Aging is natural and happens to us all, and with it comes certain unwanted changes. Sun damage, hormones and injury or trauma can cause our skin coloration to change or darken resulting in an uneven appearance. Of course while some love their freckles and others see their age spots as badges of honor, not everyone feels the same way about hyperpigmentation. So even though it’s not a serious condition, many women and men want to treat their hyperpigmentation for cosmetic reasons with options like laser pigmentation removal.
Laser pigmentation treatment targets unwanted brown spots and patches, significantly lightening the appearance of hyperpigmentation. As a result, skin tone appears more even and smoother, dramatically improving patients’ confidence.
How does laser pigmentation removal work?
Laser pigment correction uses concentrated light of a certain frequency to lift unwanted color from the skin. The results are a more uniform, lighter complexion. Because the causes of skin discoloration are generally age related, this treatment is generally performed on individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. However, it can also help individuals of any age who have developed melasma due to pregnancy, suffer from genetic hyperpigmentation or simply have unwanted freckles.
It addresses:
Say goodbye to age spots, melasma and unwanted freckles for good with the VersaPulse Q-Switched
At Artemedica we use the latest laser systems, the VersaPulse. The VersaPulse Cosmetic laser system combines four lasers in one system including three proven Q-switched lasers optimized for pigmented lesions. This laser system penetrates the skin’s surface without damaging it. These devices release energy in extremely short bursts (one-billionth of a second) so pigment clusters deeper within the dermis can absorb heat without compromising surface skin. The laser is absorbed by the targeted lesion, eliminating the targeted, pigmented cells.
No two laser pigment correction treatments are the same. Sessions are relatively short compared to other laser skin care treatments and generally take only a few minutes. Your treatment will depend on the size, scope and concentration of the hyperpigmentation to be treated. Similarly, the appearance of treated areas immediately after treatment will vary from patient to patient; some see significant results and others minor ones.
Recovering from laser pigment correction treatment
Immediately following your laser pigment correction treatment, you may turn to your regular daily activities. We do suggest that you avoid spending time in direct sunlight without sunscreen and refrain from wearing makeup or using certain skincare products. If you have any questions about what skincare products to avoid, feel free to ask your clinician or aesthetician. Following treatment, your skin will become a little pink, sensitive and may swell. These side effects should diminish within 12 – 24 hours. You may experience dryness or itchiness in the following days as your body sheds dead skin cells.
Your skincare concerns and desires will determine the number of treatments needed. Some patients only require 2 treatments, while others need as many as 6 or more depending on the color, quantity, size, depth, and location of the pigmented lesions. Following your treatments, you will want to be mindful of your sun exposure. Wear sunscreen to protect your new skin, and consider periodic maintenance treatments to preserve your results. You and your skin care provider can discuss a personalized treatment regimen tailored just for you.
Laser Pigmentation Removal at Artemedica in Sonoma County
Dr. Lacombe has devoted his 28 year career to helping Santa Rosa residents reach their facial plastic surgery goals. In fact, he co-authored Lasers in Aesthetic Surgery which is considered a standard must-read textbook for aspiring plastic surgeons. Dr. Lacombe is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as the American Board of Otolaryngology (Head and Neck Surgery). Many men and women in Santa Rosa and throughout Sonoma County choose Dr. Lacombe as their plastic surgeon of choice because of his experience, his skill, and his passion for helping his patients.
If you are interested in laser pigmentation treatment or other laser skin procedures, please fill out the form below or contact our Santa Rosa (707) 577-8292 office for your free consultation.
