Q&A with Our Very Own Katy
Jillian Baillie Aesthetics Senior Therapist, Katy, talks you through some frequently asked questions about laser pigmentation treatment. Interested in learning more about this treatment and how it might benefit your skin? Read on to discover all the information you need to know.
What is laser pigmentation treatment?
Laser pigmentation treatment involves using an advanced medical grade laser to breakdown pigment in skin. The pigmented spots absorb the light from the laser and are gently heated, destroying the pigment which is then broken down and removed by the body. The surrounding tissue remains undamaged.
How does it work?
When melanin gathers in one spot, it becomes noticeable as a discoloured area. The wavelengths of light produced by laser technology are designed to be absorbed by these pigmented areas, causing the spots to gradually disappear. Immediately after treatment you can expect to see some mild redness. You may also see your pigmentation spots (freckles) turn darker. This is normal and the pigment naturally sheds off the skin’s surface within 7 to 14 days, depending on your skin cell turnover.
What is the preparation and aftercare?
Some important guidelines to follow prior to your laser pigmentation removal is that your skin must be clean, free of makeup/product, and have no tan for a period of 2 weeks prior to treating. It is also important that any suspicious lesions or benign pigmented areas need to be reviewed by a dermatologist. Two weeks before your appointment, any usage of topical prescription retinol or whitening creams must also be stopped. There must not be any active cold sores in the area to be treated and no waxing, laser or IPL in the treatment area.
It is important to keep the area as cool as possible immediately after the treatment. It is also normal for the heat to continue and intensify in the area after you have left the clinic. This usually only lasts for a couple of hours. During this time, you may use a cool compress or cooling gel for relief. You can start to gently exfoliate the treatment area after a few days to remove the dead skin cells, ensuring there is no picking at any scabs otherwise scarring may occur. It is also vital to protect your skin with a sunblock at all times when exposing your skin to any UV.
How many sessions do I need to do for it to be effective?
Laser pigmentation removal is very much an individual process, and will depend on the level of pigmentation in the treatment area. It is also dependent on the results you are wanting to achieve. Some people notice a significant reduction in pigment after just one treatment!
When is the best time to receive treatment?
Winter is the best time to receive laser pigmentation removal treatment. Ideally, the best time to have any type of laser treatment is during the cooler months when your summer tan has faded, and your skin has significantly whitened. When the skin is lighter, the laser accurately targets the necessary areas for the most effective treatment.
Remember to keep in mind that laser treatment may not be for everyone as everyone’s skin is different. If you’re interested in knowing if this treatment is suited to your skin, please book a free, no obligation consultation by calling 0491 346 365.
