No, the acne treatment doesn't hurt, most patients describe it as a mild tingling or warmth, some say they feel a slight stinging 

You'll probably hear a snaping sound as we target the active acne with the laser, that's completely normal and not painful.

Acne scarring treatment may be slightly uncomfortable compared to acne treatment, this is because we're targeting deeper layers of skin and potentially more extensive damage. Some pateints say it's like a rubber band pinging against the skin.

Acne: The number of sessions needed can vary depending on the severity & grade of the acne, individual skin response & healing, skin tone & sensitivity, hormonal activity, and skincare routine. However, 3–5 sessions spaced about 3-4 weeks apart is usually recommended for optimal results. Higher grade or more wide spread acne may need 6-8 sessions.

Acne scarring: The number of sessions needed can vary depending on skin type, individual skin response & healing, the severity, type & depth of the scars, as well as if there is more than one type of scar. Typically 3-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart is recommended for optimal resluts.

No, it ususally takes about 1-2 weeks to start seeing results, some people may not have visible results until after the second treatment.

Full collagen remodeling and scar improvement may take a few months.

• Only mild to moderate acne (grades 1-3) can be treated without seeing a doctor or dermatologist. This is because nodules, cysts, or widespread inflammation often go beyond what a laser can treat safely. Lasers might worsen these conditions or trigger scarring without concurrent medical therapy. Severe cases often need oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy, or isotretinoin, which must be prescribed and monitored by a dermatologist.

• Acne sometimes causes a specific type of scarring called a keloid scar, unfortunately these types of scars can't be treated with laser unless under the direction/recommendation of a doctor or dermatologist. This is because laser treatments, especially those targeting collagen production, may inadvertently stimulate further scar tissue growth & make keloids more prominent or enlarged. Laser therapy can be used, but generally it's in conjuction with a combination of treatments, including steroid injections, surgical excision, and other methods.

Unfortunately there are some medical conditions that would make laser treatments unsafe, these are;

• Lupus
• Immunosuppressive diseases (such as aids/HIV)
• Keloid scarring
• Bleeding/clotting disorders
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Anticoagulant/blood thinning medication
• Uncontolled diabetes 
• Skin cancer 
• Melasma or psoriasis in the treatment area
• Photosensitivity, or any sensitivity to the sun that causes a rash or allergic reaction
• Gold therapy or methotrexate
• Immunosuppressive medications
• Liver disease, such as hepatitis
• History of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation

There are also some medical conditions and medications that prevent laser treatments in the short-term, but providing you have none of the above, you could commence treatment once they were resolved. these are;

• Preghnancy & breastfeeding
• Active skin infections (e.g. eczema, herpes/colds sores)
• Oral Isotretinoin or other prescription acne medication (such as Accutane/Roaccutane) in the last 6 months
• Medical chemical peel, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing or face lift at site of treatment in the last 6 months
• Light sensitive medications/herbal supplements, or perfumes/cosmetics/skincare that affect sensitivity to light
• Use of NSAID's in the last week
• Surgery or anaesthetic in the last 2 weeks
• Open lacerations or abrasions in the treatment area
• Botox or fillers in/under the treatment area
• Chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or radio frequency treatment in the last 4 weeks
• Some types of antibiotics

• No sun-tanning or self-tanners 3-4 weeks prior to treatment  (Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun bathing, etc), and wear sunscreen when out in the sun 

• Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)

• Discontinue use of retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid 7 days before treatment

• Avoid alcohol, smoking and strong painkillers for 24 hours prioir to your appointment 

• Ensure your skin is clean and free of any makeup or lotions before arriving

   

Yes, there are some important ways to take care of your skin and aid healing after treatment, these are;

• Avoid direct sun exposure (sunbathing, holidays, sun beds) for 14-30 days post-treatment
• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) daily
• Avoid active skincare (retinols, AHAs, BHAs), as well as any products containing high levels of vitamin A and glycolic acid for at least 5 days
• Keep the treated area clean and moisturised with a gentle product
• Don’t exfoliate you skin within the first 7 days as it may cause irritation
• Do not pick or scratch at any scabs, crusting, flaking skin or blisters
• Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers/baths, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs for a minimum of 48 hours
• Do not apply makeup for 24–48 hours, or until skin sensitivity has fully resolved
• Avoid harsh skincare or cosmetics on the area until fully healed
• Apply cool compresses as needed for discomfort or swelling

Common side effects can include; temporary redness or mild inflammation, slight flaking or peeling, and rarely, a short-term breakout as pores purge.

Most side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within a few hours to a few days.

Yes, all laser treatments require a full consultation & patch test before the first treatment can go ahead. 

During the consultation we'll discuss your medical history, medications and other influencing factors, to make sure laser is a safe and suitable treatment for your goals.

We will then carry out a patch test to assess your skin sensitivity & response to the laser. This helps determine the appropriate settings for the laser & identify any potential adverse reactions or side effects. 

Please allow up to an hour for the initial consultation appointment.