Is it wise to spend 5-10k on laser treatments and medical facials? I feel like products bought from drugstores are typically useless

If you’re interested in seeking alternative treatments, can try TCM. I’ve done that and it was very effective. Otherwise I would have to rely on stronger and stronger steroid medication.

I think the rest of the posts have shared brilliant advices, I thought I can share some useful tips. I myself went to beautician (spent 5k+ with zero results). I went to consult dermatologists just to get 2nd opinion, used their products, improved conditions, but later stopped and changed to off-shelves products (cost saving), condition worsened again and dermatologist told me cannot suka suka change because ingredients can be unsitable for my skin. Fast forward to today, I told doctor I don't want to be reliant too heavily on daily products, doctors advised me to take isoterin. I went for it and till today the effects are brilliant. My skin no longer has reddish marks, no outbreaks and I just have to apply basic products daily - lipids, moisturiser and sunscreen (sunscreen can be off shelf, I'm using Anessa). So yes, get dermatologist advise and don't spend unnecessary money. Total on dermatologist I spent more than 20k but it's certainly worth it.

Hello there!

I thought you made a smart move to ask for advice before jumping straight into signing facial packages that can be quite costly, especially when the sales representatives are quite good at what they do.

As you shared little details about yourself, it's hard to advice. Still, here's my own experience, hope it helps. I struggled with real bad acnes, scars, blackhead and all nasty stuff due to puberty, health issues and lack of knowledge about skincare. Like you, drugstore products (even premium ones) didn't work and I was frustrated to say the least. Decided to seek professional help and got different types of laser treatments, chemical peels etc. Slowly but surely, my skin improved! No more oily skin or reliant on heavy makeup/concealer, I'm confident to head out bare face and my skin condition has stablized. But this comes with a hefty price tag; I spent ~$15K over 5 years.

I didn't go to a GP/clinical dermatologist back then for consultation, but it's definitely a good first step to take.

If you ask me if my investment was worth it, I'd say yes. The treatments tackled problems that couldn't be resolved with just diligently sticking to a facial care routine. Now, my skin is manageable and I can survive with off-the-shelf products for maintenance and won't be signing anymore packages.

Should you decide to sign, be mindful of the followings:

• Do your due diligence about what treatements are offered to you (benefits, results etc.) and check the customer reviews of the clinic you'd like to sign with, stay away if you notice red flags.

• Make sure whatever packages you are signing doesn't cut a big hole in your wallet; in fact, tell them your budget and see what they can plan for you.

• Take notice of your skin's progression and don't be afraid to be honest with them if you realized your skin is not improving at all after a few sessions.

What's your condition? Ever tried seeing a dermatologist? Most acne gets sorted by isotretinoin