Laser for Pigmentation
Pigmentation is the presence of excess melanin on the skin produced by melanocytes, which are cells producing and containing melanin. These typically occur under the skin resulting in an uneven skin tone and skin pigmentation marks, dark spots or patches on the skin.
The most common misconception associated with discoloured skin is that it will fade by itself without undergoing any treatment. Some pigment types, like the ones caused by acne, may lighten up over time. However, the majority of discoloured skin needs to be treated with in-office and high-powered active ingredient treatments to fully remove the skin spots on the surface.
Laser treatment is a popular method for treating hyperpigmentation. Several types of lasers can be used to treat hyperpigmentation. The type of laser used will depend on the individual’s skin type and the depth and severity of the hyperpigmentation.
For superficial pigmentation such as freckles, sunspots, age spots on the face, hands and body area, the laser is precisely designed to hone in on pigmented lesions on the skin, gathering the light energy and converting it into heat. This warmth shatters the pigment, pushing it towards the surface without affecting any of its neighbouring dermal structures. You can rest assured knowing your skin will remain untouched after this particular treatment session!
After the pigmented lesions are brought to the surface, they will soon fade or dry and peel away from the area that was treated, leaving your skin with a smooth tone and complexion.
To treat deeper pigmentation, lasers target the skin’s excess pigment and break it into smaller particles that the body’s immune system can naturally eliminate over time. You can rest assured that your skin will remain untouched after this treatment session. This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual’s skin type and the severity of the hyperpigmentation.
Depending on the severity of the hyperpigmentation, multiple laser treatments may be required to achieve the desired results. These treatments are usually spaced several weeks apart to allow the skin to heal in between.
Laser treatment can be an effective way to treat hyperpigmentation, but it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before undergoing treatment. By following your doctor’s instructions carefully and protecting your skin from the sun, you can achieve the best possible results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Laser Sessions Are Needed for Pigmentation Removal?
The number of laser sessions required for pigmentation removal depends on several factors such as the size, depth, and type of pigmentation, as well as the individual’s skin type and their body’s response to the treatment.
Generally, a series of 3-6 laser sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart may be recommended for pigmentation removal. However, some people may require more or fewer sessions depending on their specific situation.
During each laser session, the laser emits a high-energy light that targets and breaks down the pigmented cells in the skin. Over time, the body’s natural healing process removes the broken-down pigment, leading to a reduction in pigmentation.
It’s important to note that laser treatments can be costly and may require multiple sessions for optimal results. It’s also essential to protect the skin from further damage by using sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure. It’s best to consult with a dermatologist to determine the type of laser and treatment plan for your specific pigmentation concern.
What To Expect After Laser Treatment for Pigmentation?
Laser treatments are the quickest method to reduce hyperpigmentation, yet the process takes time to show results. Right after a laser session, you can anticipate some degree of redness, soreness and minor swelling – almost as if you have been sunburnt. To soothe such sensations in your skin area, we recommend applying cold compresses for relief. Even though pigment may appear darker during 1-3 weeks following treatment it will eventually begin fading away.
To expedite the healing process and avoid any adverse effects, it’s essential to resist scratching or rubbing the affected area.
Most people can immediately resume their daily routines and social activities following treatment, with any potential effects quickly dissipating within a two-day period. As such, you should abstain from applying makeup or skincare products that could irritate the skin during this time.
Sometimes laser treatment can cause changes in skin colour, either darkening (hyperpigmentation) or lightening (hypopigmentation). These changes are usually temporary and will fade over time.
Does Pigmentation Return After Laser Treatment for Pigment Removal??
A series of laser treatments are necessary to remove the pigmentation from your skin. Following each session, you will observe a transformation as more and more melanin is broken down and discarded by the body.
To preserve the results of your skin treatments for longer and prevent pigmentation from returning, use SPF 50 sun cream to protect your complexion from UV rays. Additionally, invest in high quality skincare products and limit your exposure to sunlight as much as possible.
Dr Miller is here to help
Dr. Natalia Miller
In order for laser treatments to be successful and tailored specifically to you, the practitioner must have a detailed knowledge of your individual characteristics, such as skin type, depth of pigmentation and general health. Everyone is unique; therefore, it’s critical that your treatment plan reflects this.
Depending on your skin type and the severity of your discolouration, you may have to undergo multiple laser treatments. Using a combination of topical creams and laser therapy is often the most effective way to achieve optimal results.
Dr Miller will identify and analyse the pigmentation issues you are facing, then customise your treatment plan to best meet your individual cosmetic goals, timeline, and budget. Thanks to the flexibility of our lasers for all skin types and shades, we can offer an adjustable program that is tailored specifically to you.
If your consultation shows that you’re an ideal candidate for laser pigmentation removal treatment and you aren’t tanned, then a patch test must be performed at least 48 hrs ahead of the first session. This will involve employing the laser on a tiny area of the target region to observe reactions. Even if you had laser treatments on some other areas of your body, for each and every new area, we need to perform a new patch test. This is because your skin may be more sensitive in some areas, and the technology, circumstances, and your condition might have changed since then.