AviClear vs Isotretinoin: Laser Treatment vs Oral Medication
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Gerard Ee, MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), PGDip Practical Dermatology (Cardiff). I am the Founder and Medical Director of The Clifford Clinic. I have spent more than 14 years treating acne, and I was among the first doctors in Singapore to use AGNES and AviClear. The opinions in this article are my own clinical views, shared to help you make sense of your options. This article is for general education and does not replace a personal consultation. Last reviewed: June 2026. Patients researching stubborn acne often meet two very different options, isotretinoin, a powerful
Why you SHOULD go to Korea for Ultherapy Prime
By Dr Gerard Ee Medical Director, The Clifford Clinic MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), PGDip Practical Dermatology (Cardiff) When deciding between High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment in Singapore and Ultherapy Prime in Korea, cost, suitability, comfort, pain tolerance, and aftercare are all factors that should be considered. How much value the patient places on being able to attend follow-up sessions locally and their willingness to trust a foreign clinic also play a part in the decision-making process. Korea can be a sensible place to consider for branded Ultherapy Prime, mainly because Ultherapy may be more affordable there than in Singapore. For
Why AviClear Did NOT Work for You
AviClear has generated enormous interest because it is the first FDA cleared 1726 nm laser designed specifically for acne. Unlike conventional acne treatments that rely on daily creams, antibiotics, or oral medications, AviClear is built around a very focused idea: target the sebaceous gland by using a wavelength that is selectively absorbed by sebum, create controlled thermal injury in the gland, and reduce oil production without causing widespread damage to the surrounding skin. The FDA clearance describes the system as a 1726 nm diode laser for mild to severe inflammatory acne vulgaris, with a contact cooling window that protects the
Acne Treatment Singapore: Dr Gerard Ee on Hormonal Acne Treatment and Evidence Based Care
By Dr Gerard Ee Acne is not a hygiene problem. It is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit. When inflammation recurs month after month, the natural history of the disease results in post acne erythema, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and this can sometimes even lead to permanent scarring. My view on acne treatment Singapore is straightforward. The therapeutic aim is to reduce sebaceous gland activity, normalise follicular keratinisation, reduce the burden of Cutibacterium acnes and suppress the inflammatory cascade. [1,2,3] Acne develops through several biological pathways at once. The oil gland and hair follicle complex becomes obstructed, resulting
Understanding Psoriasis vs Eczema
Eczema and psoriasis are two prevalent chronic skin conditions, both characterised by inflammation, irritation, and significant discomfort. Because both conditions present with red, inflamed, and often itchy skin, they are frequently confused with one another. However, while they share superficial similarities, they are fundamentally different conditions. Understanding the difference between psoriasis and eczema is crucial, as an accurate diagnosis will inform the most appropriate course of treatment and can help you manage your condition long term. This article will dive into the differences between these conditions, helping you better understand your skin. What is Psoriasis? Psoriasis is defined as a
How to Prevent Acne Scars During Active Breakouts
Acne scars are a common and often frustrating consequence of acne, impacting skin texture and confidence. That pimple scar can feel like a permanent reminder of a past breakout, and when you have multiple or severe scars, it can feel like a losing battle. While existing acne scars can be treated, prevention is usually the most effective strategy, as taking the right measures early could reduce the risk of permanent scarring in the future. How Does Acne Scarring Occur? Acne scars are a result of the skin's inflammatory response to acne lesions. When a pimple becomes inflamed, it can damage
How to Get Glowing Skin: 8 Tips for a Brighter Complexion
Many of us desire healthy, radiant skin – that enviable glowing complexion that reflects vitality and well-being. However, achieving this can sometimes feel like an elusive goal. Our skin is a complex organ, and its health and appearance are influenced by a variety of factors, including our diet, lifestyle, environment, and genetics. While some individuals may naturally have a brighter complexion, others may find themselves battling with sallow skin or other concerns. The good news is that there are steps you can take to achieve brighter, glowy skin. This blog post will provide you with eight practical tips to help
Spironolactone vs. Accutane for Acne: Understanding Their Differences
Acne is an extremely common skin concern for many teenagers and adults. However, finding the right treatment can often be challenging, with various options available, each with its own mechanisms and considerations. Treatment options can range from topical products for mild to moderate acne to oral medications and advanced procedures for more severe or persistent cases. Two commonly discussed medications for acne treatment in Singapore are spironolactone and Accutane. This blog post aims to comprehensively compare spironolactone vs. Accutane, helping you understand their differences and make informed decisions about your acne treatment. Is Spironolactone the same as Accutane? No, spironolactone
What Causes Pigmentation on Skin? (And How to Treat It)?
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition characterised by dark spots, patches, or an uneven skin tone due to excess melanin production. It affects people of all ages, skin types, and ethnicities, manifesting in various forms, from small freckles to larger patches. This blog post offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and treating hyperpigmentation. We'll explore its various types, causes, and treatment options to help you achieve a clearer, more even complexion. Types of Hyperpigmentation As mentioned briefly above, hyperpigmentation isn't a one-size-fits-all condition. It manifests in different forms, each with its own characteristics and underlying causes. Let's explore some of
How Effective Is Microneedling for Acne Scars? What 68 Trials Show
Written by Dr Gerard Ee, MBBS (UK), MRCS (Edinburgh), PGDip Practical Dermatology (Cardiff). Last medically reviewed and updated: September 2026. Microneedling is the acne scar treatment most patients try first, because it is inexpensive, widely offered and presented as gentle. It is effective, and the published trials establish the size of that effect, the patients in whom it is greatest, and what increases it. The evidence is set out below in plain terms, namely the improvement to expect from plain needling, what changes when radiofrequency or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is added, how needling compares with a laser, and one finding
