Skip to content
Your SkinDoctor

Questions people actually ask.

Answered by Dr Zhao. If yours is not here, send an enquiry and she will answer it directly.

Before your first appointment

Do I need a consultation before treatment?

Yes. Every treatment begins with a thorough consultation and skin assessment. This lets me understand your concerns, review your medical and skin history, and determine whether a treatment is suitable for you. From there, I'll design a plan tailored to your skin, not a fixed package. For some treatments, a patch test may also be recommended before we begin.

How do you decide which treatment is right for me?

Your plan is based on your individual skin assessment, your goals, and what the current evidence supports. Because I work at the intersection of clinical practice and laser-skin research, treatment parameters are chosen with a detailed understanding of how different skin types respond. There's no one-size-fits-all approach here. What I recommend for you is specific to you.

Will the treatment hurt, and is there downtime?

This varies depending on the treatment and the area being treated. Some treatments involve only mild discomfort with little to no downtime, while others may cause temporary redness, swelling or sensitivity as the skin recovers. I'll explain exactly what to expect for your specific treatment during your consultation, along with how to care for your skin afterwards.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on your skin, your concern, and your goals, and it differs from person to person. Rather than promising a set number upfront, I'll give you a realistic outline at your consultation and review your progress as we go, adjusting the plan where needed.

What results can I expect?

Because every individual's skin responds differently, outcomes vary from person to person and can't be guaranteed. What I can promise is a treatment plan grounded in evidence and careful assessment. Where the science behind a treatment is still emerging, I'll be transparent about that. I'd rather set honest expectations than overpromise.

How do I prepare for my appointment?

Preparation depends on the treatment, so I'll give you specific guidance at your consultation. As a general rule, it helps to avoid sun exposure and fake tan to the treatment area beforehand, and to let me know about any medications, skincare actives, or relevant medical history, including pregnancy, breastfeeding, or a history of cold sores, so I can plan your treatment safely.

Still deciding whether a treatment suits you?

That is what the consultation is for. It is an assessment, not a sales appointment.