Dr Ashraf Badawi is a highly respected dermatologist, IMCAS Academy Board Member and IMCAS Alert Coordinator for lasers and EBD. We asked him a few questions about current dermatology trends and using lasers in anti-aging treatments.

What are the most popular services right now in the field of aesthetic dermatology?

Fillers and Botox injections are still the most requested procedures by patients today. However awareness is growing about using lasers and energy based devices (EBD) for rejuvenation purposes as they produce more natural results. Laser assisted hair reduction remains a highly in demand service however the high competition makes it less profitable than it once was.

Are combination treatments common in practice?

Combination treatments are always appreciated. In very rare situations one treatment method might be enough by itself however in the majority of conditions, combination treatments are required.

Take acne scares for example. Using needling or fractional lasers to stimulate collagen synthesis can improve skin condition. However combining this with improving the structure and function of the epidermal barrier will improve the hydration of the skin, which will then impact positively on skin elasticity and smoothness.

In addition, if the patient is in their late 30s, it would also help to add a skin tightening treatment. This will help with the stretching of the skin and improve the appearance of the acne scars. The same principles apply to many other skin conditions like Melasma, wrinkles, and large pores.

What are skin anti-aging treatments and do they really work?

When we are able to restore the structure and function of the skin back to normal, or at least closer to normal, this is called an anti-aging treatment as the changes induced by aging are reversed.

Several studies have shown that people who are treated on a regular bases with lasers and EBDs demonstrate gene expression where the genes responsible for youthful appearance of the skin are active while genes responsible for skin aging are inhibited. In addition, people who have regular treatments, for example 3-4 times per year, do not show the same signs of skin aging as those who do not.

What are the non-invasive lasers that can be used for anti-aging?

We can use many non ablative lasers like Nd:Yag 1064nm laser and pulsed dye lasers. Even IPL (intense pulsed light) can be used on fare skin types for this purpose.

How do non-invasive lasers work on the skin? What changes are made to the to epidermis and dermis?

The lasers stimulate a mild inflammatory reaction. This brings fibroblasts to the treated area. Fibroblasts synthetize new collagen and this then improves the firmness of the skin.

How safe are the non-invasive lasers?

Non-invasive lasers are very safe. The treatment involves mildly heating the skin up to 42 degrees Celsius for 3 minutes. This does not even require topical anesthesia. The patient will have mild erythema for 10-15 minutes after the procedure and that’s it.

What is the worst-case scenario when using non-invasive lasers?

If the technique is not performed correctly, lack of efficacy can be a problem.

Are they considered natural or do they go against a natural skin care regime?

Non-invasive lasers are considered a very natural method for improving the skin as no foreign materials are introduced into the skin. The lasers work on restoring the structure and the function of the skin in a very natural fashion.