Head of Laser and Skin Treatments at the Dubai Cosmetic Surgery talks hair loss, anti-ageing, sun exposure and the mistakes we are all making.
With 20 years of commitment to beauty, research and aesthetic innovation, Olimpia Carmen has become regionally recognised as a specialist in the field of aesthetics. As Head of Laser and Skincare department at Dubai Cosmetic Surgery Clinic, Olimpia is determined to stay abreast of all new developments by regularly conducting research and attending world renowned anti-aging conferences in search of the next best thing to offer her patients. She has worked with some of the best and most renowned doctors and professors to perfect the latest anti-ageing and permanent hair reduction techniques.
Are there any common dermatology cases that are unique to the UAE?
Skin problems in the UAE are similar to everywhere else in the world but the intense sun in UAE that shines almost throughout the year can easily damage skin if it’s not protected with a suitable sun screen. Therefore, skin conditions like melasma (hyperpigmentation) and solar lentigo (freckles) on the face and body are what affect people the most in UAE.
What are some primary concerns for women in their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s?
Nowadays, more women are starting to take care of their looks at a younger age (as early as 20 years) which wasn’t the case before. They do this to avoid the appearance of premature wrinkles and to preserve a youthful and clear complex; and looking for professional advice for the skin as early as possible is the primary concern. Depending on the particular season, for instance during winter, the hydrating creams have to be reapplied several times a day to keep the skin moist and prevent dehydration.
From the mid-30s, the creams applied should target not only hydration during the day, but in the evening as well. These nourishing creams have to be very rich in vitamins and other ingredients to effectively target the collagen regeneration or to remove some sun damage spots or blemishes.
In the mid-40s, the creams are no longer enough and having different types of treatments including lasers, injectables (botox and fillers) or having a combination of them can shave off years from these patients. Professional facial treatments are also beneficial, including deep pore cleansing, microdermabrasion and peels are complimentary to any daily routine and a must because afterwards, the skin is always refreshed and the outer damaged layer eliminated leading to better absorption of the creams.
The most common mistakes I’ve seen is the lack of good cleansing and toning if makeup is used. Only on perfectly cleansed skin should you apply cream because if you apply them on clogged pores, it will lead to acne eruption and dull skin because of sebum production and makeup residue.
Tell us about those red dots or lines that develop under eyes? Why do they appear and how can you get rid of them?
Exposing the skin to the harmful rays of the sun without any sunscreen cream results in the appearance of small veins (telangiectasia) on the cheeks. The heat vasodilates them and for some skin types (mostly caucasians) it produces redness on the cheeks or sometimes red dots. Only lasers can remove them.
What other common concerns, have you noticed, are becoming more and more popular nowadays?
Hair thinning and hair loss for males and females are very common. The use of some hair care products, stress and genetic predisposition lead to hair loss. Also, signs of premature aging like wrinkles, fine lines, loss of radiance, dark circles and loss of elasticity is enhanced by unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking and sun exposure for long hours without protection.
What do you have to say to women who prefer not to use any products on their face and stick to natural, homemade or herbal treatments?
I wish I could say that being natural is enough or that only homemade creams like masks are very effective. But unfortunately they are not. They are complimentary to a more sophisticated skin care routine. Cosmeceuticals (which are medicated creams) target particular skin problems. Combine using these products with having a balanced lifestyle and it’s the recipe for beautiful, healthy skin and a youthful appearance.
Are there any new laser and skin treatments that are being performed that you recommend?
Every few years, the science of skin care treatments evolves beyond imagination. Non-invasive treatments can achieve almost similar results as surgical ones. Although lasers cannot substitute results like surgery can, for those who don’t want to have surgery, laser treatments are an alternative procedure. For example, fractional CO2 is one of the best devices to improve skin conditions like laxity, tone, scars, stretch marks, post traumatic scars, pigmentation and wrinkles. Ultherapy is the latest non-surgical way to lift, tone and tighten skin. It works wonders for skin laxity without leaving moles on the skin, meaning no downtime for patients. Somehow we can say that we have treatments that are non-surgical for almost any unwanted skin condition. Also it’s very important for patients to follow aftercare rules. Most of the treatments have to be repeated after a few months or once every year because unfortunately we cannot stop the ageing process but we can delay it.
The Dubai Cosmetic Surgery is located on Al Wasl Road, Al-Manara, Umm Suqeim area. For more information please call +971 4 3485575.
