It’s time to meet IMA’s newest trainer, the extraordinary Olimpia Carmen. Smart and empathic with a no-nonsense approach that has garnered her a loyal following over the years in Dubai and with clients who visit her regularly from other GCC countries. As a pioneer in the rapidly expanding Aesthetic Medicine field in Dubai, she was the first ever Laser specialist licensed in Dubai by Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Olimpia has transformed the Wellbeing Medical Centre into a hive of medical aesthetics activity.

Olimpia Carmen: Laser Specialist, Senior Practitioner, And Accredited Trainer

In Your Decades Of Experience, How Have You Seen The Field Of Lasers Evolving

My 25 years of expertise in the field of Aesthetics, Skin Care, Lasers and Anti-Aging Medicine has witnessed a paradigm shift in this sector. In that time, I have not only been amazed at the evolution of lasers in aesthetic medicine, I have based my practice on this progress by constantly learning more about new technologies and applications.

Since those early days, I have seen numerous other bright and motivated clinicians also get licensed. I have also been amazed by the greater popularity of lasers and their increased scope to either prevent or address a diversity of conditions.

The numbers speak for themselves. It is important to note that the global aesthetic laser market is predicted to grow 9.54% between 2020 and 2028. This increase in the aesthetic laser market not only means more patients and procedures but also a more competitive market. I can say with total sincerity that training to be a laser technician has fuelled my career with a dynamism that I am grateful for. I always tell the students whom I train that we may advance, but with this growth means technicians have an even greater challenge to focus on standing out more. How? Taking courses and continuously building upon their knowledge and skills means that they not only know the technology per se, but that they begin to develop the confidence to design individualized protocols utilizing different technologies and in diverse ways. This transitions practitioners from being merely good to being great at what they do.

You name it, lasers do it. They resurface, rejuvenate and treat vascular lesions of all types, including fat removal, reshaping the body, removing unwanted hair and even growing hair too. It is really astonishing how far the technology and techniques have come.

This said, these new generation lasers are excellent but they are increasingly more complex to use. It is crucial to be trained and to be trained well, otherwise the know-how is insufficient and the confidence naturally declines, not to mention the possibility of disasters occurring.

There are many variables involved in aesthetic lasers, including the active laser medium, wavelength, and targeted chromophore. Aesthetic lasers can be ablative, non-ablative or fractional. There is just so much to learn and understand before being able to manage lasers effectively and safety. I always emphasize and encourage others to take at least one course in laser safety to ensure the utmost competency in laser handling.

What Sets You And Your Practice Aside From Others?

Call me blunt sometimes, but my objective is to be compassionate but equally to be clear with clients and with students. I take a scientific approach and always provide an explanation of the procedures. The work in the clinic isn’t just a job for me, it is a mission. I take care of entire families and derive pleasure in helping others feel good and confident about their looks. It’s not about feeding into their narcissism, it’s more about helping to nurture their self-esteem.

In my years in the field, I have since developed my own unique way of making my treatments. I found that by performing customized treatments, a combination of different procedures, lasers, devices and ingredients I reach astonishing results that are perfectly tailored to each of my clients; some of whom have been with me for decades.

What Words Of  Wisdom Would You Give To Other Prospective Laser Therapists?

I would definitely recommend that they take courses and get certifications. This field is not a one-time degree field. As new lasers enter the market and more research is conducted, we as technicians and clinicians have to continue our training to stay up to date and offer our clients the best possible care and results. Not to mention, it would set you aside from other technicians in the competitive field of aesthetic lasers.

What Is Your Favorite Laser? And What Is The Laser That Is Being Talked About A Lot But You Don’t Like So Much?

There are so many lasers that I love, it is so hard to choose a favorite. Of the many I love, I would say my top ones are Deka, SmartXide Dot, Mona Lisa, Lutronic, Spectra, Dermalux, and Candela. For example, the SmartXide Dot laser therapy is devised to improve the skin’s texture and tone and to fight fine lines, deep wrinkles, and acne scars. It does an amazing job at leaving islands of healthy tissue surrounding the microscopic DOTs, enabling the skin to heal more promptly and minimizes overall damage.

In terms of my least favorite lasers in terms of cost effectiveness I would have to say the Plexr and Ulthera lasers. Ultherapy is popular for its non-surgical route to face lifting and tightening but I am not entirely sold on it. There have been many cases of it resulting in nerve damage and permanent scarring so I would rather avoid that and use one of my preferred lasers instead.

Olimpia Carmen, The Woman

Do you exercise? What is the ideal exercise prescription to look good and feel great?

I lead a hectic work life so I don’t have the time to implement any serious workout plans. My alternative is taking walks when the weather is cooler. Doesn’t sounds so intense but it is a great way to stay in shape and boasts many benefits too. From increased cardiovascular and pulmonary fitness, improved management of conditions such as hypertension, joint and muscular stiffness, and even stronger bones and improved balance. Ultimately, I see it as my job to be fit and radiate vitality and radiance, as a testament to my trade.

Do You Follow Any Specific Diet?

When it comes to diet I am particular, watch my portions and eat foods with low Glycemic Index values. Sugar is my enemy, it is really bad for the skin and is a leading contributor to aging and sagging skin. That’s right, we know that sugar damages the skin through a process called glycation. While glycation can’t be completely stopped, it can be slowed through diet. By cutting out white sugar, high-fructose corn syrup and simple carbs, my blood sugar levels rise more slowly than moderate or high-GI foods. Since I’m on the go all day, every day, having sustained energy is not only a nice-to-have, it’s a must have.

What is your pampering & relaxation routine?

I must admit, I love all types of massages to help me unwind but also to benefit my overall health. There is so much more to massages than merely the in-the-moment relaxation of it. As a technician, I am on my feet for the majority of my days which can lead to joint and back pain and even decreased blood circulation. This is where my massages come in, they calm the nervous system, reducing tension which is perfect for me after my busy weekday schedule.