Our Treatments
Skin Aging
The natural aging process of the skin results from a combination of intrinsic factors, namely the passage of time, and extrinsic factors like environmental influences. Inevitably, intrinsic aging leads to a physiological transformation that renders the skin thinner and drier over time, accompanied by an increase in wrinkles and a gradual thinning of the dermis—the deeper skin layer housing essential components like collagen and elastin. On the other hand, extrinsic aging is spurred by factors such as sun exposure, air pollution, smoking, and inadequate nutrition, all contributing to the emergence of coarse wrinkles, diminished elasticity, laxity, and a textured appearance. For those seeking to combat the manifestations of skin aging, an array of skin goals is available for consideration in our online consultation: Mitigate the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. Minimize the appearance of pores. Enhance overall skin texture. (Key ingredients- Azelaic Acid, Niacinamide, Tretinoin.) ***subject to medical review
Spots, Blackheads & Acne
Acne is a common chronic disorder affecting the hair follicle and sebaceous gland, in which there is expansion and blockage of the follicle and inflammation. It’s a complex skin condition caused by multiple factors, including poor cell turnover, excess oil production, inflammation and acne bacteria. It can also be influenced by a number of health and lifestyle factors, such as stress and hormonal changes. (Key ingredients- Adapalene, Azelaic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Clindamycin) ***subject to medical review
Melasma
What is melasma? Melasma is a common acquired skin disorder that presents as a bilateral, blotchy, brownish facial pigmentation. This form of facial pigmentation was previously called chloasma, but as this derives from the Greek meaning ‘to become green’, the term melasma (brown skin) is preferred. It was also known as the ‘mask of pregnancy’. Who gets melasma? Melasma is more common in women than in men, with an onset typically between the ages of 20 and 40 years. Melasma is most common in people who tan easily or have naturally brown skin (Fitzpatrick III, IV). It is less common in people with fair skin (Fitzpatrick types I, II) or black skin (Fitzpatrick types V, VI). What causes melasma? The cause of melasma is complex; it has been proposed to be a photoageing disorder in genetically predisposed individuals. The pigmentation ultimately results from the overproduction of melanin by melanocytes (pigment cells); either taken up by keratinocytes (epidermal melanosis) and/or deposited in the dermis. (Key ingredients- Hydroquinone, Tretinoin, Hydrocortisone, Azelaic Acid, Niacinamide.) ***subject to medical review reference DermnetNZ.org
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition predominantly affecting the central face and most often starts between the age of 30–60 years. Rosacea is common and is characterised by persistent facial redness. It typically has a relapsing and remitting course, with symptoms controlled by lifestyle measures, general skin care, medications, and procedural interventions. Rosacea is estimated to affect around 5% of adults worldwide. Although rosacea is often thought to affect women more than men, studies have revealed an approximately equal gender distribution. Rosacea typically presents after the age of 30 and becomes more prevalent with age. However, it can occur at any age. Although rosacea can affect anyone, it is more common in those with fair skin, blue eyes, and those of Celtic or North European descent. It may be more difficult and under-recognised in patients with skin of colour. (Key ingredients- Metronidazole, Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid.) ***subject to medical review reference dermnetNZ
Hyperpigmentation
Pigmentation of the skin normally varies according to racial origin (see Fitzpatrick phenotypes) and the amount of sun exposure. Pigmentation disorders are often more troublesome in darker skin tones. The melanocytes (pigment cells) are located at the base of the epidermis and produce the protein melanin. Melanin is carried by keratinocytes to the skin surface. The melanocytes of dark-skinned people produce more melanin than those of people with light skin. More melanin is produced when the skin is injured, for example following exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The melanisation process in dark skin is protective against sun damage, but melanisation in white skin (for example after sunburn) is much less protective. If pigmentation due to melanin affects an exposed site, daily application of broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen is important to minimise darkening caused by UV light. The following agents can be used to lighten epidermal melanosis alone or, more effectively, in combination: Hydroquinone Topical retinoid Topical corticosteroid Azelaic acid Niacinamide (Key ingredients- Hydroquinone, Tretinoin, Hydrocortisone, Azelaic Acid, Niacinamide.) ***subject to medical review reference DermnetNZ