Fractional Thulium Laser

Fractional Thulium Laser, otherwise known as Korean BB Laser, is a unique sub-ablative 1927nm wavelength Thulium laser that effectively targets facial pigmentation, improves enlarged pores and brightens the skin. It is known as BB Laser in South Korea because it aims to have the same effect as BB cream, which is to improve the texture and tone of the skin.

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How does Fractional Thulium Laser work?

The thulium laser’s 1927nm wavelength penetrates to a deeper level within the lower part of the epidermis and dermis without causing the upper layer to peel. This precise layer is where most of the skin pigmentation resides. Pigmentations are then broken up into small fragments and absorbed by immune cells, renewing damaged skin and stimulating collagen production. This effectively targets and treats melasma, freckles, sunspots and age spots.

What are some of the areas Fractional Thulium Laser can treat?

Fractional Thulium Laser is used on the face to treat the following conditions:

Melasma
Sun spots
Pigmentation
Dull skin
Large pores
Wrinkles
Scarring

Am I a good candidate for Fractional Thulium Laser treatment?

Patients who wish to achieve brighter, smoother and more radiant skin without the significant downtime of other more aggressive lasers would make good candidates for Fractional Thulium Laser treatment. Fractional Thulium Laser aims to produce results replicating the look of BB cream.

Fractional Thulium Laser is also an effective treatment for fine lines and enlarged pores. However, it is important to undergo a proper consultation and communicate your treatment history and expectations to your doctor beforehand.

What is the process of getting Fractional Thulium Laser treatment like?

Fractional Thulium Laser Treatment does not involve any broken skin, incisions or surgery. A topical aesthetic cream is applied prior to treatment to ensure minimal pain during the procedure. You may feel a slight prickling sensation during the treatment but this is well tolerated by most.

After the procedure, patients may experience some warmth and redness similar to a sunburn, which usually subsides in 1 to 4 hours.

Are there any side effects of Fractional Thulium Laser? What is the downtime like?

Patients might feel like their skin is slightly red and a little sensitive for the next 1-2 days post-treatment. It is recommended to stay at home to avoid sun exposure and outdoor contaminants.

Downtime depends on the laser settings. There are various settings that would control the coverage, depth and effect of the laser, and the setting chosen depends on your skin condition, the results you desire and the downtime acceptable to you.

Low intensity is for skin renewal, to enhance penetration of topical medications and hydration and has downtime for 1 to 2 days.

Laser strength 2 is for skin rejuvenation of normal skin, lightening of sensitive pigmentation like melasma and has a downtime of 3 to 7 days.

Laser strength 3 is for removal of resistant skin pigments such as thick age spots, or intense rejuvenation of skin ageing and has a downtime of 5 to 7 days.

For more intense laser treatments, your doctor might prescribe therapeutic masks to speed up the healing process. These therapeutic masks are to be applied twice daily for 5 days.

What results can I expect from a Fractional Thulium Laser treatment?

Results of Fractional Thulium Laser treatment can be seen 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure. Patients can expect brighter and fairer skin, smoother and younger-looking skin, tighter pores, improving in pigmentation, improvement in fine wrinkles and overall improvement in skin texture and tone. Patients may also find that there’s improvement on shallower acne scars.

For best results, multiple treatments will be required, each spaced every 4 to 6 weeks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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How is the Fractional Thulium Laser different from other lasers?

The Fractional Thulium Laser is more intensely targeted on the pigment bearing layer of the skin than other non-ablative lasers and doesn’t require as many treatments. The Fractional Thulium Laser is also specifically for skin smoothening and pore refining with minimal downtime.
Your suitability for fractional thulium laser is subject to assessment by Dr Wan as there may be various options depending on your skin and the effect you would like to achieve.

How soon can I apply makeup after the treatment?

Depending on the intensity of the laser settings, patients may start to apply makeup immediately up to 2-3 days after treatment, when the fine pinpoint micro-crusting has resolved. Prematurely removing the micro crusts may result in poorer or slower recovery.

Will Fractional Thulium Laser be effective for fine wrinkles and enlarged pores?

Yes, apart from stimulating collagen production and brightening skin, Fractional Thulium Laser is also an effective treatment for fine wrinkles and enlarged pores.