Saggy cheeks, stretch marks and loose skin (on both the face and body) are just some of those pesky things that seem to sneak up on us as we get older, no matter how much beauty sleep or gua sha massages we get! So when we heard about Secret Duo – a powerhouse device that integrates radiofrequency microneedling and erbium glass laser to target-treat all of the above concerns and more (during a single treatment, no less) – we were intrigued. Here, DR CHOONG YEW BONG answers some of our questions about this treatment available at his skin clinic Cienna Aesthetics Medical Clinic.
How exactly does Secret Duo work?
“Secret Duo is the only device on the market that offers the dual non-ablative fractional technologies of 1540nm Er: glass laser and RF microneedling in a single device as a total solution for aesthetic treatment,” Dr Choong explains. The former is great at targeting the superficial layer of the skin, promoting controlled micro-injuries through dermal thermal heating. Meanwhile, the latter delivers controlled radiofrequency energy to deeper layers of the skin (0.5mm to 3.5mm) using gold-plated, medical-grade needles. This helps to stimulate collagen production and treat various concerns.
What makes the device unique is that it allows for treatments to be perfectly tailored to each person’s skin concerns. “These two technologies can work individually or in combination to provide optimal treatment flexibility to all patients.”
What problems, areas or conditions does it target?
Because of the combination of technologies and tailored solutions it allows, the Secret Duo treatment is able to improve a wide variety of skin issues using a single device. This makes it great for busy bees who don’t always have time to bounce from one treatment to the next. According to Dr Choong, the skin issues addressed include non-ablative skin resurfacing, acne scars, tone and texture improvement, wrinkles, non-surgical facelifts, skin tightening and pore reductions.
It isn’t just for the face, either! The Secret Duo treatment can target concerns such as scars, spider veins, skin tightening and even stretch marks on the body.
What about if you have special concerns about saggy cheeks and loose skin?
Many of Dr Choong’s patients do come to him for the Secret Duo treatment to address loose skin on the face. The device works wonders on tightening and lifting saggy cheeks. He explains, “The microneedles create tiny punctures in the skin, stimulating collagen production, while radiofrequency energy heats the deeper layers of skin, promoting further collagen production.
“The erbium glass laser then targets the superficial layers of the skin, improving texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Together, these techniques work to rejuvenate and tighten the skin for a more youthful and lifted appearance. This would result in tighter and lifted skin, better skin tone and smoother skin.”
What is the downtime like?
The advanced approach of Secret Duo minimises downtime and side effects associated with multiple treatments while maximising the benefits. Patients who undergo this treatment may experience mild swelling and redness on their face for three to five days. “This new combined non-ablative fractional resurfacing technique offers a much gentler process with significantly reduced downtime and recovery time compared to conventional ablative fractional lasers.”
What are the long-term results for saggy cheeks, stretch marks and more?
Dr Choong tells us that in most cases, three treatment sessions are all you need to achieve the desired results. However, this may vary depending on the severity of your skin condition. The results are long-lasting, but he does recommend a maintenance treatment once a year for optimal results.
Who is a good candidate for Secret Duo?
The short answer is: pretty much everyone. This treatment can be great for those looking to improve the laxity, texture and appearance of their skin. It can also benefit individuals with sun damage, wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars and overall ageing skin. Whether you’re dealing with mild or severe skin concerns, the Secret Duo microneedling radiofrequency and erbium glass treatment can help rejuvenate and revitalise your skin.
How much does a treatment cost?
Price ranges from $800 to $1800 per session depending on the severity and skin condition.
A bit more about Cienna Aesthetics Medical Clinic
Cienna Aesthetics Medical Clinic is a medical aesthetics clinic that focuses on enhancing natural beauty through non-invasive cosmetic procedures. Its services include Botox, fillers, laser treatments and more. Dr Choong and his team aim to help individuals feel confident and comfortable in their own skin by enhancing their features subtly and naturally. They prioritise safety and utilise the latest technology and techniques to ensure high-quality results for clients.
Cienna Aesthetics Medical Clinic
#06-01, Winsland House 1, 3 Killiney Road
6518 4826 | 9129 8236 | ciennaaesthetics.com.sg
Liked this article on saggy cheeks, stretch marks and radiofrequency treatments? Check out more stories on our Beauty page, and see our guide to facials in Singapore!
