REVIEW: Brightening Laser @ DRX Clinic

~AG~
Doctor Tsu has been my trusted dermatologist for over two years now. I am a commitment-phobe, and usually not "loyal" to my hairstylists, dermatologists and other beauty therapist. So two years with DRX Clinic, specifically with Dr. Tsu, is a phenomenon. 

The last time I saw Dr. Tsu was in Nov 2016 for my acne breakout after my trip to Italy, as I needed immediate help before my engagement photoshoot. Ever since then, I have not followed-up with him.
This time I decided to see him because it is about a month before the my day. My back acne scars and sun spots have been an issue for me. My back is one of the body parts in which I am very self-conscious about. While trying on my cheongsam, my wedding planner commented on my back acne pigmentation. Second instance was when I was trying on my evening gown and my fiancé commented on my back acne pigmentation also. Thirdly, while trying on a dress, my mom commented about it again. I thought that the Diamond Peel Back Acne Treatment @ My Cozy Room has helped with the pigmentation. But apparently not :( Time for a more dramatic intervention for my back acne pigmentation.

 Ketoconazole cream to be used to cleanse the back area

The lightener cream to applied twice a day

 Acne Spot Lotion to treat existing acne

During the consultation, Dr. Tsu mentioned that my back area was not bad at all. He said there was no need for oral medication. He advised on an body shampoo (2% Ketoconazole) to be used to cleanse the back area and to be left on for 2-3 minutes. Then a lightener cream (4% hydroquinone) to target the pigmentation and the acne spot lotion to treat active acne. The lightener creams costs S$106.80 and the ketoconazole cream costs S$10.70. Though, he said I would not see that much of a difference in a month's time. I told him that I wanted more visible results. He said for the laser treatment, it takes a few sessions to notice the difference. He said for the laser treatment, I might not see drastic difference, because I would only be able to do 3 sessions before my big day. 

 My back acne scars and pigmentation are quite obvious *cries*

The whole laser treatment took about 15 minutes. There was no need for topical numbing cream. The nurse clean the back area and then Dr.Tsu started the laser treatment. Compared to IPl hair removal, the laser treatment was less painful. This is coming for a person with very low pain tolerance. The procedure itself felt like static electricity, and I find it slightly ticklish. During the laser treatment, I commented to Dr.Tsu that I smell something burning. He said that was the smell of your body hair burning. Haha! This brightening laser treatment has no downtime and is not painful at all. My ultra sensitive skin did not have much redness. Dr. Tsu advised that the skin tends to get dry after laser treatment. He recommended that I apply body lotion to the back area after I applied the lightener cream.

Slight redness fter treatment 

I will be going for my second laser treatment session in two weeks' time. Will keep you all posted. 

REVIEW: Derma-RX Tinted Suncreen in Cool Beige

 Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen new sleek packaging

~AG~

Bought this Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen three weeks ago. Previously, I had disliked the previous version of Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen because of how oily it is. When I first used it, my skin looked so oily. Read about it on REVIEW: DRX Clinic Journey Part 9. However, I ended using it to the last drop, because it was pricey. After that discontinued Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen,  I used Crème Simon Daily Defense UV Protector. For some reason, my skin did not react well to Crème Simon Sunscreen. Tiny bumps started appearing on my skin. I deduce that my skin is adverse to Sodium Hyaluronate (which is a derivative of Hyaluronic Acid). Every time I use a skincare product with Hyaluronic Acid, there will be bumps on my face. 

Decided to try this new version of Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen.  This improved version is a matte tinted sunscreen. Yay to no-more greasy sunscreen! It costs S$69 for 50 ml of product. The discontinued Derma-RX Sunscreen also contained 50 ml of product, and it lasted me for 1.5 years - because I applied a sparing amount each time. Derma-RX now offers two tinted sunscreen: Cool Beige and Warm Natural. I swatched the shade and Cool Beige matched my skin tone. 

This Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen comes with a pump to dispense the sunscreen and a cap to cover the pump. This packaging is better for traveling, as the previous packaging will sometimes dispense too much sunscreen after it has been in the checked-in luggage. The texture of this Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen is not as creamy compared to the previous version. Even though it is tinted, it has a semi-matte finish.  This new finish is suitable for oily to combination skin type. Though dry skin type might find it drying. Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen is water-resistant, fragrance-free, paraben-free and chemical filter free.

With a pump packaging

My sensitive combination skin has not had any adverse reaction to this Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen. No new breakouts or bumps were seen. It is a pricey sunscreen but I would re-purchase because I trust Derma-RX products. The only con about this product is that you have to apply it 20 minutes before going out to provide sun protection, as it contains physical sunscreen ingredients. 

REVIEW: DRX Clinic Journey Part 9

 

My skincare regimen steps

~AG~

This is an update of my skin condition. About a month ago, I stopped taking the oral medication, Spironolactone. Six weeks prior to discontinuing the medication, Dr. Tsu reduced my daily dosage by half. For the record, I was on Spironolactone for 10 months, taking two tablets once a day. Even after the discontinuation of Spironolactone, my skin has been relatively stable. There is the usual breakouts during the time of the month, but nothing too uncontrollable. Overall, I am confident with my skin again. My current skincare regimen: 

Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel
-- This cleansing gel by Avène works great for sensitive, combination skin. The fresh scent is wonderful. Plus, this foaming face wash does not dry out my skin.

Derma-RX Toner
-- My second most favourite product from Derma-RX product. It helps to keep my skin under control. Rich with AHAs, this toner maintains skin balance and gently exfoliates the skin. 

Comodone Formula
-- This product is Cleo Beauty Hall of Fame 2015 Best Pore Reducer. Dr. Tsu highly recommended that I use this Comodone Formula twice a day. I only this Comodone Formula to my T-zones area, less than a pea-sized amount. Dr. Tsu said that Comodone Formula helps "softens" the whiteheads and blackheads. It contains natural fruit enzymes to keep sebum, whiteheads and blackheads under control.

Blemish Formula
-- On days where I think my skin is good, I skip the Comodone Formula and just apply this Blemish Formula. This botanical formula helps to decongest clogged pores and control excess sebum production. It also helps keep away acne-causing bacteria, and reduce any redness caused by breakouts.

Max-C
-- My favourite Derma-RX product. This is the one product from Derma-RX that I will highly recommend. You can feel it instantaneously tightens the pores. Max-C helps to brighten the skin tone by targeting premature aging and boosting the skin's immunity. This has become the one skincare product that I cannot live without!

Laneige Water Bank Essence
-- My highly-rated moisturizer, having gone through 3 bottles of this product, and the longest time I have been committed to a face moisturizer. It moisturizes well without any sticky feeling. Great texture and has a nice fresh scent.

Acne Spot Lotion
-- Targeted treatment for pimples, it contains antibiotic. It has a strong sulfuric scent that might be a turn-off for some people. This Acne Spot Lotion works well to treat emerging red pimples and also whitehead pimples. 

Derma-RX Tinted Sunscreen
-- Horrible product that I am still using because I do not want to waste the $ spent. * thumbs down* This is one of the WORST sunscreen that I have ever tried. It creates an oily looking which is very unflattering. The one I have is the old version that has since been discontinued, but I cannot trust Derma-RX's capabilities in formulating sunscreen. 

*** I will recommend going to Dr. Tsu at DRX Clinic for anyone that has long-term skincare issues. Even though going to a dermatologist is pricey, the skincare tips and advice provided by Dr. Tsu has been helpful in keeping my sensitive combination skin in check. On average, I spend about $120-$150 per month on consultations and Derma-RX products.

DRX Clinic Journey Part 8 (8 Months After)

~AG~

My first visit to DRX Clinic for 2016. 
It was a regular follow-up visit with Dr. Tsu. We discussed a few issues, specifically regarding the results of the milia seed removal. Click the link for my experience with milia removal at DRX Clinic. http://beautyloverssisters.blogspot.sg/2015/11/review-drx-clinic-milia-removal.html

Top: 20 May 2015 vs Bottom: 15 Jan 2016

 Top: 20 May 2015 vs Bottom: 15 Jan 2016

What did Dr. Tsu said about the results of the milia removal?
Dr. Tsu said that even though it has been six weeks, my under eye area where the milia seeds were removed are still recovering. There are still some red/brown scars. He mentioned that for someone of my age (p.s: late 20s), it should have fully recovered by now. Though those skin tags/milia seeds removed on the forehead have fully healed. In general, Dr. Tsu said my skin does not scar so he was quite puzzled on why the scabs under the eyes have not fully recovered. He also pointed out that are some recurrence of milia seeds where it had been removed. We will discuss on the next follow-up visit on what to do next, as he want to see further how my skin recovery will be.  

Milia recurrence 

How does spironolactone works? Is it safe?
So, I have been on spironolactone for almost 8 months now. This does work to help control my acne, though the results are not immediate. See the noticeable difference in my skin condition in the comparison pictures above. It took about 3-4 months for me to see the effects of spironolactone. So far, I do not notice any side effects. 
Dr. Tsu mentioned that spironolactone aids in acne treatment by blocking androgen, which is male hormones. When a individual get stressed, the body produces androgen, which research have shown cause acne. Dr. Tsu re-assured me that spironolactone is safe to take for an extended period of time, and he added that he will not prescribe any medication that is unsafe for me. I commend Dr. Tsu for being a responsible dermatologist. Hearing horror stories from my family members and friends, I know of some dermatologists who are unethical and will just prescribe the most expensive treatment for acne. I am GLAD Dr. Tsu is not one of them!

Why you suffer breakouts on your chin during the time of the month?
Dr. Tsu mentioned that pimples on chin are hormonal. That is why you breakout around your chin during the time of the month. Dr. Tsu recommended that I continue to apply Acne Spot Lotion on those hidden pimples. 

To squeeze or not to squeeze whitehead pimples?

This is something that we have heard many times. Personally, I try not to squeeze my whitehead pimples because I am scared that it will lead to scarring. But those whitehead pimples are so difficult to resist squeezing. Dr. Tsu advised to only squeeze whitehead pimples that are obvious and with care. He reminded me not to over-squeeze the whitehead pimples as it can get more inflamed. If you feel that there is something left on the whitehead pimples or it re-emerges, just continue to apply Acne Spot Lotion as the skin is still inflamed. 

Why do I breakout when I travel?

Being on a plane itself can be a stress trigger. Another factor might be the bad air on the plane. According to Dr. Tsu, a number of his patients that also came back from Bangkok also suffered from breakout. I had recently traveled to Bangkok and had a few huge pimples the day after, my sister also experienced the same thing.

AG & MG Beauty Award 2015

AG'S TOP 5 PRODUCT FINDS FOR 2015

SKINCARE 

Favorite makeup remover: Bioderma Sebium H20
- - Still on my favorite list for 2015! It is a must-have to remove sunscreen, makeup and impurities. Gentle on the skin, and effectively removes face makeup. The acne-fighting ingredients such as zinc gluconate and copper sulphate help purify the skin. My skin feels fresh after use.

Favorite toner: Derma-RX Toner
- - Never thought that toner is an essential part of skincare regimen till I met this Derma-RX Toner. It thoroughly preps my face for the next skincare steps. Plus, its AHAs content helps exfoliate my sensitive skin. 

MAKEUP

Favorite lip product: VDL Expert Color Lip Cube EX
- - Creamy texture. Very pigmented lip color, almost like a lip stain. Its unique packaging makes application super precise.  

Favorite eyeliner: Kiss Me Heroine Make Smooth Liquid Liner
- - Super fine eyeliner tip. It goes on smooth and stays on all-day! 

Favorite facial moisturizer: Laneige Water Bank Essence_EX
- - Perfect for my sensitive combination skin,  it hydrates my skin without leaving it feeling sticky. The scent is refreshingly oceanic.

MG'S TOP 5 PRODUCT FINDS FOR 2015

SKINCARE

Favorite toner/essence: SK-II Treatment Essence and SK-II Clear Lotion

::: I use the treatment essence and clear lotion twice a day.
Treatment essence has been consistently part of my skincare regimen since the start of this year.
Clear lotion has only been part of my skincare regimen since September of this year. Clear lotion has salicylic acid which helps fight off blemishes. It acts as a toner.

Favorite lip balm: Nivea Watering Lip Care
::: Because it goes on very smoothly. It leaves my lips well-moisturised without feeling sticky or leaving a residue. The thin and sleek packaging makes it handy to carry around.

Favorite cleanser: Korres Wild Rose Daily Brightening & Refining Buff Cleanser
::: My blackheads are reduced after I use this daily cleanser. It is a scrub that is gentle enough for every day use. 

MAKEUP

Favorite concealer: Cle de Peaue Beaute
::: Starting using this concealer this year. Because it is GOOD! It covers up my dark circles, acne scars and any redness. This concealer provides high coverage and fully hide my blemishes. Other concealers does not fully cover my acne scars. Plus, it lasts the whole day!

Favorite lip product: VDL Lip Tint
::: I love the color! It is nice! The texture is smoooth and it is moisturising. An easy way to create gradient lips.