. It produces a permanently red face that can become increasingly red quickly. The blood vessels below the surface of the skin can become dilated, causing broken capillaries otherwise known as spider veins. The skin often becomes very sensitive and sufferers may experience an itching or burning sensation.
• Papulopustular Rosacea – permanent redness, red papules and pustules. The appearance of papulopustular is often mistaken for acne as it possesses characteristic similarities.
• Phymatous Rosacea – Rhinophyma (most common in men), skin thickening of chin / cheeks / forehead / nose. This subtype is not as common, however when it does occur, the person will most likely show symptoms of another subtype of Rosacea first. The symptoms include bumpy skin texture, enlarged pores, oily skin and visibly broken blood vessels.
• Ocular Rosacea – This causes an inflammation of the eyes and is commonly accompanied with the skin symptoms of Rosacea. It produces a watery or bloodshot appearance and can feel gritty, as though there is sand in the eyes. Furthermore the eyes may feel dry, itchy, and sensitive to light. It can also sting/burn. Some people experience blurry vision or a cyst on the eyelid.

Treatment Solutions:

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser that promotes increased skin immunity and intensive repair without heat or discomfort. Emitting a gentle cold beam on affected areas, it promotes cell renewal to reduce inflammation and stabilise redness and itching, whilst promoting strength and relief to swollen and sore flare-ups. It is non-abrasive and completely pain-free, however some patients have reported feeling a slight discomfort and tingling sensation.

Photo Rejuvenation

Photo Rejuvenation utilises a specific light designed to target Rosacea. The light is transformed into heat energy that can treat the areas of redness without harming the skin’s surface. Photo rejuvenation is a non-invasive treatment performed with a medical-grade Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). Using multiple wavelengths of light, Photo Rejuvenation treats the dilated blood vessels in the face caused by Rosacea, causing the affected structures to absorb light. It results in the destruction of visible blood vessels, which then become naturally absorbed by the body. Over time, and with the right course of treatment, the redness and flushing of the skin that causes Rosacea becomes visibly reduced.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Cold sores (herpes simplex) are small, painful blisters that usually form on the lips or skin around the mouth, nose and on the chin. Formed by infection of the herpes simplex virus, initial exposure usually occurs in childhood and is characterised by the re-current formation of outbreaks particularly during times of low immunity, increased stress or direct trauma to the lip area (i.e Sun burn). The cold sore virus cannot be cured and remains active for life.

Whilst 90% of adults have herpes simplex antibodies in their system, only one-third may present with cold sores. Transmission is via saliva or direct contact with a blister. The most infectious period is the first couple of days as the blister forms. The frequency of outbreak is individual but may be triggered by:

• Illness
• Over exposure to sunlight
• Exposure to windy or cold conditions
• Hormonal changes
• Stress (either emotional or physical)
• Trauma to the lip area

As the cold sore virus is indicative of ongoing infection rather than primary infection, outbreaks usually recur in the same location.

The symptoms of an outbreak include:

• Localised itching and tingling a day or two before the cold sore appears.
• A collection of small blisters form
• These blisters can be accompanied by pain, tenderness and a sensation of heat and burning.
• The blisters burst after a few days.
• The site develops a crust.
• The crust dries up and eventually falls off after about 7 to 10 days.

Treatment Solution:

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a remarkably effective non-thermal or “Cold” laser therapy designed to treat conditions that can cause destruction to the outer layers of the skin (including cold sores). A gentle beam of light targets the cold sore affected areas which stimulates, regulates and accelerates cell function in order to heal and restore damaged tissue in the cold sore and preventing further outbreaks.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a recurring, non-infectious, inflammatory skin condition that affects nearly one third of the population at some stage of their lives.

Affecting people of all ages and skin types, eczema usually beings to appear in very early childhood and continues into adulthood characterised with acute red, dry, itchy and scaly skin that may develop into weeping, bleeding and crusting. The most severe forms of eczema may include the infection of lesions leading on to long-term chronic inflammation. Eczema can appear anywhere on the face or body with unpredictable attacks that last with varying duration.

Triggers for eczema may include:

• The topical application of stripping face or body cleansers
• Environmental exposure to cold and wind
• Physical and emotional stress
• Medication
• Skin irritation (woollen garments, friction, allergic reaction)

Treatment Solution:

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser which can aid in the treatment of eczema in conjunction with your current medical regime, by promoting rapid cell production, increasing immunity and repairing the damaged areas without heat or discomfort. LLLT can reduce inflammation, stabilise stinging or itching and promote cellular renewal to provide strength and relief to swollen and dry eczema outbreaks.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

The lymphatic system is the body’s waste removal system that releases pathogens and debris into specific lymph nodes where the body’s natural immune defence is able to process and remove any potential issues. Unlike the circulatory system which contains a pulse mechanism (regulated by the heart) to transport blood, the lymphatic system relies on the movement of surrounding muscles to transport lymph and gravity which is why it is common in arms and legs. When the lymph becomes stagnant or pools within the nodes during times of sluggish processing or illness, lymphoedema or swelling develops. Lymphoedema can accumulate anywhere on the body including the legs and arms, however pockets of swelling and fluid underneath the eyes, the sides of the face and on the neck can create unwanted puffiness and a sluggish immune response.

Treatment Solution:

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a medical grade cold laser that normalises cellular and systemic function without heat or discomfort. Emitting a gentle beam to swollen or lymphoedema affected areas, LLLT works within the skin to reduce inflammation, increase immunity and stimulates lymphatic drainage to release puffiness and areas holding unnecessary fluid. The area becomes less swollen and effective drainage resumes leaving the skin smoother and re-contoured. LLLT may be performed on all skin types and colours and provides particular relief for post-operative care.

What is it? What are causes/ symptoms and/or signs?

Broken capillaries are commonly referred to as spider veins or medically known as telangiectasia. These tiny, congealed blood vessels can usually be found on the nose, cheeks and chin and are particularly common in thin, sensitive skins.

Broken Capillaries form when multiple small blood vessels near the surface of the skin dilate. Whilst the capillary is not technically broken, weakness in the vessel wall or an imbalance with blood flow creates the pooling and the appearance of small reddened networks like a spider’s web.

The formation of telangiectasia is often genetic, however external and internal aggressors may include:

• Allergies
• Sun damage
• Medication
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• The consumption of spicy food
• Naturally occurring with age

Treatment Solutions:

Photo Rejuvenation

Medical Grade Intense Pulse Light offers an effective solution that minimises and in some cases eliminates the appearance of broken capillaries, causes little discomfort and produces long lasting results with minimal down time. The wavelength discharged through the pulse of the laser enables the light to reach the targeted capillaries or blood vessels under the skin, collapsing the broken capillaries and veins without harming the outer layers of the skin, whilst also improving the overall appearance of the skin tone out encouraging the production of collagen to thicken out the skin.

Perspiration (or sweating) is the human body’s way to regulate temperature and to cool itself down. Sweat is mostly made up of salty water, and in normal circumstances provides an evaporative cooling effect. As the moisture evaporates and disappears, the sensation of coolness quickly follows. This process however is not so simple for all people, whilst most of our bodies may experience the occasional sweaty situation such as nervous palms, some adults can sweat up to 14 litres of perspiration in just one day. Excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that can affect up to 3% of the population. Unlike normal perspiration which is produced when the body is hot, hyperhidrosis is characterised by the excessive production of sweat, even when the body is cool.

Treatment Solutions:

Hyperhidrosis Injections

Hyperhidrosis injections utilise the same active ingredient used for Anti-Wrinkle Injections. Affected regions are isolated and targeted for dramatic and instant results. Sweat gland signals are blocked, providing long-lasting dry and comfortable relief. Surrounding muscles and contours remain unaffected creating uninhibited movement and freedom. Despite common belief, sweat is not transferred to another gland, creating further problems. The over-producing gland is simply stopped.