Pigment Laser

Conditions Treatable by a Pigment Laser

Age Spots

Commonly found on areas of the skin exposed to the sun, age spots appear as small, dark patches. The laser directly targets these spots, breaking down the dark pigments, which the body then gradually absorbs and eliminates.

Sun Spots

These are similar to age spots but are typically larger and can appear on any sun-exposed area of the body. Pigment laser treatments can reduce their appearance by targeting the melanin that gives these spots their dark colour.

Melasma

This condition causes grey-brown patches, mainly on the face. The laser targets the melanin in these patches, helping to lighten them significantly over a series of treatments.

Freckles

Freckles are small, concentrated spots of melanin that can be prominent and numerous on individuals with lighter skin. Pigment laser can lighten freckles, achieving a more uniform skin tone, particularly with repeated sessions. 

Benefits of Pigment Laser Treatment

Minimal Pain

The treatment involves minimal discomfort, often described as a mild tingling or snapping sensation similar to the flick of a rubber band against the skin. This makes it a tolerable option for many patients.

Safety

Pigment Laser Treatment is considered safe for various skin types. It uses precise wavelengths of light to specifically target pigmented areas without damaging surrounding tissues.

Minimal Downtime

One of the significant benefits of this laser treatment is the minimal downtime required. Most patients can resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure.

Lasting Results

With a proper treatment plan, which may involve multiple sessions, the results of pigment laser treatment can be long-lasting. The treated areas gradually fade, leading to a more even skin tone and a clearer complexion.

The Procedure of the Treatment

The procedure for Pigment Laser Treatment is straightforward and quick, typically completed within a few minutes to an hour, depending on the area being treated. Initially, a detailed consultation and skin assessment are performed to tailor the treatment plan to the patient’s specific needs and skin type. During the treatment, the patient will wear protective eyewear to shield the eyes from the laser light.

The laser device is then adjusted to the appropriate settings, and the practitioner carefully directs short pulses of light to the targeted pigmented areas. These pulses selectively break down the dark pigments in the skin, which are later naturally eliminated by the body’s immune system.

After the procedure, a cooling gel or cream may be applied to soothe the skin. Patients are advised on aftercare procedures to ensure optimal healing and results. This might include avoiding direct sunlight and using sunscreen to protect the treated areas. Although some redness and swelling may occur immediately after treatment, these symptoms usually diminish within a few hours to a couple of days. Follow-up treatments may be scheduled to achieve the best results, depending on the initial response and the extent of the pigmentation.

Price and Number of Treatments Needed

The pricing for pigment laser treatments varies, influenced by factors such as the location of the clinic, the proficiency of the practitioner, and the technology used. Typically, prices range from $200 to $600 per session. The number of required sessions generally falls between 2 and 6, with intervals of approximately one month between each session. This variance is mainly due to the type of pigmentation being treated and the individual’s skin response to the laser. A consultation with a skincare professional can provide a more accurate estimate based on personal skin conditions and treatment goals.

Other Skin Treatments

Chemical Peel

A chemical peel is a gentle yet effective treatment that uses medical-grade acids of varying strengths to exfoliate the skin. This process aids in rejuvenating the skin by shedding old, dull layers to reveal brighter, more vibrant skin underneath. It’s particularly beneficial for addressing active acne, reducing acne scars and blemishes, and minimising skin dullness and pigmentation. With minimal downtime, it’s a convenient option for those looking to enhance their skin’s texture and tone while maintaining their daily routines.

Resurfacing Laser Treatment

The Resurfacing Laser Treatment targets deeper layers of the skin with precise energy, stimulating collagen production and triggering the body’s natural healing response. This advanced treatment is designed to smooth out skin texture, diminish acne scars, and reduce signs of ageing, resulting in a rejuvenated complexion. Despite its powerful effects, the procedure is well-tolerated thanks to topical anaesthesia, ensuring comfort throughout the process. It’s an ideal choice for individuals seeking to restore their skin’s natural glow and achieve a smoother, more youthful appearance.

Rejuran Treatment

Rejuran is a treatment that leverages polynucleotides from salmon DNA to rejuvenate the skin. These polynucleotides share similarities with human DNA, offering a safe and effective method for improving skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and enhancing overall skin clarity. By delivering essential nutrients deep into the skin, Rejuran promotes natural healing and renewal, making it an excellent option for those looking to revitalise their complexion, minimise pores, and reduce the visibility of acne scars. This non-invasive treatment gradually improves the skin’s condition, offering a refreshed and more youthful look.

FAQs

What is a pigment laser?

A pigment laser is a specialised laser treatment designed to target and reduce skin discolorations like age spots, sun spots, and melasma. It works by directing short pulses of intense light onto the affected areas, which absorb the light and break down the dark pigment into smaller particles. These particles are then naturally cleared away by the body, resulting in lighter and more even skin tone.

How many sessions does laser pigmentation removal require?

The number of sessions required for laser pigmentation removal varies depending on the severity and type of pigmentation, as well as the patient’s skin type and the desired outcome. Typically, multiple sessions are needed, with many patients seeing significant improvement after 2 to 5 treatments. Each session is spaced several weeks apart to allow the skin to heal and respond to the treatment.

What are the side effects of laser pigmentation removal?

Common side effects of laser pigmentation removal include temporary redness, swelling, and mild discomfort at the treatment site. Some patients might also experience itching or a mild burning sensation immediately after the treatment. Less commonly, there can be blistering, changes in skin texture, or unwanted changes in skin colour, particularly if post-treatment care instructions are not followed properly.

What happens if you laser too much?

Overuse of laser treatments can lead to adverse effects such as skin irritation, increased redness, burning sensations, and potential damage to the skin’s surface. Excessive lasering might also cause hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, where the skin becomes darker or lighter than the surrounding areas, respectively. It is important to follow a professionally recommended schedule and allow adequate time for skin recovery between sessions to avoid these risks.

Can pigmentation be fully removed?

Laser treatments can completely eliminate certain types of superficial skin pigmentation. However, more ingrained or complex pigmentation conditions, such as melasma or other deep-set pigmentation, generally experience a reduction of around 70-90%. The effectiveness of the treatment varies based on factors like the depth of the pigmentation and individual skin properties. As such, while laser treatments significantly lessen the appearance of deeper pigmentation, achieving completely clear skin might not be possible in all cases.