Cover In this article, Tatler asks how Dr Vicki Belo treats acne (Photo: Getty Images)
In this article, Tatler asks how Dr Vicki Belo treats acne (Photo: Getty Images)
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There are plenty of ways to treat acne, but not like Dr Vicki Belo does. She emphasises personalised treatments that go beyond just topical solutions. Read on to know more
At one point in our lives, we’ve scoured the internet for the best acne solution. These pesky pimples cause frustration and leave a mark that takes forever to heal. Dr Vicki Belo has always had a soft spot for patients with this type of skin condition; this is why she constantly seeks effective treatments that offer lasting results.
In our recent article on ‘skinvestments’, the doctor to the stars recommends various advanced skincare treatments. She shares, “Many Filipinos, myself included, have struggled with acne at some point in their lives—sometimes in a very traumatising way. This is why I am always on the lookout for acne treatments that work; because 13-year-old, acne-covered Vicki would have begged to be treated.”
In case you missed it: Skinvestments: which skin investment should you get in 2025? Drs Aivee Teo, Vicki Belo, and more weigh in
Among all types of skin procedures available today, which do you believe is the most effective and worth considering?
For treating acne, we have this new laser called ACCURE. It literally stands for ‘A Cure for Acne’. It’s a laser that gets rid of acne permanently without any additional topical treatments.
How does it work?
This laser truly is revolutionary because it heats up oil glands and precisely targets them with a novel 1726nm laser to address the two main causes of acne: sebum production and the acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes).
More from Tatler: Drs Vicki Belo and Hayden Kho on unity, synergy and achieving success
Above Dr Vicki Belo recommends microcoring for acne scars (Photo: Getty Images)
Dr Vicki Belo recommends microcoring for acne scars (Photo: Getty Images)
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What about acne scars?
A new treatment I’m really into is called Microcoring, which we do with our new Fotona Dynamis NX, which is exclusive to Belo and UltraClear. This treatment uses a laser to create tiny ‘cores’ in the skin and can trigger the body’s natural healing process. This works amazingly for acne scars as the skin heals itself with new and healthy skin. You’ll have to do this once every three months, and it can take about a year to complete treatment, but the results are breathtaking.
Our Accure laser takes the cake on this. This treatment is worth every centavo because you get to cure your acne once and for all. I call this the ‘Machine version of Isotretinoin’ for a reason!
Related: Rediscovering your radiance: Belo’s legacy of beauty and innovation
Above Hygiene is important to Dr Vicki Belo (Photo: Getty Images)
Hygiene is important to Dr Vicki Belo (Photo: Getty Images)
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How often should someone undergo treatments for the best outcomes, and is there an ideal frequency to follow?
To keep up with your skin hygiene, I recommend coming in for routine facials every two weeks to every month, depending on your skin concerns. I always say: ‘Facials are like brushing your teeth. You must do it regularly to keep your teeth and skin clean!’
How about treatments?
If we’re talking about treatments like lasers and microneedling, on the other hand, these will require you to come at least three times at two to four-week intervals to achieve a particular result and can require follow-up sessions depending on the patient’s skin condition.
Are there any risks or potential side effects to be aware of when undergoing these treatments?
Like any medical procedure, skin treatments pose some risks if the practitioner or doctor is not careful with settings or is not using the correct machine to treat and achieve specific results. At Belo, we look into each treatment and thoroughly look through the studies of a machine. This ensures that each machine is safe and accurate. We are dealing with heat and lasers most of the time, so it’s essential to be precise.
What does your clinic do to prevent issues?
To prevent any issues, we thoroughly evaluate each patient’s skin type and concerns. Everyone’s skin responds differently, and understanding each unique need allows for a more tailored, hyper-personalised approach. By doing this, we also ensure the patient’s safety by using the correct settings and modalities, reducing any risks or side effects. Additionally, I love adding ASCE+ Exosomes to any treatment to enhance the results of our treatments and reduce any risk of side effects.
What do we have to be wary of when getting treatments?
One thing to be wary of and look into when you’re getting treatments is to make sure that the provider uses a real machine made by a reputable supplier. I see a lot of fake machines going around, which scares me because we are working with things like energy, heat, and light. Filipino skin is especially susceptible to hyperpigmentation due to heat, which can hurt you in the long run! So ensure you research beforehand, be alert, and don’t hesitate to ask questions!
Read also: Looking for the latest in topical acne treatment?: Introducing Trifarotene cream
Above Dr Vicki Belo gives tips to teenagers with acne (Photo: Getty Images)
Dr Vicki Belo gives tips to teenagers with acne (Photo: Getty Images)
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What’s your advice for teenagers dealing with acne?
For teens, it regulates acne and oiliness; for those in their 20s, it promotes a healthy skin barrier; when in their 30s, it prevents fine lines and wrinkles; and when they are 40 and up, it addresses hyperpigmentation. However, the caveat is that you need to use SPF as it makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.
What is your best skincare advice for people with acne?
Less is more. If you go to the right doctor who can thoroughly assess your skin and pinpoint your problem areas, you can have a concise routine with all the right actives and ingredients without overwhelming the skin barrier.
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Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
