Enrich Clinic

Category: Advanced Technologies

  • At Home Skin Needling Rollers – Do They Really Work?

    At Home Skin Needling Rollers – Do They Really Work?

    Skin needling has become one of the most talked-about treatments in modern skincare. From at-home dermal rollers to advanced clinical devices, the promise is the same: smoother, brighter, healthier-looking skin.

    But do at-home skin needling rollers actually work—and are they the best option for your skin?

    Let’s break it down

    What Is Skin Needling and What Does It Do to the Skin?

    Skin needling (also known as microneedling or collagen induction therapy) is a process that creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin using fine needles.

    These micro-injuries stimulate the skin’s natural repair process, leading to:

    • Increased collagen and elastin production
    • Improved skin texture and tone
    • Reduction in the appearance of fine lines
    • Support for acne scarring and pigmentation management

    In simple terms, skin needling encourages your skin to behave like it did when it was younger—repairing, renewing, and rebuilding.

    How Do At Home Skin Needling Rollers Work?

    At home dermal rollers use very short needles (typically 0.2mm–0.5mm) that roll across the skin to create superficial microchannels.

    These devices can:

    • Enhance product absorption
    • Gently stimulate the skin surface
    • Improve skin radiance over time

    However, their effects are generally mild and surface-level compared to professional treatments.

    Do Skin Needling Dermal Rollers Really Work?

    The honest answer is: yes—but with limitations.

    At home rollers can:

    ✔ Improve product penetration
    ✔ Support overall skin maintenance
    ✔ Give a temporary “glow” effect

    But they cannot:

    ✘ Reach deeper layers of the skin
    ✘ Significantly remodel collagen
    ✘ Effectively treat deeper acne scarring or wrinkles

    For more noticeable, longer-term skin changes, clinical skin needling treatments are required.

    Should You Use a Serum with a Dermal Roller?

    Yes—but this is where caution is essential.

    Because microneedling creates microchannels in the skin, anything you apply can penetrate more deeply than usual.

    Recommended:

    • Simple, hydrating serums (e.g. hyaluronic acid)
    • Barrier-supporting ingredients

    Avoid:

    • Active ingredients like retinol or strong acids
    • Fragranced or potentially irritating products

    Using the wrong serum can lead to irritation or adverse reactions—especially with repeated use.

    What Are the Risks of At-Home Skin Needling?

    While convenient, at-home devices come with risks if not used correctly:

    • Skin irritation and inflammation
    • Infection from poor hygiene
    • Worsening of pigmentation
    • Damage to the skin barrier

    If you are managing pigmentation or melasma, it’s best to seek professional advice 

    Clinical Skin Needling at ENRICH Clinic & DIV

    At ENRICH Clinic and Dermatology Institute of Victoria (DIV), skin needling is performed using advanced medical-grade devices under the supervision of trained professionals.

    Clinical Microneedling Benefits

    • Targets deeper layers of the skin
    • Stimulates significant collagen production
    • Improves Acne scarring  and texture
    • Supports long-term skin rejuvenation

    What Is the Secret RF Treatment?

    One of our most advanced options is the Secret RF (Radiofrequency Microneedling) treatment.

    This technology combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to:

    • Deliver heat into deeper skin layers
    • Stimulate collagen more effectively
    • Improve skin firmness and texture
    • Address fine lines, acne scarring, and laxity

    At ENRICH Clinic, we have been performing advanced skin needling treatments, including Secret RF, for many years with consistently positive patient outcomes.

    At Home vs Clinical Skin Needling: What’s the Difference?

    Feature At-Home Rollers Clinical Treatments
    Needle depth Superficial Adjustable, deeper
    Results Mild, gradual More significant
    Safety User-dependent Professionally controlled
    Skin concerns treated General maintenance Scarring, ageing, pigmentation

    So… Should You Use a Dermal Roller at Home?

    At-home skin needling can be a useful addition to your skincare routine, but it should be viewed as maintenance—not treatment. It’s always best to speak with your dermatologist or skin health practitioner before starting to use a dermal roller. 

    If your goals include:

    • Acne scar reduction
    • Wrinkle improvement
    • Skin tightening
    • Pigmentation management

    Then professional treatments at ENRICH Clinic or DIV will deliver more effective and predictable outcomes.

    FAQs – At-Home Skin Needling

    Do dermal rollers work?
    They can improve product absorption and skin texture slightly, but the results are limited.

    How often should you use a dermal roller?
    Typically once every 1–2 weeks, depending on needle length and skin tolerance.

    Can skin needling damage the skin?
    Yes, if overused or used incorrectly, it can cause irritation or barrier damage.

    What serum should I use with microneedling?
    A gentle hydrating serum such as hyaluronic acid is usually recommended.

    Is professional microneedling better than at-home rollers?
    Yes, clinical treatments reach deeper layers and deliver more noticeable results.

    Does microneedling help with acne scars?
    Clinical microneedling may help improve the appearance of acne scarring over time.

     Book a consult or make an enquiry about skin needling today

  • Can snoring be dangerous? We detail the top 5 problems that might be contributing to your snoring!

    Can snoring be dangerous? We detail the top 5 problems that might be contributing to your snoring!

     

    men's treatments

    If you or someone you live with snores, you’ll know what a disturbing effect it can have on enjoying a quality night’s sleep! Snorers (or their partners) may feel increasingly tired and unable to obtain restful, deep sleep. If snoring is an issue for you, ENRICH Clinic can help. The Romeo laser we use in treatments is effective and comfortable and can help reduce your snoring. Required treatments range from 1 – 3, depending on the patient.

    Snoring is the sound of the soft tissue in the back of your throat vibrating as you breathe whilst still asleep. Whilst we know the impact it can have on a good night’s sleep, did you know that snoring might be a sign of more serious health issues? Here, we discuss the top four reasons that can cause snoring and outline our clinic’s approach to treatment.

    What causes snoring?

    Snoring can be the result of a combination of different physical factors.

    1. The anatomy of the mouth and nasal airways

    The anatomy of the mouth and nasal airways can contribute to snoring. If the airways are blocked, a snoring sound will occur. The snoring can be temporary, perhaps due to allergies or infection (think being sick with a cold and struggling to breathe freely overnight!), or more permanent and severe due to the nostrils’ shape and anatomy of the mouth and airways.

    2. Soft tissue

    If the soft palate and uvula are lacking in tone, thus narrowing the airway, snoring can occur due to the contact of the uvula on the throat and soft palate.

    3. Low muscle tone in the tongue and throat muscles

    The mouth and throat are comprised of muscles, and if they are too relaxed, they can collapse and loosen in the airways, resulting in snoring. Muscle relaxation can occur temporarily from alcohol consumption or the use of some medications (you might find you snore after falling asleep after a few too many!), as well as from general muscle laxity as we age.

    4. Being overweight

    If you are overweight, it is likely that you may have excess fat around the neck. This can lead to extra pressure on the airways when sleeping. In addition, oversized tonsils and adenoids can also become an issue, but this is usually only temporary.

    5. Gender

    Causes of snoring in females

    Pregnancy and menopause are two significant life stages that can influence snoring in women through hormonal and physical changes. 

    Snoring during pregnancy is often due to hormonal changes that cause nasal passage swelling, combined with weight gain that narrows the airways in the neck and throat. This issue typically intensifies in the third trimester but usually diminishes after giving birth.

    During and after menopause, a decrease in estrogen and progesterone, hormones that experts believe help protect against snoring, can increase snoring. This, coupled with common post-menopausal weight gain, can narrow the airways and change breathing patterns during sleep, further contributing to snoring.

    Causes of snoring in men

    Snoring in men is often attributed to distinct anatomical and physiological traits. The larger oropharynx in men, resulting from bigger upper airways and a lower larynx, increases the likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep, leading to snoring. 

    Also, men typically accumulate more fat in their upper chest and neck, further narrowing the airways and making snoring more likely. 

    Lastly, the change in the structure of the airways when transitioning from sitting to lying down is more pronounced in men, leading to increased airway obstruction in this position.

    Other factors include:

    • Alcohol or sedative consumption
    • Smoking
    • Allergies or a cold with nasal congestion
    • Sleep position
    • Natural aging processes
    • Decline in collagen

    When should snoring be a concern?

    • Witnessed breathing pauses during sleep
    • Excessive daytime sleepiness
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Morning headaches
    • Sore throat upon awakening
    • Restless sleep
    • Gasping or choking at night
    • High blood pressure
    • Chest pain at night
    • Your snoring is so loud it’s disrupting your partner’s sleep

    These symptoms are associated with obstructive sleep apnoea.

    Do I have sleep apnoea?

    snoring treatments

    It’s important to note that not all snoring is the result of sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea occurs when the walls of the throat close together during sleep, blocking off the upper airway. Breathing stops for a while (generally between ten seconds and up to one minute) until the brain registers the lack of breathing or a drop in oxygen levels and sends a small wake-up call to the body. Often, the person suffering from sleep apnoea doesn’t even realise they have woken up. The pattern can repeat itself hundreds of times each night, causing fragmented and disrupted sleep. This can result in excessive daytime sleepiness, poor daytime concentration, and fatigue. Approximately five per cent of Australians suffer from this sleep disorder, with around one in four men over the age of thirty years affected.

    Sleep apnoea is treated differently from snoring and must be investigated and ruled out by the treating doctor. It is quite a serious issue, sleep apnoea and can have some health implications, so please check in with your GP and, if need be, see an Ear, Nose & Throat specialist if you suspect you have sleep apnoea.

    We do not treat sleep apnoea here at ENRICH Clinic.

    How do I stop my snoring?

    Lose weight

    Extra weight, especially around the neck, can compress and narrow the airways. Losing weight can alleviate this pressure and improve airflow during sleep.

    Avoid alcohol close to bedtime

    Avoiding alcoholic beverages a few hours before going to bed can help keep these muscles firm, reducing the likelihood of snoring.

    Treat nasal congestion

    Addressing the cause of congestion, whether allergies, a cold, or a structural issue like a deviated septum, can help improve breathing and reduce snoring. 

    Avoid sleep deprivation

    When you’re sleep-deprived, you tend to sleep more deeply the next time you catch up on sleep, causing the muscles in your throat to relax more than usual, which can worsen snoring.

    Avoid sleeping on your back

    Sleeping on your back can cause the tongue and soft palate to collapse to the back of your throat, blocking the airway and leading to snoring. Sleeping on your side can help keep the airway open.

    Seek medical treatment

    If lifestyle changes aren’t effective, seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can assess for underlying conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, which may require specific treatments such as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, or, in some cases, surgery.

    Romeo, Romeo wherefore art thou Romeo – Snoring treatments at ENRICH Clinic

    The Romeo procedure is a snoring treatment that delivers laser to the soft palate, which causes stimulation and tightening of collagen that firms up the soft palate. This change results in decreased vibrations and decreased snoring. This leads to a reduction in the vibration of the tissue and snoring when the patient is asleep. The treatment itself is very comfortable for the patient. It is normal to experience a warm sensation at the back of the throat as the laser tightens the tissue, but this is tolerable. Post-treatment recovery is usually quick, and there is no downtime with the Romeo laser – many patients return to work immediately.

    Research has shown that snoring can be reduced by up to 60% after two or three treatments with ENRICH Clinic’s high-tech target lasers designed to tighten the soft palate and stop snoring. The laser has minimal downtime, with doctors suggesting you might have a few days with a sore throat feeling. Following the treatment, we recommend avoiding cold foods, fizzy drinks and no smoking or alcohol for 24-48 hours. For best results, patients will undergo two to three treatments at four-week intervals.

    Contact us for an appointment to stop snoring today.

  • Why a Hydro Active Facial is better than a beauty facial

    Why a Hydro Active Facial is better than a beauty facial

    The Hydro Active Facial is a combination treatment involving microdermabrasion and a hydrating mask, which is already much more than a beauty facial can do. This dermatologist facial is a treatment for glowing skin like no other. 

    A Hydro Active Facial is one of our favourite ways to achieve glowing, hydrated skin without downtime in one treatment. You don’t need these treatments all the time – every couple of months is enough – and you can interchange the Hydro Active Facial with other dermatologist facial treatments such as the China Doll Facial. 

    The Hydro Active Facial is around $200. The results are fantastic, particularly if you have a big event coming up where you need your skin to be glowing, dewy and looking fabulous for the camera. Hydro facials (as they are also known) leave regular beauty facials in the dust when it comes to performance. You just won’t get the same results from a traditional beauty facial, and here’s why. 

    Why the Hydro Active Facial is so hydrating? 

    We perform Hydro Active Facials using a special handpiece that uses a suction/vortex effect to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells from pores and hydrate the skin with special serums. 

    The treatment takes a three-pronged approach, starting with a cleanse and a very gentle peel. The next step is gentle exfoliation and hydration using suction. The third element is to fuse and protect, to seal in the nutrients, antioxidants and peptides in the serum. 

    The treatment is much more powerful than a hand-performed beauty facial, even though a light facial massage might feel lovely – it simply can’t get into pores the way the HydraFacial device does unless you count painful manual extractions. 

    Key features of the Hydro Active Facial include: 

    • Painless
    • Non-invasive
    • Deeply hydrating
    • Can treat all ages and complexions ( with the exception of highly acne prone skin) 
    • Boosts circulation
    • Stimulates lymph
    • Can have treatment during pregnancy and breastfeeding
    • Combine with some other treatments, i.e. injectables, China Doll 

    We usually recommend this treatment once every few months as a skin booster for fresh skin. The treatment takes about 45 minutes, with instant rejuvenating results.

    treatment for glowing skin

    No more manual extractions

    The treatment device uses a unique, patented Vortex-Fusion system to exfoliate, extract impurities from pores, and hydrate the skin. The best part about this device is that it suctions debris out of pores, so you don’t need to undergo painful manual extractions as you would at the beauty parlour with a regular beauty facial. 

    Skipping manual extractions by itself is worth it for us because, as you know, these horrible salon rites of passage are painful and inflammatory. The vortex dislodges and suctions away impurities effortlessly and without pain.

    1 +1 =3 with a Hydro Active Facial

    ENRICH Clinic in Melbourne is a huge fan of combining treatments to get better outcomes, with the 1 + 1 = 3 equation. Two complimentary facial treatments can have the same impact as three separate treatments. We love mixing treatments! 

    A  study commissioned by the developers of the Hydro Active Facial device had these outcomes:

    • Hydro Active Facial combined with a blue LED light treatment showed that fortnightly HydraFacial treatments across 12 weeks that included blue LED light treatments could effectively treat and manage acne. 
    • Study investigators observed that skin looks healthier, more radiant, and clearer after treatments. 
    • Most investigators said the skin looked less oily and congested.
    • There was a 30 per cent reduction in brown spots when paired with IPL versus IPL alone.
    • The skin was twice as firm and smooth when the researchers paired the HydraFacial with non-ablative fractional laser or fractional radiofrequency versus non-ablative fractional laser or fractional RF alone.
    • The skin was twice as smooth when paired with RF or focused ultrasound treatments versus RF or focused ultrasound treatments alone.
    • Fifty per cent smoother skin when paired with an ablative fractional laser.

    At ENRICH Clinic, we advise against Hydro Active Facial in severe active acne lesions or inflammatory acne cases.

    facial treatment

    What is the China Doll Facial?

    We love to switch and change up our facial treatments every so often, so if you’re getting regular Hydr0 Active Facials, why not try the China Doll Facial every few treatments? The China Doll Facial is another form of deep cleansing of pores. The carbon serum acts differently but for a similar result: pores free of debris and microdermabrasion-like laser treatment. 

    After the China Doll Facial, you can expect a refreshed complexion, a more even tone, and a refined texture. A China Doll Facial regularly can be a solid component of an anti-ageing plan. 

    Your personal skin treatment plan

    When you are a patient of ENRICH Clinic in Melbourne, you receive a skin assessment and a treatment plan that works to achieve your skin goals most effectively. Your treatment plan will be unique to you and evolve with you. The treatment plan will consider your skin’s needs, personal preferences, and budget. 

    Every month, having interchangeable facials is a fantastic way to keep your skin looking and feeling great without a massive commitment to your time or finances. The China Doll Facial and Hydro Active Facial are great regular treatment options between other treatments, such as chemical peels, or on their own. 

    Get in touch to make an appointment!

    ENRICH Clinic

  • Acne treatment Melbourne – acne scarring at ENRICH Clinic

    Acne treatment Melbourne – acne scarring at ENRICH Clinic

    acne treatment melbourne

    Acne is an inflammatory skin condition resulting in whiteheads, blackheads & pimples appearing predominantly on the face, forehead, chest, upper back & shoulders.

    Dr Michael Rich leads a team of experienced cosmetic doctors & dermatologists in Melbourne, highly trained in advanced lasers & treatments for acne and acne scarring. If acne or acne scarring is an issue for you, contact us to arrange a consultation. 

    Types of Acne Scars

    • Rolling scars – broad, sloped-edge depressions in the skin
    • Ice-pick scarring – pitted, deep, thin slit-like scars
    • Box-car scars – defined-edge depressions
    • Atrophic scarring – thin, flat scars
    • Keloid (hypertrophic) scars – thick, lumpy scarring

    Treatments for acne scarring – Acne treatment Melbourne

    ENRICH Clinic is home to several effective laser treatments for acne scarring. Radio frequency devices & lasers can be used to target skin cells at a deeper level, working to strengthen and support skin cells & structure. This reduces the appearance of scars and marks that acne can cause.

    Radio frequency treatments have the added benefit of killing bacteria and improving overall skin tone & texture. Laser treatments work by either stimulating collagen producing cells & collagen or ablating the skin surrounding the scar, evening out the surface of the skin.

    Other effective and minimally invasive treatments include:

    Deep acne scars

    Of course, there are some very extreme cases of deep acne scarring and they will be too deep for ablative laser treatments to work alone. A combination of medicated creams, medication, lasers, light treatments & lasers and of course time may be the best route to clear, smooth skin. 

    Contact us to secure an appointment for acne scarring consult or treatment at ENRICH Clinic

  • Laser Facials vs. Topical Facials

    Laser Facials vs. Topical Facials

    There are some key differences between a laser facial and a topical facial. A topical facial uses cleansers, exfoliants and creams to provide skin suppleness and smoothness. A laser facial, by contrast, uses energy to stimulate skin cells while also removing the top layer of dull, dry skin cells.

    The main difference between a laser facial and a topical facial is the mode of treatment, but then, importantly, results. 

    At ENRICH Clinic in Melbourne, we prefer laser facials because we get much better results both in the short and long term. 

    A laser facial gets to the core of skin rejuvenation.

    When you consider that no ingredient in a topical cream can penetrate very deeply into the skin, you see that topical treatments can only do so much. It might feel and smell delightful – which is all part of the experience of pampering – but if you want your skin to look and feel better for more than a day, a laser facial is a better choice. 

    What’s so great about lasers?

    When the energy from a laser hits the skin, it vaporises the top layer or dry, dull skin cells, while also triggering the cells underneath to ramp up collagen and elastin production. 

    Skin cells naturally produce some collagen and elastin to keep skin firm and supple, but without a little encouragement, new collagen and elastin aren’t produced in any skin-rejuvenating or visible quantities. The laser facial sends a clear message to the skin via thermal energy that cells should ramp up collagen and elastin production. 

    Because this process of new collagen production takes several months, after a laser facial, first, you’ll see fresher, brighter skin. Then with regular treatments, you’ll see the anti-ageing benefits too. 

    Understanding a topical facial

    While a topical facial is a lovely experience, it is not designed to offer any lasting benefit to skin. Additionally, topical facial ingredients may ultimately block pores or be of questionable quality. 

    We do a number of effective one-off facial treatments at ENRICH, but we rarely ever just use a topical cream treatment: we have too many fantastic state-of-the-art skin rejuvenation devices! 

    Our HydroActive Facial, for example, is a non-invasive hydrating treatment that will get skin looking plump and well hydrated almost immediately. This treatment uses a gentle skin resurfacing element to get these great results as well as high-quality topicals. Many of the ingredients we use in the HydroActive Facial are nourishing, hydrating antioxidants and peptides, with deep penetration facilitated by the special resurfacing handpiece. 

    Resurfacing as part of the laser facial

    One of the main benefits of laser facials is the removal of the topmost layer of dry, dull skin cells, with all laser facial treatments achieving some level of resurfacing as a core strategy. Each specialised laser facial has its own benefits and systems, for example, the China Doll Facial. 

    The China Doll laser facial

    The China Doll Facial is a standout laser facial and one of our favourites. This non-invasive laser treatment uses our state-of-the-art picosecond laser, the PiQ04, on a mask of carbon serum. 

    The serum strongly attracts the laser energy, which intensifies the effect on the top layer of skin, removing debris and vaporising dull, dry skin cells. The results are immediately apparent – a fresher, brighter complexion, with a little drama from the (pain-free) carbon fireworks as the laser hits it. 

    Anti-ageing benefits of the laser facial

    Improving the appearance of skin when you walk out the door is one of the goals of a facial, but what a topical facial can’t ever hope to achieve is an anti-ageing effect. A laser stimulates the fibroblasts, special skin cells that produce collagen, to increase their activities. 

    Laser treatments vary in strength, depending on what is required for the individual. For example, a young person with plenty of collagen and supple skin doesn’t need anti-ageing benefits but can expect a refreshed complexion from a laser facial. Anyone whose skin is starting to sag or crinkle can enjoy both a fresher complexion and, with regular treatments, anti-ageing benefits. 

    Laser facials are best repeated at regular intervals and can be combined with other targeted cosmetic treatments to get the best out of your skin. Laser facials pair well with anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers, but almost any combination is possible to achieve your aesthetic goals. 

    Getting the most out of your laser facials

    One of the things we do best at ENRICH is laser facials, with some of the most advanced skin rejuvenation techniques and equipment in Australia. When you visit our clinic, we’ll make you a complete and comprehensive treatment plan to get your skin looking and feeling fresh now and into the future. 

    Contact us for a consultation at ENRICH Clinic

     

  • What to do about super sweaty armpits

    What to do about super sweaty armpits

    Sweaty armpits can be distressing. Having to take a change of clothes with you, worrying about odours, and checking for sweat stains takes up a lot of mental and emotional energy.

    Getting treatment for super sweaty armpits means getting a diagnosis of hyperhidrosis, which is done by a doctor. At ENRICH Clinic, we can diagnose and treat hyperhidrosis effectively. Try us!

    Hyperhidrosis

    Hyper = excessive
    Hidrosis = sweat

    When you talk to us about your super sweaty armpits, we’ll ask you about your medical history and symptoms. We’ll need to do a physical examination to make sure everything looks and feels good before we can recommend any treatments.

    We may request blood, urine or laboratory testing, to see if your sweating has an underlying cause, such as hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) or hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).

    The super sweat test

    There are a few different tests we can use to determine the level of sweat produced by your body. We also use these tests to pinpoint where exactly the sweating is focused. These tests assist us in providing the right treatments.

    How we treat hyperhidrosis

    At ENRICH Clinic, we have two main methods to treat hyperhidrosis including the MiraDry treatmennt – talk to us abotu your options.

    The miraDry device uses microwave energy to heat the deeper layers of skin where your sweat glands live. The upper levels of the skin are gently sucked into the handpiece and cooled, so we treat just the layer containing the sweat glands.

    The thermal microwave energy heat-damages the sweat glands to the point that they can’t grow back or produce sweat.

    treatment for excessive sweating

    Why we love miraDry

    • Long-lasting sweat treatment for underarms
    • Non-surgical, non-invasive
    • Dramatically reduces underarm sweating and resultant odour
    • Between one to three treatments required
    • Return to exercise in a couple of days
    • Some swelling and sensitivity of underarm to resolve

    MiraDry treatments are clinically proven with an average of 82 per cent sweat reduction and an 89 per cent odour reduction. These results are averages, so be aware that individual results may vary. Some of you will see more significant sweat reductions, while some will see less.  Miradry can only be used under the arms, and not for any other sweat prone areas.

     

    Palm and sole treatments

    We can treat other parts of the body with a diffrent treatmetn to Miradry, for example, the palms of the hands, which offers an 80-90 per cent reduction in sweating. Hand itreatments  are repeated at six-monthly intervals since the hands are a high-traffic area. The more we use an area of our body and the more it moves, the faster the substance will absorb.

    We can also apply neuromodulating treatments  to the soles of the feet; however, feet treatments are not nearly as effective as other parts of the body, such as the hands and armpits in stopping sweating..

    Hyperhidrosis treatments can take 10-15 minutes for certain body areas, but the Mira Dry treatment for underarms is much longer. You aren’t required to do anything special for your aftercare except to avoid intensive exercise or a hot sauna on the day of the treatment. We advise not shaving your armpits for 3-4 days before the procedure.

    Come and see us and we’ll help you decide before summer hits! There are pros and cons to each treatment, and figuring out your preferences is important to us.

    Be free.
    Contact us for a consultation

    ENRICH Clinic

  • Wrinkle prevention: is there such a thing as too early to start?

    Wrinkle prevention: is there such a thing as too early to start?

    When considering the future of your face, many of you may be wondering if there is such a thing as ‘too early’ to start an anti-ageing regime.

    To answer this question, we need to understand a little bit about how the skin ages, and thus what is worth spending time and money on and at what age and stage.

    It is not unreasonable – if you’re into that sort of thing – to start an anti-ageing plan in one’s 20s, but it’s also just as feasible to work on your skin as issues arise.

    Prevention isn’t necessarily the goal for everyone, though it’s true that it works well as part of an anti-ageing strategy when started at the right time.

    Cosmetic treatments cost money and take time, and while it’d be marvellous if we all have nothing but time on our hands, that’s not the reality. We have to carefully choose our plan based on the resources we have available to us. It’s therefore worth having a consultation with your chosen clinic to discuss your goals and make a plan, rather than following fads and fighting cosmetic fires.

    Important note about teenagers and anti-ageing routines

    It’s important to note upfront that here at ENRICH Clinic, we do not believe teenagers should be considering anti-ageing treatments. It’s not your time, teenager!

    Anti-ageing treatments in teenagers are a potentially damaging pointless exercise – the skin is healthy and supple and not at risk of developing wrinkles, fine lines or creases just yet.

    The only anti-ageing routine that teenagers – and everyone else – should be undertaking is wearing high-SPF sunscreen every day and taking measures to protect skin from damaging UV rays.

    Of course, if there are problems such as acne, psoriasis or dermatitis, that is different altogether and a job for a dermatologist. That’s not what we are talking about here.

    The ageing process and when we ‘should’ start caring

    We are constantly getting older, from the minute we are born, which may seem obvious, but we don’t start talking about ‘ageing’ until we think about wrinkles, fine lines and creases in our face.

    These start to appear en masse during our late twenties and thirties, making themselves at home in our forties and fifties and beyond.

    An anti-ageing regime is designed to keep the skin looking smooth and supple for as long as possible, which may mean starting before the cracks start to appear.anti-ageing regime

    The most common way to start an anti-ageing routine in younger people is with wrinkle reducing treatment that relax certain muscles and prevent the development of wrinkles in key areas, but many approaches are just as useful, for example, regular laser treatments.

    How should I start my anti-ageing plan?

    At what point someone decides to start an anti-aging routine and what they start with varies depending on many factors: care factor, budget, time and skin type.

    For example, many Asians look 15 years younger than they are, which can be extremely annoying when trying to get into a bar but means many anti-ageing treatments can wait. Skin-beautifying can, therefore, be the focus, rather than wrinkle treatments.

    Caucasians tend to suffer a great deal of sun damage throughout life, particularly in Australia, and thus may age faster and less gracefully than darker skin tones. Reducing the impacts of sun damage may be a primary focus, for example, removing pigmented spots and softening fine lines and wrinkles.

    Young people have far more fat in their cheeks than older people. You’ll notice in older people that the cheekbones become prominent because the cheeks have lost fat volume.

    Chubby cheeks are very much related to youth. This loss of fat volume in the cheeks can have an impact on the eyes, dragging the skin down and contributing to looking tired. Strategically placed filler can create subtle – but impactful – changes to how aged the face appears.

    Making the most of your beautiful face

    An ageing face has so much character and beauty to it, so when we consider your anti-ageing plan, we aren’t aiming for an expressionless, frozen face that never creates a line.anti aging treatments

    Your face will always age; you will never look 25 when you are 55, no matter how hard you or we try or how much money you spend. And nor should you. That’s not the point.

    You want to look like yourself, at whatever age you are. At ENRICH Clinic, we always aim to enhance your natural assets, not change them. You have a great face and more to the point it’s unique to you! We help you make the most of it.

    Having beautiful skin will never go out of fashion

    There are some effective, non-invasive skin treatments that anyone can start their anti-ageing journey with: 
    • Non-invasive no-downtime treatments
    • Laser microdermabrasion
    • Facials – laser facials, HydroActive facials China Doll carbon serum facials
    • Skin peels
    When you get a little more experienced or know what you’re after, the treatment range includes: 
    • Deeper facial treatments that may include some downtime
    • Wrinkle reducing  & targetted dermal treatments
    • Non-surgical rhinoplasty (nose job)
    When you’re really on top of what you can expect, including deeper treatments that come with some downtime, the treatment range includes:
    • The Portrait – deep skin resurfacing
    • The Secret RF – skin needling and radiofrequency all-in-one for skin tightening and rejuvenation
    • Deeper laser microdermabrasion – deeper skin resurfacing

    Not sure what you need or where to start? Come in for a consultation, and we’ll help you. We understand that ‘looking good’ means different things to different people. For some of you just waking up without red cheeks would make a world of difference. For others, lifting the skin and softening wrinkles is the goal.

    Caring for your changing face is a unique journey for each of us. We at ENRICH Clinic are here to help you look your best self.

    Want more beautiful skin?
    We can help.
    Contact us

  • Some helpful options to tighten belly skin after pregnancy

    Some helpful options to tighten belly skin after pregnancy

    Loose, sagging skin after a baby’s birth can take the shine off your once proud, full belly. Mild to moderate skin laxity around the tummy is normal for many women after pregnancy, but you may feel a little body despondent despite your body having performed a rather amazing feat in growing your baby.

    If your belly hasn’t bounced back after a year or so post-pregnancy, you may want a little help to tighten and tone your mid-section.

    At ENRICH Clinic, we have a range of skin-tightening, fat-removal and stretch-mark-fading technology and treatments to stimulate your body’s natural skin-tighteners, collagen and elastin. Our treatments can help improve texture and even the tone of your abdominal skin.

    Young mother, holding tenderly her newborn baby boy, close portrait

    Our favourite post-baby tummy skin treatments include: 

    • The Ultraformer for skin tightening
    • The Secret radiofrequency skin needling device for tightening skin and fading stretch marks
    • Liposuction combined with the Ultraformer or the Secret for overall reshaping and toning
    • Stretch mark treatments (depending on stretch mark size, colour and severity) which may include laser treatments or the Secret

    How these skin tightening treatments work

    Most of our skin tightening treatments use thermal heat energy to tighten and remodel collagen fibres and stimulate new collagen production.

    Tightening the existing collagen fibres provides an instant tightening effect, while the production of new collagen takes a few months to show visible results.

    group of women of various shapes and skin tones stand together in underwear

    Which treatments should you use?

    Each of your post-pregnancy bodies is unique; therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all for post-partum skin tightening or body contouring treatments. You may or may not have stretch marks or stubborn fat pockets, and the location of your problem areas will vary.

    Not every treatment is suitable for each person, so we’d love to meet with you, discuss your body goals and have an in-person assessment. A consultation ensures we’re all on the same page in terms of possibilities and expectations.

    In saying that, it’s great to know what’s available and how it works. While a consultation will lay out what treatments would best suit your skin type, body and budget, here we explain our favourite post-partum skin tightening treatments.

    We often recommend a multi-treatment approach – a pinch of this and a spoon of that – for best results. At ENRICH Clinic, we find that two different but complementary treatments offer a better result compared with just one type of treatment.

    We call this the ‘one plus one equals three’ cosmetic equation meaning two companion treatments done in a certain time period can add up to the result of three.

    The Ultraformer for tummy skin tightening

    The Ultraformer is a leading skin-tightening treatment device that uses a technology known as HIFU (high intensity focused ultrasound) to stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin to promote firmer, more elastic skin.

    The Ultraformer can reach seven different depths, each useful depending on what area of skin we are treating. Tightening can be felt immediately after your treatment, and you’ll continue to see improvements in the appearance and feel of your skin for up to six months.

    This ongoing effect is due to the slow, natural production of collagen. Into science? Check out HIFU research for skin laxity.

    The Secret RF skin needling for post-partum belly

    We love the Secret. It’s a versatile machine that works cosmetically on many areas of the body, from sagging skin and scarring on the face to stretch marks on the thighs.

    The Secret has a wave-based energy component, effectively utilising two of our best collagen and elastin-stimulating treatments: radiofrequency and skin needling.

    The Secret stimulates the production of and remodels collagen. We can adjust the Secret needles to deliver energy to various depths, allowing us to tailor the treatment to your skin’s needs anywhere on the body.

    How liposuction can benefit post-partum tummy sagging

    Sometimes a pocket of stubborn fat around the belly doesn’t respond to exercise or diet modifications. These pockets of fat often stay put due to hormonal signals, being jam-packed full of receptors that tell the fat cell to retain the fat for a rainy day, emergency use only.

    When a fat cell is told to stay put, it makes it very difficult to get rid of via the usual routes.

    Liposuction – with or without skin tightening treatments – has proved successful if traditional fat-loss methods aren’t working, especially after a pregnancy. Liposuction can remove fat cells in  the abdomen, shifting stubborn post-baby belly fat pockets.

    Post-partum stretch mark treatments

    It’s an unfortunate reality, that stretch marks tend to be with us for life. We can reduce their appearance in some instances so that they are virtually invisible, but we can’t remove them.

    Stretch marks are not a scar – they are the result of the skin stretching beyond its capabilities. The mark is a filler, as opposed to a scar, though stretch marks do resemble scars. Scars and stretch marks come from the same material: collagen.

    Stretch marks develop when the skin stretches faster than it can adapt, causing a ‘rip’. This rip is filled in as best your skin can, but the result is white, pink or red skids; shiny or scar-like curved, raised or flat stretch marks. There may be many; there may only be a few.

    Pregnancy causes this type of stretching and stretch marks, depending on your skin type and genetics. Stretch marks may be severe or barely visible, with treatments being more successful the smaller and lighter the marks originally. Time fades stretch marks, but they never disappear without treatments.

    We can often fade stretch marks significantly using several different methods, which will largely depend on the original state of the marks. The sooner we get to them, the better the results since stretch marks are collagenous.

    Collagen is pliable to a point, but the longer a mark has to ‘set’, the more work it takes to remodel it.

    Manage your expectations

    Your body is amazing and has been through an incredible experience giving birth. Managing your expectations of how much the skin can tighten or retract after such an experience, even with the help of treatments, is very important. Our experienced team can talk you through what is possible and help you achieve the right result for you.

    Contact us

    ENRICH Clinic

  • Treating pearly penile papules in teenage boys

    Treating pearly penile papules in teenage boys

    pearly penile papules in teenage boysPearly penile papules (PPPs) can develop at any age, including teenage boys. PPPs are not dangerous and are not infectious, but the wearer of this string of pearls may not appreciate these additions.

    Dear Teenage Boys,

    Quick facts on pearly  penile papules:

    • PPPs are not contagious (you did not catch them off someone else)
    • PPPs will probably be with you for life (but can disappear in some men later on)
    • You must have your parents consent to have PPP’s removed if you are under 18
    • You may learn to love your PPPs or at least make peace with them
    • If you hate them, we can get rid of them
    • PPPs are vapourised in our clinic by Dr Michael Rich at ENRICH Clinic
    • Once vapourised, PPPs do not return
    • You aren’t losing anything functional if you want to have your PPPs vapourised

    Why do PPPs grow if they are useless?

    Researchers think PPPs are a remnant from when we were a different sort of creature and had what’s known as ‘penile spines’. Humans haven’t used penile spines in quite some time, but some animals still use them during mating.

    We have developed other methods of trying to get people to have sex with us, so the penile spines fell by the wayside. Thank you, nature.

    Like many parts of our bodies, penile spines are now a genetic remnant that appears in some guys and not in others. We don’t know why.

    What is the PPP vapourising procedure like?

    It might sound scary to have a laser beam near your penis and apprehension is complelety normal. Dr Rich, however, is a very experienced pearly penile papule removalist, having performed this procedure hundreds of times.

    The procedure goes a little something like this:

    1. You make an appointment to see Dr Rich.
    2. He’ll ask you to drop drawers so he can take a look and determine if you do, in fact, have PPPs (and not something else like a sexually transmitted infection).
    3. If the PPPs are confirmed, Dr Rich can set up your appointment(s) to vapourise the bumps with one of ENRICH Clinic’s state-of-the-art lasers.
    4. At your appointment, the head of your penis is numbed with numbing cream for about 45 minutes, so you don’t feel anything.
    5. Dr. Rich will gently and carefully aim the laser beam and perform the treatment.
    6. Once the PPPs are all treated, yes, your penis will be a little tender.
    7. Usually, only one treatment is required; however, on rare occasions, a repeat treatment may be required to ensure all the papules are gone.
    8. You’ll be sent home with aftercare instructions and can expect your penis to take up to 7-14 days to heal fully. That means being gentle with it as the small wounds heal and scab over. So, err, no touching…

    Recovery from PPP removal

    The care instructions are important because the procedure is performed on a very delicate area of the body. Treat the small wounds like you would any other wound: keep it clean and dry, don’t pick it up, don’t touch it with dirty hands, and use any products as instructed by Dr Rich.

    Wash only with warm water in the shower, and pat dry gently (don’t rub).

    The end of the penis, where the urethra exits, is not affected by PPP removal, so urinating won’t be any different except for where you hold yourself to go. You’ll soon find out what you can and can’t do, so be gentle when going to the bathroom.

    Without being too dramatic, you’re going to have trouble doing anything much more than going to the toilet until the skin heals. Luckily genital skin heals quite quickly, so your penis won’t be out of action for long. You can expect a recovery within days but we cannot stress enough to stick to your post-treatment care regime.

    You can lubricate the healing skin with a little Vaseline or Stratamed a few times per day. The ointment helps the skin stay supple and flexible as you heal, lubricating the penis against itself (foreskin) and the fabric of underwear.

    You can expect the penis to be red and a little swollen after treatments, but this usually dissipate as healing commences.

    Because we use an anaesthetic cream, there is no need for more invasive anaesthetics, such as injections that work to block nerves. The treatment is performed on the outer skin only, so only the outer skin requires numbing.

    We can remove PPPs on any skin tone without resulting in hyper- or hypopigmentation. Healing is quick and usually without incident. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection, but a local cream or just ointment may be preferable depending on the patient.

    Infection is not anticipated and is rare, but it’s super important to be diligent with hygiene and your after-care. We cannot stress how gentle and diligent you need to be with this very intimate area.

    We do love our lasers and believe they are the most effective way to remove PPPs. Scientific research backs this up – see for yourself!

     

    We can help pearly penile papules disappear.
    Contact us for an appointment.

    ENRICH Clinic

  • Non-invasive face treatments

    Non-invasive face treatments

    At ENRICH Clinic, we have many effective non-invasive facial treatments to suit your budget and skin goals. There are so many, with multiple names, that you may not know where to start. Here we offer you an overview of an excellent way to choose treatments based on your skin goals.

    Before we get into the specifics of the treatments, it’s useful to understand what your specific skin goals are and write them down. There may be a part of your face that is bugging you – redness, pimples, sun damage, dry skin, wrinkles – or you may want to look great for a special event or make an anti-ageing plan. We can also do non-surgical rhinoplasty.

    Your skin goals are the most important thing for us here at ENRICH Clinic, so having a consultation will fast track your discovery process where you will benefit from our experience.

    The internet can be a mind-boggling place, so we recommend making an appointment with one of our specialist cosmetic practitioners to see how we can help you.

    Non-surgical face treatments

    Injectables

    • Dermal fillers
    • Muscle relaxers (anti-wrinkle injections)
    • Liquid facelifts (anti-wrinkle injections and dermal filler)
    • Fat-dissolving injections

    Skin treatments

    • Chemical peels
    • The Secret or Microneedling
    • Microdermabrasion

    Laser and similar procedures

    • Continuous, fractional, ablative and non-ablative lasers
    • IPL and other heat-based devices
    • LED anti-ageing devices
    • Piqo laser
    • China Doll Facial

    Each treatment has a thing or two that it’s really good at, so starting with your skin goals in mind, we can then narrow down the procedures that will most benefit you.

    Here are some great examples of how we help our patients to get you started.

    Anti-ageingPortrait of beautiful mature woman sitting in cafeteria looking away. Cheerful mature woman wearing eyeglasses thinking with finger on chin. Happy woman relaxing at cafe and smiling.

    Anti-ageing is where a cosmetic clinic comes into its own. We love our range of anti-ageing treatments, and so do our clients. There are many to choose from, and it will depend heavily on which element of anti-ageing you are focused.

    Because the ageing process affects the areas of the face differently, we treat each area separately.

    Elements of facial ageing include:

    • The development of fine lines and wrinkles
    • Loss of fat volume creating a sallow look of the cheeks and around the eyes
    • Loss of collagen and elastin contributing to wrinkling and sagging
    • Deepening of grooves

    To combat each of these, we can use a collection of tools that address one or more element. Fine lines and wrinkles can be softened using resurfacing (makes all skin the same ‘height’), filled in with dermal fillers, or collagen boosted with wave-based treatments.

    We can arrest deep grooves and wrinkles as they are forming with anti-wrinkle injections, keeping your face smoother for longer.

    Fat in our face creates a more youthful appearance, so dermal filler has a huge role to play in our anti-ageing strategies. The hollows left due to diminishing fat volume in the cheeks can be plumped back up with dermal filler injections, as can the tear troughs and nasolabial folds (the lines that join your mouth and nose).

    Facial redness

    Redness is the result of blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. There is regular redness – this may be genetic, maybe you run hot – then we have redness caused by inflammation, known as rosacea.

    We have very effective laser treatments that remove the tiny blood vessels, reducing the visible impact of being hot, flushed or generally blotchy or red. This treatment works the same for any blood vessel condition, minor or major.

    If you have red cheeks or a red face all the time,  you may benefit from a consultation with a dermatologist to look into the cause. Sometimes a skin treatment isn’t the most appropriate way forward here.

    Rough or dry skin

    The outer layer of skin is by design made up of hard, dead skin cells – the keratinised layer of skin that protects us from the outside world. Keratinised skin, because it’s dead skin cells, can easily become dry, flakey and rough. Think of elbows, knees and heels.

    These dead skin cells can also lead to face appearing dry, dull and lacklustre. The solution is to get rid of the skin cells. We achieve this with several tools, for example, laser resurfacing, chemical peels and microdermabrasion. The top layer of dull skin is removed, revealing the fresh skin underneath.

    Acne or acne scarring

    Acne and acne scarring are two very distinct problems with individual solutions. Acne is an active skin infection, while acne scarring is the result of a specific skin injury. Acne scars develop due to a space created underneath the skin, in the pore, by the infection, that is then filled in with scar tissue.

    We have several strategies for managing acne, including hormonal management and very targeted skin treatments. Skin treatments include light- and wave-based devices to kill bacteria and promote skin health.

    Acne scar treatments often include collagen remodelling to change how scars appear, but depending on the type of scar, we can also work to resurface the skin.

    We are skin experts who prefer to use non-invasive strategies to achieve your skin goals. We have such an amazing array of tools at our disposal, so come in for a consultation so we can show some of them off to you! We feel confident that we can help you have more beautiful skin, whatever that means to you.

    At ENRICH Clinic, we have three expert dermatologists, including our founder Dr Michael Rich, Dr Lena Ly and Dr Charles Xie

    We are experienced cosmetic dermatologists & phsicians.
    Contact us for an appointment

  • What is the difference between a mole and a freckle?

    What is the difference between a mole and a freckle?

    A mole and a freckle share many of the same qualities, with the main one being colour. However, moles and freckles are different in some key ways, with the most significant difference being that a mole will be slightly raised, while freckles can’t be felt if you run your finger over them. Moles also tend to be darker than freckles.

    But, there’s more to it. To understand the significant differences between freckles and moles, we have to look into the skin cells that make moles and freckles: melanocytes.

    What is melanin?

    Melanin is a dark substance produced by pigment-producing skin cells, melanocytes. When your skin absorbs ultraviolet (UV) rays, your melanocytes are activated and produce melanin to help protect your other skin cells from UV damage. (You can think of melanocytes as putting up a protective umbrella for the next rainstorm. You got wet this time though.)

    Melanin is a physical barrier of colour between your upper skin cells and those beneath. This pigment absorbs future UV rays, ensuring they don’t damage your other cells. Skin cells under the top layer have no protection otherwise.

    Melanocytes are found all over your body but are restricted to the underneath side of the epidermis – the bottom section of the top layer of skin cells. Melanocytes are capable of producing a freckle or mole pretty much anywhere.

    What is a freckle?

    A freckle is made up of melanocytes that have produced pigment in response to UV rays. Freckles tend to be lighter in colour than moles, but this isn’t always true: freckles can be very dark, almost black. Freckles tend to be found in the superficial layers of skin cells compared with moles.

    Freckles can suddenly appear, but you’re most likely to notice freckles appearing in winter when the skin is pale, and they stand out more. Every winter, you’ll probably notice more freckles around your body if you’ve been out in the sun the previous summer.

    Freckles may fade and disappear over time.

    Do freckles require treatment?

    Freckles are not dangerous and do not require treatment. But some people don’t like their freckles. If that’s the case, we have strategies to remove the layer of skin that freckles reside in. We can lighten or remove freckles, depending on where they are and how many you have.

    Speak to us at ENRICH Clinic – we have treatments to reduce pigmentation spots like freckles.

    What is a mole?

    Moles are small brown (or tan, black, red, blue or pink) spots on the skin which range in size and their protrusion off the skin. Moles develop when melanocytes (skin cells) grow in clumps or clusters, on top of each other, and as such, they can have a wrinkly top or be flat, and vary quite a lot in colour. A mole may have a hair growing out of it.

    Moles originate deeper in skin layers and tend to appear when we’re younger, rather than with advancing age. It’s estimated that each of us will have 10-40 moles by the time we hit adulthood. Some moles can develop when we’re in the womb, meaning we can be born with moles.

    Moles can go away sometimes, but usually, they’re with you for the long haul.

    Do moles require treatment?

    Generally, moles are often safe and do not require any treatment, but its always worth having them checked routinely. Some moles may be removed for aesthetic or practical reasons or prophylactically to avoid melanoma issues in future. Mole removal techniques will depend on the size and location of the mole and whether it will be sent for a biopsy.

    Moles need to be checked regularly by a qualified person to look for changes. Moles can turn into melanomas (dangerous skin cancers), so early diagnosis and treatment are essential. This means getting regular mole checks.Young beautiful freckles woman face portrait with healthy skin

    If you notice a mole changing in any way – shape, colour, size, becoming itchy, sore or bleeding – see a doctor immediately.

    What’s the difference between a freckle and a mole?

    • Freckles cannot turn cancerous, but moles can
    • Moles originate in deeper skin layers than freckles
    • Freckles tend to be flat, while moles are usually raised
    • You usually see more freckles than moles
    • Fair-skinned people will often get a freckle instead of a tan (but not a mole)
    • Moles tend to appear earlier in our lives and stick around
    • Freckles can appear throughout our lives and disappear
    • Moles are not directly associated with sun exposure, whereas freckles are

    What’s alike between a freckle and a mole?

    • The tendency for moles and freckles is genetic
    • Both freckles and moles are darker than surrounding skin, never lighter
    • All skin colours can get freckles and moles, but they are easier to spot on light-skinned people

    What is a skin tag then?

    A skin tag is a small benign piece of skin that hangs by a stalk. Skin tags can look like moles but tend to be more skin-coloured than pigmented. The stalk gives them away as being a skin tag, but skin tags range in size and may appear quite mole-like.

    Skin tags are often found in areas that make regular rubbing skin contact  (armpits, groin, neck, etc.) and become more numerous as we age. Skin tags are not at risk of developing cancers, unlike moles.

    Do skin tags require treatment?

    Not unless you are unhappy with the appearance of a skin tag or if they are bothering you in a practical sense, for example rubbing on clothes or jewellery. Skin tags can be quickly removed in the doctor’s office or dermatology clinic using a few different methods, from a simple snip off, to burning, freezing or lasering.

    What are sunspots/lentigo?

    Lentigines are areas of pigmentation on the skin that we might call an age spot or a sunspot. These are similar to freckles but tend to be well defined; more like a splotch than a freckle. They are also larger than freckles.

    Lentigines appear most in areas that are in contact with UV rays, such as the back of hands, face, and chest. A lentigo may appear after radiation therapy and are more common as we age.

    Do lentigines require treatment?

    No, but like most of these other pigmented spots, we can remove it if you don’t like the look of it. Skin resurfacing and specialized lasers that address pigmentation are the best way to make these spots disappear. Speak to us – we can help.

    What are seborrheic keratoses?

    Seborrheic keratosis is a black or brown growth often found on the chest, back and head. These growths develop from keratinocytes and can look like warts. Seborrheic keratoses tend to develop as we age; however, they are harmless, not contagious, and are not typically associated with skin cancer.

    Do seborrheic keratoses require treatment?

    No, but you may not like their appearance. In that case, we have a few very simple, effective strategies for removing seborrheic keratoses in our clinic.

    We can effectively remove most spots!
    Contact us for an appointment.

    ENRICH Clinic

  • Skin resurfacing with the Fraxel, fractional CO2 laser and Portrait

    Skin resurfacing with the Fraxel, fractional CO2 laser and Portrait

    Skin resurfacing is the process whereby the topmost layers of skin are removed, taking with them sun damage, pigmentation, wrinkles and scars.

    Resurfacing to this degree comes with some downtime, as the skin needs to peel, then heal, ultimately revealing a fully refreshed complexion.

    layers of skin infographicResurfacing treatments can create a dramatic change in the skin’s appearance, but this type of treatment does come at a cost. Skin resurfacing is not for the faint of heart! We don’t recommend this type of treatment for those who are new to cosmetic procedures.

    (Need something a little less extreme but that leaves you with beautiful, younger-looking skin? Check out our Gym for Skin ebook.)

    The depth of resurfacing varies between machines and energy settings. At ENRICH Clinic, we use three primary devices for resurfacing. Choosing which one is right for your skin will largely be the job of your cosmetic doctor. Your doctor can advise you based on your skin type and other factors to get the maximum benefit from your treatment.

    Here we give you the rundown of our favourite resurfacing lasers at ENRICH Clinic. We use the Fraxel laser, fractional CO2 laser, and the Portrait plasma device for resurfacing treatments, with each having unique qualities.

    If you’re interested in how resurfacing works in more detail, this scientific review looks at new and emerging trends in laser skin resurfacing.

    The benefits of Fraxel laser for skin resurfacing

    We use the Fraxel dual laser to help correct:

    • Hyperpigmentation on the face, decolletage, neck, arms or hands
    • Sun damage
    • Wrinkles and fine lines
    • Acne scarring, particularly icepick, boxcar and rolling scars

    About the Fraxel laser

    The Fraxel laser is a dual laser, meaning it has two lasers at different wavelengths in the one machine. This dual function increases the Fraxel’s range of treatment options, which is uncommon in lasers and makes the Fraxel a uniquely useful laser. Usually, lasers only have one frequency which targets one specific set of skin issues, for example, blood vessel conditions or sun damage, but not both.

    One of the Fraxel’s frequencies is used to target sun damage and pigmentation within the epidermis (top layer). The other laser goes deeper, targeting the dermis, the layer that houses and produces collagen. The dermis is responsible for deeper wrinkles, skin texture and scarring.

    Fraxel lasers all work the same way – by creating little columns of heat that penetrate the skin cells, stimulating the deeper cells to trigger regeneration. This depth is why you’ll have 3-5 days of downtime – your face is going to be red, peeling and scaley as the process of ‘out with the old, in with the new’ occurs.

    Fast facts about Fraxel laser skin resurfacing

    • Your skin must be free from infections, severe breakouts or open wounds before treatments
    • No retinoids a week before treatment
    • Total treatment time including numbing is about 90 minutes (45 minutes numbing, 20-30 minute treatments)
    • Feels like a prickling sensation, can be mildly uncomfortable
    • Downtime expected
    • Deep treatment
    • Leave skin alone to heal – no picking!
    • For pigmentation, you may need 1-2 treatments a month apart
    • For sun damage, you may need 1-2 treatments 6-8 weeks apart
    • Cost depends on areas treated and the clinic
    • No surgery, no injections
    • Effective treatment to look younger without a dramatic change

    The benefits of fractional CO2 laser for skin resurfacing

    We use the fractional CO2 laser to help correct:

    • Wrinkles and fine lines
    • Scars
    • Skin imperfections
    • Sagging skin
    • Sun damage
    • Texture and tone
    • Sagging or loose facial skin

    About the fractional CO2 laser

    Fractional CO2 lasers also use tiny columns of thermal (heat) laser energy to produce an effect within the skin. These columns are a little different to the Fraxel’s. Fractional CO2 lasers are considered to be the strongest resurfacing lasers used across many areas of the body, including the hands and neck.

    The topmost layer of skin is vapourised during the treatment, while the heat columns pierce the dermis and remodel collagen. This piercing treatment results in significant firming and smoothing of the skin.

    Fractional CO2 lasers have fewer risks associated with them compared with traditional CO2 lasers because of the ‘fractional’ aspect. Treatments fit patient needs, rather than the non-fractional CO2 lasers that tend to run at full steam ahead as the default setting.

    The columns of heat leave untouched skin between the columns – this is why it’s called ‘fractional’ since it only treats a fraction of the skin, while still obtaining an overall impact. Fractional CO2 lasers improve recovery times and healing compared with traditional CO2 lasers.Beauty Woman face Portrait. Beautiful model Girl with Perfect Fresh Clean Skin color lips purple red. Blonde brunette short hair Youth and Skin Care Concept. Isolated on a white background

    Fast facts about fractional CO2 laser resurfacing

    • Expect downtime of 3-14 days depending on the depth of resurfacing – ask your doctor
    • You will need to take time off, but ask your doctor just how much for your treatment
    • Dramatic results
    • Full treatment time is about 90 minutes including numbing time (actual treatment time is about 30 minutes for the full face)
    • Expect a hot, red, swollen face after treatments
    • Skin will peel and flake as it heals
    • Triggers regeneration of new skin
    • Antibiotics or antivirals may be required depending on the person

     The benefits of the Portrait for skin resurfacing

    We use the Portrait to help correct:

    • Wrinkles and fine lines
    • Loose or sagging skin
    • Uneven skin tone
    • Uneven texture
    • Pigmentation
    • Early drooping of jowls

    About the Portrait

    The Portrait is a plasma energy device, not a laser per se. Plasma energy is emitted from the Portrait at two different levels – low and high. Skin tightening is more pronounced at the top settings and where we do more than one pass.

    Fast facts about Portrait plasma resurfacing

    • Low energy treatments have no-low downtime, work slower
    • High energy treatments come with some downtime (but not as much as the fractional CO2 laser)
    • Total treatment time depends on which energy setting we use, but after numbing time, treatments take between 15 minutes and 45 minutes
    • After low energy passes skin will be a mild red and flaking may occur
    • After high energy passes, the skin will be moderately red and then turn brown and flake off over a week – 7-10 days
    • Results are immediate and continue to improve for up to a year
    • Treatments feel warm and require anaesthetic

    We are anti-ageing experts.
    Contact us today to see what the Portrait can do for you

    ENRICH Clinic

  • Why two skin treatments can offer 3X the result

    Why two skin treatments can offer 3X the result

    Combining skin treatments may seem like double the effort, but it could offer triple the benefit. There is no single ‘best’ treatment when it comes to your skin. Often a few excellent procedures combine that offer, together, even better results than you’d see with just one treatment alone.

    If you are concerned about signs of ageing (wrinkles, blemishes, brown spots or sallow cheeks), you aren’t going to find one single best treatment. A laser may work well on your skin tone, while an anti-wrinkle injection may be useful to stave off a deep wrinkle.

    Age and sunspots are treated with a laser, chemical peel or another light-based treatment, while sallow cheeks can also be treated with hydration increasing treatments.

    Finding treatments that complement one another is key to getting the 1 + 1 = 3 effect. We love combining treatments because the results can often be three times more effective!

    Ageing is a complicated process

    There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to how your face is going to age or what concerns you the most. There is an intricate pattern of wrinkles, some that stay static (like a frown line) and those that appear on flatter surfaces of the skin (think forehead and cheeks).

    We lose facial volume, which in turn results in new folds and contours appearing over time. Blood vessels can also become more prominent.

    The multifaceted process of ageing, therefore, is best served with a combination cosmetic approach.

    Treatments that work well in combination

    Needling, lasers, intense pulsed light (IPL), microdermabrasion, chemical peels, hydration treatments and high-quality skincare products can all be used together in various combinations for positve cosmetic outcomes.

    We use these combos a lot at ENRICH Clinic, where Dr Michael Rich is a great proponent of the multi-treatment approach. The treatments can often be performed in one appointment but may be scheduled over several appointments where necessary.

    Classic treatment combos

    • Laser and radiofrequency
    • Hydration and wrinkle reducing treatments
    • Acne medication and topical acne or acne scarring treatments
    • Skin needling (The Secret) and chemical peels
    • Peels & Diodes
    • Ultraformer (HIFU) and lasers

    What is the best cosmetic treatment combination?

    The best cosmetic treatment combination for you depends on your skin concerns. Talk to your cosmetic dermatologist or doctor to see what their thoughts are. Consultations are the key as well as developing a long-term plan for your skin health, and also handy for budgeting!  Combination treatments can be different for everyone and depends on ou skin type, age, diet, gender and genetics.

    A break between treatments may be necessary, so your skin can do its thing

    Some procedures are, by necessity, performed away from others. For example, a robust collagen-boosting treatment requires at least a month, if not more, to reach its maximum potential. There’s not much point in doing more collagen-boosting treatments over the top. Your skin is already maxing itself out. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t do wrinkle-reducing treatment or even a pampering, ultra-hydrating facial.

    Other treatments require a break due to the way they function in the skin. For example, certain needle-based treatments need time to settle before other skin treatments go over the top. This timing is in place because the liquid can migrate, or the skin has been pierced so you have to be careful of infection for at least 24 hours — also, no facial massage after any kind of needling.

    Swelling from some treatments may impede the effect of others, so a break for healing may be useful for the best outcomes for some combined treatments. You don’t have to have them done in the same appointment for the combination treatment effect to come into play.

    Using lasers and other wave-based treatments in combination

    Some cosmetic devices are designed to penetrate more deeply than others, which is why we may utilise the powers of two or more wave-based devices as a combination treatment.

    One such combination may be a radiofrequency device, which penetrates deeper layers, with a laser that works on the skin’s surface. This way, skin gets a deep treatment that stimulates, tightens and strengthens as well as undergoes a smoothing, brightening, resurfacing treatment. Here’s a paper on a study that reviewed how certain combination treatments can be effective.

    Your cosmetic doctor knows the best combination of treatments. 

    If you’re not sure what you need, don’t worry! We do. Come in for a consultation, and we’ll help you figure out the best course of action for your skin.

     

    Let us get the most out of your skin.
    Contact us for an appointment

    ENRICH Clinic

  • How to reverse sun damage on the face

    How to reverse sun damage on the face

    The jury is out on whether you can reverse all sun damage on the face with cosmetic treatments, but we have a few tricks up our sleeve for just that. At ENRICH Clinic, we have a set of pretty great tools in our arsenal, some which can remove sun-damaged skin cells.

    Before we get into reversing sun damage, we need to be on the same page with just what sun-damaged skin is.

    What is sun-damaged skin?

    When you expose your skin to the sun, ultraviolet (UV) rays penetrate your skin, entering the cells and send signals to your skin cells. Not all UV rays are damaging – just UVB rays.

    In response to this damaging influx of UVB energy, specialized skin cells called melanocytes produce a pigment, melanin. Melanin is the dark skin pigment that makes darker skin tones and in lighter skin tones, causes a tan to develop. Melanin is responsible for freckles and moles – and melanoma.

    The little skin cell that got a tan…

    Melanin production occurs when the DNA in a skin cell is damaged. The DNA damage is the SOS of a skin cell to the melanocytes: “Produce more pigment!” they cry, “More! More! We’re dying here!”

    The skin cell lays gasping while the melanocytes get to work, trying to prevent further damage by building a physical barrier of pigment in the skin cells. This pigment helps protect against future sun, but the damage to the DNA in the cell has occurred. That’s how the melanocyte knew what to do in the first place.

    A tan is never a healthy sign for your skin cells – it’s a cry for help. It just means you’ve been out in the sun (which may seem like you’ve been on a relaxing tropical holiday, hence the association with relaxation and health).

    Is darker skin protective, or does it mean I’ve got damaged skin cells?

    In darker skin tones, there is already a base layer of melanin present from birth that protects the cells from increased UVB damage. Darker skin tones still have a skin cancer risk and in some cases, a higher risk of certain types of melanoma.

    Darker skin does not exempt you from skin damage from UVB rays (though darker skin types don’t get as much skin cancer as lighter skin tones, plus darker skin ages better regardless of sun exposure).

    You still have to wear sunscreen!reverse sun damage with cosmetic procedures

    Sun-damaged skin makes you wrinkly faster

    The more sun you are exposed to, the worse the damage. Excessive UV exposure may result in the production of certain enzymes in the skin that breaks down collagen and elastin fibres. These fibres are the strength and structure of your skin and are the only things holding you up. Without collagen and elastin, your thinning skin starts to sag and wrinkle.

    Another problematic occurrence is the increase in a specific growth factor that increases the proliferation of blood vessels, resulting in very sun-damaged skin appearing with a map of veins across it.

    Sun-damaged skin can look fine from the outside, but once you put it under a Woods lamp, all the sun damage appears. This damage will keep appearing as the years wear on, as pigmentation spots, wrinkles and sagging.

    The big sun that got a bad reputation

    We shouldn’t completely hide from the sun. We need sunshine to cause the chemical reaction in our skin that results in vitamin D production. Vitamin D is essential for our immune system and bones, and we should remember this in our attempts to cover up and block the sun’s rays.

    If you don’t get any sun or are always fully protected, consider getting tested regularly for vitamin D levels and using a supplement. Speak to your healthcare provider.

    Reversing sun damage in the skin

    ‘Reversing’ may not be the best term here, since that’s not necessarily the process that occurs in the skin when we treat sun damage. Sun damage may have gone deep.

    When we treat sun-damaged skin, we are usually removing the damaged or pigmented skin cells and promoting the function of the skin. These advanced skin treatments are done at the clinic only, so do require appointments and in some cases, an outlay of money and recovery time.

    However, we can remove much of the sun damage from your face in our clinic, sometimes in just one treatment.

    Can skin cells repair DNA damage?sunscreen to protect skin

    Other animal species can repair DNA damage, but humans, not really. Non-mammals have a photolyase enzyme that can remove damaged lesions; however, mammals don’t have this marvellous piece of kit.

    The only protection we have from DNA damage to skin cells is to avoid direct UV rays without sunscreen or protective clothing. Wearing sunscreen is the only protection we have from damaging UV rays.

    You do have some internal mechanisms to help, which is where antioxidants come in. Research shows that UV exposure is a significant trigger for the release of damaging free radicals. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants can help mitigate some of the damage. Antioxidants can help pick up some of those stray free radicals floating around, taking them out of circulation so they can’t keep doing damage.

    That means a diet rich in high-antioxidant fresh fruit and vegetables.

    Methods we use to reverse or remove sun-damaged skin

    • Chemical peels
    • Microdermabrasion
    • Laser skin resurfacing
    • Laser skin treatments
    • Topical treatments

    How chemical peels remove sun damage on the face

    Chemical peels are a type of skin resurfacing using various ingredients to dissolve the outermost layers of skin. The depth of the peel depends on the ingredients used.

    Benefits of chemical peels

    • May remove sun-damaged and pigmented superficial skin cells
    • Freshens complexion
    • Improves texture and tone
    • Can mitigate blemishes and redness
    • Stimulates collagen production
    • Deep clean skin – removes whiteheads and blackheads
    • Helps control oil production
    • Tends to be low or no downtime
    • One or more treatments
    • Peels are very affordable

    How microdermabrasion removes sun damage on the face

    Microdermabrasion is the gentle process of removing the topmost skin cells, revealing fresh new skin underneath. At ENRICH Clinic, we prefer to use the erbium laser for microdermabrasion as results are far superior to other abrasive dermabrasions on the market.

    Benefits of microdermabrasion

    • Helps remove damaged superficial skin cells
    • Refreshes complexion
    • Evens skin tone
    • Improves skin texture
    • Reduces the appearance of large pores
    • Smooths blemishes, pigmentation and redness
    • Stimulates collagen production to help firm skin
    • Clears breakouts
    • Helps control oil production
    • Low or no downtime
    • One treatment is excellent, but regular treatments improve results
    • Microdermabrasion is gentle on skin

    How laser skin resurfacing removes sun damage on the face

    Using the laser to resurface skin is much like microdermabrasion, but much more in-depth. This type of treatment can come with some dramatic results, but also some downtime. Where microdermabrasion can be a lunchtime no-downtime treatment, laser resurfacing requires some home time.

    Benefits of laser skin resurfacing

    • Dramatic results
    • Removes significant amounts of sun-damaged skin
    • Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
    • Can soften deep grooves
    • Completely resurfaces the skin to a deep level
    • How laser skin treatments remove sun damage on the face

    We also have laser skin treatments that target specific issues on the skin surface caused by sun damage such as pigmentation. Lasers can focus on any one particular skin problem with ease, allowing us to target the results of sun damage, rather than a full resurfacing treatment. Spots on the face, hands and chest are easy and painless to remove in the clinic.

    Laser skin treatments work well with other treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers.

    Benefits of laser skin treatments

    • Remove or reduce the prominence of single spots quickly
    • No need for full laser resurfacing treatments
    • Work on individual areas or full face and neck
    • Efficiently treat the skin on the backs of the hands
    • Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
    • Stimulate collagen for overall firming (where required)

    How topical treatments remove sun damage on the face

    There are a handful of excellent high-strength topical treatments for sun-damaged skin only available through your clinic and cosmetic doctor. You require a prescription for these products, and therefore, a consultation will be required.

    Benefits of topical treatments

    • Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
    • Improve skin texture and tone
    • Rejuvenate skin cells
    • Strengthen skin
    • Helps prevents degradation of collagen
    • Improves skin barrier and skin thickness

    Interested in the process of skin ageing and what science is doing about it? Read this scientific paper, Fighting Against Skin Ageing.

    We are cosmetic skin experts!
    Contact us for a consultation on your skin

    ENRICH Clinic

  • What causes pearly penile papules?

    What causes pearly penile papules?

    The short answer to what causes pearly penile papules (PPP) is that nobody knows for sure, but there are a couple of theories floating around. The main consensus is that these little pearly bumps are a typical feature of many penises, which is shorthand for there isn’t a lot of time, effort or money being thrown into figuring out just what causes pearly penile papules.

    What we do know is that PPPs are ubiquitous, are not a disease, and there is no need to be frightened. You may not like them, but they aren’t a health issue. If you don’t like your pearly penile papules, we have solutions.

    Theories on what causes pearly penile papules

    It has been suggested that PPPs are vestigial, which means they used to form a more prominent or essential body structure that has fallen out of use.

    Similar structures have been found on the penises of other animals, and are known as the much less complimentary penile spines.

    These penile spines in animals are likely to serve a reproductive function, possibly increasing sexual sensation and encouraging quicker orgasms. These spines are found in varying forms in cats, chimps, mice, wombats, echidnas, monkeys and bats.

    Human pearly penile papules don’t have the same abundant nerve supply as is found in other animals. This suggests that we don’t use them for anything much.

    Primates appear to have lost a DNA sequence for these spines. This has left some of us with nothing much to show for it except a ring of pretty pearls from a bygone era.

    PPP facts

    • You do not have genital warts or any other sexually transmitted infection
    • You are not contagious
    • You do not have poor hygiene
    • You do not have cancer

    What do pearly penile papules look like?

    Pearly penile papules vary depending on your skin, and maybe tiny pink, white, yellow or translucent pearls around the edge of the corona (head) of the penis. All of your papules will look alike; there is no colour, shape or texture mixing in one person.

    The papules are all evenly sized – a few millimetres – in a single or double row.

    PPPs are considered a normal skin variation, and may appear – or disappear – in an individual over a lifetime. PPPs tend to form and then stick around for life, but some research shows that as we age, PPPS can diminish (Agha 2009).

    Why do only some men have PPPs?

    PPPs do not discriminate. They can affect any age, ethnic background and sexual preference. Some reports suggest that uncircumcised men are more likely to have pearly penile papules than circumcised.

    Treatments for PPPs – we have a permanent solution!

    It’s important to note that you cannot pick penile papules off – they are part of your skin. Picking at them will cause irritation, discomfort, and possibly a small sore.

    Also, you can’t apply any cream or lotion that will get rid of them – they are not that kind of skin ‘problem’. Do not apply wart cream, abrasive acids, or other ‘home remedies’ suggested online. That will not help and will actively hurt you.

    If you do want your pearly penile papules removed, see Dr Michael Rich at ENRICH Clinic and have them vapourised on the spot by a laser. Quick, simple, and easy – and gone for good! There are no returns on PPPs.

    The laser treatment isn’t usually painful, uncomfortable yes,  but topical anesthetic is applied before treatment.  You will need to take care as the small wounds heal up, which takes about a week. Read your after care instructions and follow them to the letter for this delicate area. At ENRICH Clinic, Dr Rich performs the pearly penile papule removal procedure – he is one of the most experienced doctors performing this treatment in Australia.

    How will I know if I have PPPs?

    It is usually quite easy to identify pearly penile papules when you know what you’re looking for. The best way to put your mind at ease is to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

    The key indicators will be the location, shape and colour. The single or double beaded ring around the rim of the head of the penis should give it away. The appearance of PPPs is quite distinct and will appear in this one area on the penis, organised into a very orderly ring.

     What else could these papules be?

    It’s essential to be thorough in your investigations – you don’t want to get caught short thinking your bumps are PPPs when they are not. Here are some other options to consider:

    STIs

    You may be concerned that you have genital warts. Genital warts are more like a cauliflower shape, a bit lumpy and squashy, and appear randomly around the penis, perineum and anal area. Genital warts don’t look like PPPs at all. You may get one wart; you may get a cluster, you may get many. Warts are not well-organised, unlike PPPs.

    Another STI that causes pearly bumps on the head of the penis is molluscum contagiosum, however once again, these bumps are poorly organised and a bit all over the place compared to PPPs.

    Benign conditions that could mimic PPPs

    A condition that might be confused with PPPs is Fordyce spots – harmless tiny white bumps that appear on penile skin – but not the head of the penis. Fordyce spots do not appear on the corona of the penis, but these spots are just as benign if you do happen to have them. No need to worry one way or the other.

    When to worry

    PPPs do not cause pain, inflammation, swelling, soreness, itching, irritation or redness. They behave just like healthy skin. If you have any symptoms that seem unusual or are causing you discomfort, please see your doctor. If you do need medical treatment, you should know about it sooner rather than later.

    Managing embarrassment by removing your PPPs

    If your pearly penile papules cause you distress, getting rid of them may be a good option. It makes no material difference to your penis to have – or not have – PPPs. As discussed, they have no nerves in them and are worthless appendages.

    The risks of the procedure are minimal, and with an experienced doctor like Dr Rich, who has performed over 1000 of these procedures, you are in the best hands possible.

    Contact us

    ENRICH Clinic

  • At ENRICH, we love the The China Doll laser facial

    At ENRICH, we love the The China Doll laser facial

    The China Doll laser facial, also known as a carbon laser peel, has smoke, it’s got drama, it’s got beautiful results!

    The carbon laser facial is one of those treatments that gives you instantly glowing skin, but the China Doll facial has more up its sleeve than just a pretty face. The carbon laser peel is a therapeutic skin treatment that can, over multiple treatments, make a dent in some serious skin conditions like acne.

    Why you’ll love the China Doll facial

    • No downtime – lunchtime pamper time!
    • Ideal for newbies to cosmetic treatments
    • Great for before a big event or big night out – won’t leave marks on your face, just beautiful skin
    • Improves skin texture and tone
    • Reduces oiliness
    • Reduces the appearance of large pores
    • Removes blackheads and deeply cleanses pores
    • Removes dead skin and impurities
    • Increases thickness of the dermal barrier
    • Stimulates collagen and elastin

    How does the carbon laser peel work?

    First up, the skin is cleansed, and a gentle pass with our PiQ04 laser is taken across the skin surface.

    A carbon laser peel requires a thin layer of carbon serum which applied next up, to the face.

    The carbon mask then has ENRICH’s unique PiQ04 picosecond laser applied to it. china doll laser facial melbourne

    The overall treatment is still a laser treatment – with ENRICH it’s the picosecond laser, unique to China Doll laser facials in Australia – but the carbon serum acts as what’s known as a photo enhancer. This amplifies the effect of the treatment, increasing its potency.

    The carbon particles absorb debris and oils in the skin; then the laser beam is attracted to the blackness of the carbon. As the laser hits the carbon, the carbon explodes (gently!).

    This explosion removes the outer layer of dead skin, sucking the dirt out of pores and promoting a glowing complexion.

    The science behind the carbon laser peel

    It can be easy to get swept up in marketing jargon when it comes to trendy new facial treatments. We’ve done our best to demystify the China Doll facial, so you know exactly what to expect – based on scientific research and our own clinical experience.

    We love the China Doll facial at ENRICH, and we think you will too!

    carbon laser facial

    How many treatments are required?

    The carbon laser facial can be a standalone clarifying treatment, but it’s also proved itself as a therapeutic treatment used over time. The carbon laser facial can be used every 2-4 weeks to improve skin quality, tone, texture, and to treat skin problems like acne.

    The treatments need to be done at spaced intervals to allow the skin to repair itself and start the process of collagen production. Once a course of treatments has been completed, a treatment every 1-3 months is likely to maintain the results.

    Side-effects of the China Doll facial

    One of the drawcards of the carbon laser peel is that there is no discomfort and no downtime. Because we are treating areas that contain hair follicles, some hair removal and hair lightening may occur.

    During treatments, you’ll feel some warmth and tingling as the carbon is treated with the laser, from the tiny explosions. You may experience some tingling or slight redness for a few hours after your treatment, but this will disappear.

    Why the PiQ04 is a spectacular laser for the carbon laser facial

    ENRICH uses a picosecond laser for carbon laser facials. The benefits of using the picosecond laser include faster, stronger laser pulses that penetrate deeper. This produces an overall better treatment in less time than other types of lasers.

    How is a China Doll treatment performed?

    1. Your skin is thoroughly cleansed
    2. A gentle pass is applied to the skin with our PiQ04 laser
    3. A thin layer of medical grade carbon serum is applied to the skin – this is the photo enhancer that seeps into your pores
    4. The picosecond laser beam is applied to the skin, is attracted to the carbon and blasts it apart taking with it dirt, oil, dead skin cells and other debris, while also tightening pores
    5. Another rejuvenating pass is applied to the skin with the laser at a different setting
    6. We cleanse and nourish your skin with special skincare products; then you’re done!

    Who gets great results from the China Doll facial?

    • Any age or skin type
    • Those with skin laxity
    • Anyone with active acne
    • Those preparing for a special occasion
    • Anyone looking to pamper themselves!

    A quick look at the science & studies behind the carbon serum & the China Doll facial *

    Carbon laser facial for reducing the appearance of enlarged pores – it works! (Chung et al 2011)

    Researchers looked at reducing enlarged facial pores in Asian women. The study was to compare using just a laser treatment, and using a laser treatment with the added carbon serum that characterises the carbon laser facial.

    The study included 25 Asian women aged 20-40, who all underwent carbon laser facial treatments. One side of the face was treated with the laser and the other side of the face treated with the laser and carbon serum. There was just one treatment.

    After just three weeks, 75 per cent of the study participants showed improvements on the carbon serum and laser side of the face, compared to 67 per cent showing improvement in the laser-only side of the face.

    Teenage girl with cystic acne significantly improves (Calderhead 2011)

    A 14-year-old girl with severe cystic acne across her cheeks and chin was treated with regular carbon laser facials. She was given six laser treatments using the carbon serum, two weeks apart.

    By the fourth treatment, significant improvements were observed, and by the sixth treatment, over 90 per cent of her inflammatory acne had been visibly cleared.

    Eight weeks after the last treatment, lasting improvements were seen. The general skin condition was much improved, with pores, sebum production and red spots all reduced.

    Pigmentation spots in older Japanese women treated with carbon serum and IPL (Kawasaki and Kawana 2014)

    Three older Japanese women (aged 58, 78 and 85) with specially selected pigmentation spots underwent a treatment using carbon serum and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment.

    There were solid improvements in the pigmented areas compared with non-treated pigmented lesions. Treatments were well tolerated with minimal side effects.

    *note: these are studies. Every patient’s journey, results and treatment is unique.

    The China Doll Facial – an ENRICH Clinic  favourite

    The China Doll treatment is absolutely one of our teams’ favourites. ENRICH Clinic is one of the only clinics in Melbourne to perform this treatment, and we are definite devotees.  No downtime, clean glowing skin and rejuvenation, who wouldn’t be?

    We are skin experts.
    Contact us today to see what we can do for you