Hi everyone, I'm Dr. Qazi, a skin restoration specialist based in Newport Beach, California. My primary focus is on treating acne, scars, pigmentation issues, and facial balancing. Tonight, I’m opening the floor for an interactive session, aiming to address some of the pressing questions many of you have been asking over the past week. I will be talking about skincare, acne, scars, oily skin, mental health and more. Let’s dive into it.
My Specialization in Scar Treatment
I predominantly work on scars—acne scars, burn scars, traumatic scars, and surgical scars. I’ve found that focusing intensely on one area allows me to excel and provide the best care possible. Scars deserve meticulous attention, and there hasn’t been enough emphasis on this aspect in the past.
For instance, just recently, Resident came in for a follow-up, and I was thrilled to see how well they were healing. Over the next three to six months, as collagen continues to improve, the results will only get better. At some point, we’ll consider more volume replacement, perhaps with bio-stimulatory fillers like Bellafill or Radiesse, which can yield fantastic outcomes.
Addressing Common Skincare Questions
Face Reality Skincare for Acne
Many people ask about specific skincare brands, like Face Reality. While some components might be beneficial, often these products are unnecessarily complex. Acne treatment should primarily focus on controlling oil production with topical retinoids and addressing bacterial components with sulfur-based washes or creams. For moderate to severe cases, oral medications like Accutane or treatments like the Accure laser might be necessary.
Over-spending on skincare products isn't always beneficial. It's essential to stick to what works without complicating your routine unnecessarily.
Adverse Reactions to Erbium Laser
Yes, adverse reactions to erbium laser treatments can happen, though they are extremely rare when following proper protocols. Initially, you might feel some texture changes, but these typically resolve within a few weeks. It's crucial to adhere to pre- and post-treatment guidelines to minimize risks. Some patients ignore these instructions, using random creams or oils they find online, which can delay healing. My approach involves minimal heat and energy, ensuring safety across all skin types.
Managing Rosacea and Exfoliation
Exfoliating with Type Two Rosacea
If you have type two rosacea, avoid exfoliating. This condition resembles acne with bumps around the nose and cheeks but requires careful management. Topical creams and antibiotics usually help control rosacea before proceeding with scar treatments. Delayed collagen response and wound healing associated with rosacea make it imperative to manage inflammation first.
Understanding Azelaic Acid for Rosacea
Azelaic acid is recommended for rosacea because it helps kill surface microbes and reduces redness. However, I prefer direct antimicrobials like ivermectin or metronidazole, or a triple combination cream to minimize antibiotic resistance. Each patient’s needs vary, so personalized treatment plans are key.
Planning Scar Treatments
Using TCA Cross Technique
The TCA cross technique is versatile and effective for various atrophic scars, including ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars. Careful application inside scar tissue can lead to contraction and improved appearance. In some superficial cases, laser treatments suffice without needing TCA cross.
Subcision and Patient Experiences
Subcision has proven highly effective, breaking up scar tissue and reducing swelling significantly overnight. Many patients report minimal discomfort, thanks to thorough numbing procedures. Techniques like laughing gas (nitrous oxide) and breathing exercises further enhance comfort during the process.
Product Recommendations for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
For those struggling with oily, acne-prone skin, I recommend starting with a low-dose retinoid and incorporating 10% azelaic acid once a week. Avoid pore minimizers and toners; instead, opt for hydrating moisturizers like Vanicream, specifically the sensitive skin version. Consistent hydration supports overall skin health and aids in recovery after treatments.
Personal Experiences and Insights
Bullying and Mental Health
Growing up with acne, I experienced microaggressions rather than outright bullying. Comments about my skin affected my self-esteem, making me hyper-aware of others’ perceptions. These experiences taught me empathy and strengthened my resolve to help others facing similar challenges. Remember, mental health support is vital alongside physical treatments.
Family Comments on Acne
While my immediate family was incredibly supportive, distant relatives occasionally made unhelpful comments. Such unsolicited advice can be demoralizing, reinforcing the importance of seeking professional guidance tailored to individual needs.
Advanced Treatments and Protocols
Ablative Erbium YAG Laser
I generally avoid fully ablative erbium lasers due to their broad heat impact on healthy tissue. Instead, CO2 lasers or pinpoint erbium lasers work effectively for thicker scar edges. Bio-stimulatory fillers complement these treatments by restoring lost volume and enhancing smoothness.
Accure Sessions and Pairing Treatments
Accure sessions target cystic acne efficiently, paired with broadband light to eliminate surface bacteria. Treatments extend to the neck, chest, and back areas seamlessly. Regular intervals between sessions ensure optimal results, supported by topical antibiotics as needed.
Questions Answered
- Question: How do you feel about face reality skincare for acne?Dr. Qazi: While some components might be beneficial, often these products are unnecessarily complex. Focus on controlling oil production with topical retinoids and addressing bacterial components with sulfur-based washes or creams.
- Question: Have you ever had an adverse reaction to erbium laser in your office?Dr. Qazi: Yes, adverse reactions can occur, though they are extremely rare with proper protocols. Initial texture changes usually resolve within a few weeks. Adhering to pre- and post-treatment guidelines minimizes risks.
- Question: How do you exfoliate with type two rosacea?Dr. Qazi: Avoid exfoliating with type two rosacea. Manage inflammation first with topical creams and antibiotics before proceeding with scar treatments.
- Question: How do you plan the treatment for scars that when you have to do TCA and when the other treatments how do you decide?Dr. Qazi: The TCA cross technique is versatile for various atrophic scars. Superficial cases might only require laser treatments without TCA cross.
- Question: Super oily acne prone skin What products do you recommend for moisture moisturizer pore minimizer and toner?Dr. Qazi: Start with a low-dose retinoid and incorporate 10% azelaic acid weekly. Use hydrating moisturizers like Vanicream, avoiding pore minimizers and toners.
- Question: Hi Dr Qazi Were you ever bullied for your acne you talk about mental health and it sure takes a toll on it Also any recommendations for heat sun sensitivity?Dr. Qazi: I faced microaggressions growing up with acne. Managing mental health alongside physical treatments is crucial. Protect your skin from heat and sun with appropriate measures.
- Question: Did you ever get comments from your family about your acne?Dr. Qazi: My immediate family was supportive, but distant relatives sometimes offered unhelpful comments. Seek professional guidance tailored to your needs.
- Question: Do you recommend ablative erbium yag laser for deep acne scars after having acne for years?Dr. Qazi: Generally, no. I prefer CO2 lasers or pinpoint erbium lasers for thicker scar edges. Bio-stimulatory fillers complement these treatments.
- Question: Why is azaleic acid recommended for rosacea if it's an exfoliant?Dr. Qazi: Azelaic acid kills surface microbes and reduces redness, making it suitable for rosacea. Direct antimicrobials like ivermectin or metronidazole are preferred initially.
- Question: How far apart can we do accure sessions and is there any treatment you would pair with it with cystic acne would it also work on the neck and chest area?Dr. Qazi: Accure sessions target cystic acne effectively, paired with broadband light. Treatments extend to the neck, chest, and back areas seamlessly.
- Question: Is this live session available later to watch?Dr. Qazi: Yes, unless there's a technical issue, the session will be available for viewing later.
Final Thoughts
Through dedication and personalized care, I strive to transform lives by restoring confidence and improving skin health. If you're considering treatment or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Click here to self-schedule a consultation or give us a call at 949-336-7293. Together, we can achieve remarkable results.
