Aesthetic clinicAre you dealing with stubborn skin pigmentation that just won’t go away? Whether it’s sun spots or age spots, laser treatments have recently emerged as a popular choice for addressing different types of skin pigmentation.
How effective is laser treatment for pigmentation in addressing these issues? Lucky for you, that’s what we’re here to answer today and more!
Today, we’ll take you over what you need to know about laser treatment for skin pigmentation and what you can expect from this procedure.
What is skin pigmentation and how does it occur?
Pigmentation is the colouring of the skin, while hyperpigmentation is when there’s an overproduction of melanin (the pigment that gives colour to the skin), resulting in darker patches of skin.
It manifests in various forms such as sun spots, age spots, melasma, and even freckles. Some common causes include ageing, genetic predisposition, sun exposure, and hormonal changes.
Hyperpigmentation can occur on any part of the body and isn’t really harmful, but it can make a person look older than they actually are. This is often the reason people turn to skin laser treatments.
How does laser treatment work for pigmentation?
Laser treatment works by using concentrated light beams to target and break down excess pigmentation in the skin.
The pigmented cells are heated up by the laser light, causing them to break down without damaging surrounding tissues. These fragmented cells are naturally eliminated by the body, resulting in lighter pigmentation and evened-out complexion.
Over time, laser treatment technologies have evolved to cater to different types of skin pigmentation and patient preferences. The most common types of lasers include fractional lasers, Q-switched lasers, and picosecond lasers.
The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes, depending on the size and extent of pigmentation, with some experiencing mild pain or slight discomfort during the process. The sensation is often compared to a rubber band gently snapping against the skin.
The number of sessions required will depend on the type of laser treatment and depth of skin pigmentation. Generally, around 3-4 sessions (spaced out at least a month apart) are recommended to achieve the best results, with significant improvements expected after each session.
What happens after laser treatment for pigmentation?
As with most skin treatments, it takes time to see the results and the treated skin pigments often darken after the procedure before they begin to fade. This is a normal process that takes about 1-2 weeks depending on skin cell turnover.
After a laser treatment session, you may experience some mild swelling and redness and minimal peeling, which may last for 1-2 days. Avoid scratching and rubbing the treated area to avoid irritation or any side effects.
Proper post-treatment care is essential for optimal results, so make sure to avoid direct sun exposure, use mild skincare products, and moisturise regularly. Stay away from skincare products or makeup that could irritate the skin too.
Once your skin is done peeling, it will start to look smoother and brighter and your complexion will be more even.
What are the benefits and risks of laser treatment?
Just like any other skin procedure, laser treatment for skin pigmentation comes with pros and cons, including:
| PROS | CONS |
| Minimal to no downtime – patients may return to their regular routine as soon as the next day
Precise technology – accurate targeting of pigmented cells without damage to surrounding tissues Long-term results – the results of laser treatments can be long-term as long as proper care and maintenance is followed. |
Scarring – laser treatment comes with a small risk of scarring, highlighting the importance of working with experienced skin practitioners.
Skin inflammation – after a laser treatment, skin may temporarily darken for around 7-14 days. |
In sum, laser treatments are considered potential solutions for addressing skin pigmentation issues and can help with achieving clearer and brighter skin. If you want to know if this is the right treatment for you, come in for a consultation today at M-Aesthetic Clinic.
SOURCES:
https://australianskinclinics.com.au/blog/what-to-expect-after-laser-for-pigmentation/
https://laserwiseclinic.com/can-laser-treatment-remove-pigmentation-understanding-the-process/
