The St. Albert clinic is home to some of the most advanced, leading-edge lasers in the industry, with skilled laser technicians and healthcare providers offering a full range of treatments. The full line-up of Cynosure Lutronic lasers allows professionals to address concerns for pigment, acne scarring, anti-aging, skin tightening, hair removal, and more. The fall and winter months are the ideal time to pursue laser and chemical peel treatments, as reduced sun exposure helps promote optimal healing and outcomes. When combined with injectables and collagen stimulating treatments, patients can achieve results that are both restorative and preventative, setting the stage for healthier skin in the months ahead.
Stratica Dermatology is grounded in science and backed by a team of dermatologists. The St. Albert clinic is home to Dr. Laura Soong and Dr. Malika Ladha. Coming into the high season for both laser and injectables, Stratica Dermatology highlights that Dr. Ladha is the only female cosmetic fellowship-trained dermatologist in all of Alberta. Dr. Ladha’s unique training and perspective allow her to deliver care that is both evidence based and creative, combining science with artistry in a way that is deeply personal for patients.
“What drew me to dermatology is how it brings together so many aspects of what I love about medicine,” Dr. Ladha shares. “It is visual, hands on, and deeply personal. As a visual learner, I am naturally engaged by the diagnostic side of dermatology, where observation and pattern recognition play such a big role. What really makes the field exciting for me is how it blends science with creativity, especially in medical and cosmetic dermatology. Most of all, I value building lasting relationships with patients, understanding their stories, addressing their concerns, and empowering them through treatment.”
Dr. Ladha’s fellowship training is a distinction she holds with pride. “It is a unique position that has shaped how I approach my work and how I connect with patients,” she explains. “I understand the value of being seen, heard, and understood, especially in a field like aesthetic dermatology where trust and communication are essential. This role has given me the opportunity to advocate for high standards in aesthetic care and to bring advanced training and techniques to the local community. I see it as a responsibility to continue elevating cosmetic dermatology in Alberta while creating a space where patients feel comfortable, informed, and confident in their care.”
While Dr. Ladha’s expertise sets her apart, she is one part of a broad and collaborative team at Stratica. Alongside other dermatologists and physicians, she contributes to a clinic culture that values thoughtful, multidisciplinary care. Stratica’s strength lies in its ability to bring together physicians and cosmetic professionals who work in concert to meet the full spectrum of patient needs. From treating complex medical conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and skin cancers, to offering advanced cosmetic treatments such as injectables, biostimulatory treatments, laser resurfacing, and chemical peels, the team provides a level of care that is both comprehensive and personalized.
“What excites me about advancements in cosmetic dermatology is the evolution toward holistic treatment,” Dr. Ladha explains. “At Stratica, the entire team is deeply committed to combining tools in a way that best supports each patient’s unique goals and skin health. With so many technologies available, from lasers to injectables to peels, the strength lies in knowing how to combine them thoughtfully. It is never about one size fits all solutions. It is about creating care that feels natural and empowering.”
The patient journey at Stratica reflects this philosophy of care. “The first phase of any cosmetic journey is about connection,” Dr. Ladha explains. “It means taking the time to get to know one another, building trust, and understanding the full picture. That includes learning each individual’s story, their values, their cosmetic goals, and the nuances of their anatomic, ethnic, and aging patterns. From there, a comprehensive treatment plan is designed that is grounded in science and medical evidence. This is not about quick fixes, but about thoughtful, incremental changes over time that reflect and respect the individual.”
Cosmetic dermatology has often been misunderstood as something sought only by celebrities or influencers, but in reality, many procedures address medical concerns or correct issues that affect a patient’s daily quality of life. Stratica’s medical and cosmetic teams work together to ensure patients feel supported no matter their reason for seeking care.
The process for booking reflects this distinction. Medical dermatology requires a referral from a family physician, as is standard for specialists in Alberta. Cosmetic dermatology, however, does not require a referral and patients can book directly for a consultation. In either case, the goal is the same: to provide compassionate, personalized, and evidence based care.
For Dr. Ladha, her role at Stratica is both professional and personal. “What I find most rewarding about helping patients achieve optimal skin health and refined cosmetic results is being part of a journey that goes beyond the surface,” she says. “Ultimately, it is about empowering people to live their best lives with confidence. Returning home to Alberta and being able to provide care to the St. Albert and Edmonton community feels truly special. There is a warm, familiar feeling that comes with it, and it feels like coming full circle. I am honoured to be able to give back to the community that shaped me and to build meaningful relationships right here where it all began. Plus, as a lifelong Oilers fan, being back in this part of the world just feels right, both professionally and personally.”
