The world is evolving — and so are our beauty routines, thanks to rapid advancements in technology and skincare. These days, achieving the complexion of my dreams doesn’t feel so far-fetched, with treatments that promise to enhance skin and delay signs of ageing. Still, some people around me have questioned why someone in her mid-20s would turn to these options. But like many in my generation, I see it differently: For millennials and Gen Zs, it’s less about fixing and more about future-proofing.

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Sharing the same sentiments is renowned Korean dermatologist Dr Do-Young Rhee, MD, PhD, an expert on Alma Lasers, the global innovator of laser, light-based, radiofrequency and ultrasound solutions. "Millennials and Gen Z are redefining skincare by embracing prejuvenation—focusing on prevention rather than correction," he remarks. "Unlike previous generations who sought treatments only after ageing signs appeared, younger individuals are proactively incorporating advanced dermatological treatments into their routines as early as their twenties. This shift has fuelled the rise of gentle yet highly effective treatments."

WHAT IS TITANIUM LIFTING?

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One that has been getting a lot of attention in South Korea is Titanium Lifting, a non-invasive treatment that brightens, lifts, and tightens for a radiant, contoured look. It uses three laser wavelengths—755nm to tackle pigmentation and fine hairs, 810nm to improve the skin texture and vitality while boosting overall rejuvenation, and 1,064nm to break down fat cells, tighten, and sculpt.

Gently heating the deeper layers of skin, it helps stimulate collagen production, improve elasticity, and enhance your facial contours. With two modes, HR (Hair Removal) for overall tightening and brightening and Stack to contour and lift specific areas, the energy used is carefully controlled to tighten without damaging the skin's surface. This makes it painless while still giving you that instant lift and brightening effect.

But with Radiofrequency (RF) and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) also dominating the aesthetic industry, what makes this new treatment stand out? "Titanium Lifting was developed in response to the increasing demand for non-invasive skin tightening and lifting treatments without downtime," replies Do-Young. "While conventional methods like HIFU and RF are effective, they often cause discomfort. Titanium Lifting offers a painless, quick, and highly effective solution that enhances skin firmness, radiance, and facial contouring in just one session."

What that means is that this machine-based treatment is safe for all skin types. "It is particularly beneficial for individuals who seek immediate lifting and firming effects without experiencing irritation or sensitivity," assures Do-Young. "Those with early signs of ageing, sagging skin, or a dull complexion will see the most noticeable improvements."

TRIED & TESTED

I experienced these improvements myself during a trial session at The Aesthetic Studio Clinic & Surgery at Mount Elizabeth Hospital. After going through a simple consultation, followed by a few mugshots, I had a quick face cleanse and headed into the treatment room. There, the nurses used tape to cover my brows, hairline, and lashes. It was later explained that the lasers used would remove the peach fuzz on my face for a brighter complexion, as well as any exposed hair.

Aesthetic physician Dr Jonathan Lee took over and worked in sections, administering the heat evenly over my face. While we went over the entire face with HR mode, we also focused on the lower half using Stack mode. While I did feel a little sting and some heat as we got to the highest wavelength, there was barely any discomfort as Lee made sure to check in and see if I was okay to move up a wavelength.

Overall, I felt at ease throughout, but maybe I have a high tolerance for pain. Once we were done, I saw an instant brightness to the skin. In just a few short days, there was a visible lift to my facie, especially around the cheeks and jowls.

I asked Do-Young what other treatments were trending in South Korea—the ones that give that coveted glass-skin effect. "In Seoul, combination treatments are highly popular, especially Titanium Lifting paired with unipolar RF, which delivers deep dermal heating for enhanced skin tightening and collagen stimulation," he responds. "For optimal results, polynucleotide injections like Rejuran or Vitaran are often administered immediately after these treatments, maximising skin regeneration, hydration, and long-term collagen remodelling. This synergy offers both instant lifting effects and sustained skin rejuvenation, making it a preferred choice for those seeking non-invasive yet highly effective solutions."

Rather that wait for ageing signs to appear, Do-Young encourages me to future-proof my skin with collagen-stimulating treatments, exosome facials, and laser therapy. "Regular dermatological care, combined with hydration, antioxidants, and barrier-strengthening ingredients, is the best way to future-proof skin."

Titanium Lifting is priced at $800 before GST and is available at Gangnam Laser Clinic, Self Aesthetics, Harmony Aesthetics Clinic, KCS Medical And Laser Centre Pte Ltd, Shiro Aesthetic Clinic, The Aesthetics Studio Clinic & Surgery, and The Chelsea Clinic.