Dr Mahwish Fawad, a dermatologist and aesthetic physician at South City Hospital, Karachi gives an insight into the latest trends in cosmetic procedures
SN: Which aesthetic treatments are trending in Pakistan these days?sni
Almost all the treatments are getting common and accessible to everyone. Initially most of our clients were models and media persons. But now people from other professions are coming too. Moreover, housewives, mothers, grandmothers and young girls are willing to get aesthetic treatment. Young girls also get consultation for routine products they can use. Also people are now more aware about sunblocks.sni
SN: What is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment?sni
PRP is an anti-aging procedure in which we take patient’s blood and place it in a device. This device separates other contents of blood from platelets. Then platelet rich plasma is taken and injected into the folds of skin, wrinkles or pitted scars or can be combined with other procedures too. Nowadays there is a new process called bio fillers in which plasma is converted into a thicker consistency which gives lasting effect. So PRP works as a filler made up of an individual’s own blood. It contains growth factors that stimulate collagen formation to heal the skin and create a glowing face.sni
SN: Which skin issues can be resolved with chemical and fruit peels?sni
Chemical peels remove the top skin layer which contains dead cells and thus improve skin texture and freshness. They are used to treat acne, melasma, acne scars, fine lines, pigmentation and pores. Furthermore, they are normally used in clinics and are available in different strengths like superficial peel, medium depth peel and deep peel. Enzyme or fruit peels on the other hand are derived from fruit enzymes. They are gentler and can be used at home if the skin is not sensitive. They are used for exfoliation and skin maintenance.sni
SN: Are there any side effects of chemical and fruit peels?sni
There are not much side effects of fruit peels but chemical peels may cause problems if not used correctly. For example, if the skin is not prepared before the procedure, it is damaged or has chances to develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation then chemical peels may cause side effects. Therefore, chemical peeling should always be done at a clinic so the doctor can assess the skin and take medical history before doing the procedure. The procedure can be delayed for a month or so if the patient is not a regular user of sunblock.sni
SN: What is the difference between botox and fillers?sni
Both are completely different. Botox is done where wrinkles come and go with expressions. Botox can also be used in case of migraine or hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). It blocks the nerve endings which weaken up the muscle or sweat glands. Whereas if there is a constant depression on skin even without expressions then filler is used.sni
Fillers are pre-filled hyaluronic acid syringes which are injected under the skin to fill or plump it up. There are different varieties and strengths of fillers. For example, if the skin looks worn out or dehydrated then free hyaluronic acid fillers are used to improve its texture. Then hard fillers are used to reshape nose, chin or jawline. Effects of these fillers last from 6 to 18 months. Another type is non-hyaluronic acid fillers which are injected the same way but work differently. They go inside the skin and stimulate collagen producing cells.sni
SN: Do whitening injections leave a permanent effect?sni
Whitening injections are basically glutathione injections which also contain collagen, peptide and multiple vitamins including vitamin C. Patients often think that these will transform their life and make them fair forever which is not true. Effects of these injections vary individually. Some notice a glow or plump effect whereas others feel their complexion has improved a little. Some do not notice any change as they have high expectations from these injections. Proper counselling of patients is important to avoid disappointment. Also sun protection should not be ignored after these shots.sni
Individuals with sensitive skin are more prone to get sunburn after laser treatment. So they are advised to avoid heat and sun exposure as much as possible after treatment
SN: Can laser stop hair growth permanently?sni
Laser hair removal process has been marketed in a wrong way. It does not stop hair growth rather reduces it. It works well in people with thick and dark hair and fair complexion. With darker complexion and thin hair, we do not get much success but it can vary individually. Some patients might get desired result in four to five sessions and others may need 10-12 sessions.sni
SN: Why and for how long an individual has to stay indoors after laser treatment?sni
Individuals with sensitive skin are more prone to get sunburn after laser treatment. So they are advised to avoid heat and sun exposure as much as possible after treatment. Also wear sunblock regularly because melanocytes start producing pigment when the skin is exposed to sun. If the skin is slightly sunburnt already then chances of laser burn will increase. Sun exposure should be avoided till the time skin is sensitive.sni
SN: What are the risks associated with laser treatments?sni
There are not many risks if done by a competent individual with a proper setup. But sometimes laser does not work and mostly it is due to incompetency of technician performing the procedure. However hormonal issues can play a role too.sni
SN: What happens in fat-freezing treatment?sni
Cryolipolysis or fat freezing treatment targets stubborn fat pockets in the body which do not go away with exercise or workout. Banana rolls (fat pocket under buttocks), muffin tops (fat above hips), buffalo humps (fat on neck) and double chin can be treated with it. In this process skin fold (bulge of the fat) is exposed to an extreme cold temperature which freezes the wall of fat cells. Hence cell goes into lysis stage; it breaks down its contents and fat expels out.sni
Number of fat cells get reduced but if the individual does not take good care after the procedure then remaining cells can increase in size and cover that area again. Many patients benefit from it and there are no side effects. It is usually offered to those who are not willing to undergo liposuction which is an invasive procedure. However, if a patient is looking for transformation then we recommend liposuction.sni
SN: What are the chances of a cosmetic surgery going wrong? Is there any way to correct it?sni
There is always a chance of it going wrong. If a patient comes for follow up and the problem is detected timely then it can be corrected. However, if he sits at home and make things worse, then it can lead to permanent damage. So choose the doctor wisely and stay in touch even after the procedure.sni
SN: What is HydraFacial used for?sni
HydraFacial is good for exfoliation and deep cleansing of the skin. It is done with the help of machines. Some advanced machines also tighten the pores. Then some serums are used to give a peeling effect. Sometimes certain masks are added to treat acne, pigmentation and these are good for anti-aging and regular maintenance of skin. Glycolic and salicylic acid are also used during facial. After the facial, dead cells shed off so skin looks fresh and plump. This facial also works for uneven skin tone.sni
SN: What are natural ways to slow down the aging process?sni
Aging is an ongoing process. Not taking good care of yourself, consuming a lot of junk food and high carb diet, smoking cigarettes, consuming alcohol, being stressed all the time and not using sunblock while going out can speed up this process. To slow it down naturally choose right products for skin, use sunblock regularly, take a good nutritious diet (preferably low carb diet), work out, wake up early and sleep on time. Choose sunblock according to skin type. If it is oily, use a gel-based or sebum control sunblock. In case of dry skin use lotions or creams. After 30s start using retinol serum, cream or gel and consume foods rich in antioxidants. Multivitamin supplements also help to some extent but they should be used as per doctor’s suggestion.sni
Skin serums contain nano molecules which have more tendency to penetrate deeper into the skin as compared to regular creams and lotions. They can be incorporated in skincare routine
SN: What causes melasma and can it be cured?sni
Melasma can occur due to genetics, hormonal imbalance or iron deficiency. It can also be triggered by bad procedures or products which contain steroids. Sometimes it appears after childbirth or during pregnancy. Once an individual gets affected, nothing can cure the problem. However, it can be controlled with continuous treatment so if one product does not work, switch to the other. Also wear a sunblock regularly and avoid triggers.sni
SN: How do skin serums work and what is the proper way to use them?sni
Skin serums contain nano molecules which have more tendency to penetrate deeper into the skin as compared to regular creams and lotions. They can be incorporated in skincare routine because they work better. Mostly they contain activs; vitamin C or A (retinol). They can also contain niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and rosehip oil etcetera. Vitamin C and A serum cannot be applied together but they can be combined with other serums. Before application, cleanse your skin thoroughly and dry it. Then apply serum and top it up with night cream in the night and sunblock in the morning.sni
SN: What is the appropriate age to start skincare routine?sni
Skincare journey can be started after 20 years. In case of problem free skin, regular products can be used. But if you have acne then do not wait for the problem to worsen. Consult the doctor earlier because once acne scars appear they fade only slightly with treatment. So it is better to treat acne or any other skin problem timely. Moreover, sunblock should be applied on children too if they are being exposed to sun.sni
SN: Why are all aesthetic or cosmetic procedures costly?sni
Beauty products are made with precision and in an ideal condition so that they are sterile. For example, botox has to be kept in a cold place and is prepared at a spot where there are no chances of bacterial growth. These products also travel from one part of the world to the other. So the high production and transportation cost makes them expensive. Cheap ones are also available but if you are looking for good quality and effective results, the cost will be high. Another reason for high cost is that the doctor is not treating a disease rather adding to the face value of an individual. And if a client is an actor or a model, he is going to earn a lot with the face they have made. So they charge more.sni
SN: Why does sometimes the skin breakout when we start skincare routine?sni
If a product is not used correctly it clogs the pores and if it is still used in a heavy quantity it can lead to acne. So one must be vigilant. In case of acne prone skin use non–comedogenic (which do not block pores) products and those which contain salicylic acid. Prefer using water or gel based products instead of those made of heavy bases.sni
SN: What are the natural ways to keep the skin healthy as cosmetic procedures are unaffordable for some people?sni
One must maintain the skincare. Use sunblock (in every weather), take a good diet, avoid stress and use vitamin C orally and topically. Vitamin C improves skin tone. Also use night serums before going to bed. Those in their 30s must use retinol serums which will give an anti-aging effect. Some home remedies are safe too and can be followed but I will not recommend them. Certain companies are producing good result oriented products too which can be used.sni
cosmetic procedures cosmetic surgery, What is fat-freezing treatment, cryolipolysisdifference between botox and fillers, what is PRP, chemical versus fruti peels, kya laser say baal khatam, hojatay hain, shifa news, dermatologist interview, health, skin issues
