Skin Pigmentation Treatment

The term Hyperpigmentation (pigmentation) describes the darker spots on the skin. These spots appear to be the result of excess melanin production. This can be a result of sun damage, hormone fluctuations, or acne scars.

There are three main types of hyperpigmentation: melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and age spots. Melasma is a form of pigmentation caused by hormonal changes, often seen in pregnant women or those taking birth control pills. PIH occurs after skin inflammation or injury, such as acne breakouts or cuts. Age spots, also known as sunspots or liver spots, are caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays.

Many types of pigmentation, such as age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, can be treated. Pigmentation is not a dangerous skin condition, and people can treat it by practising removal techniques such as laser treatments or, in some cases, prescribed creams.

It depends on the type of pigmentation and the treatment used. Some types, like age spots, can fade with proper skin care and sun protection. However, other types may require more intensive therapies or only partially disappear. It's essential to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of action for your specific pigmentation concerns. Keep in mind that even if pigmentation does fade or disappear, it may reappear over time without proper maintenance and care.

The best treatment for pigmentation depends on the type and severity of the condition. Some common treatments include laser therapy, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and topical creams or serums containing ingredients like hydroquinone or retinoids. It's essential to consult with a dermatologist to determine the most effective treatment plan for your individual needs.

During your treatment, the laser light is targeted at the area of unwanted pigmentation. The laser then fires in ultrashort (picosecond – one trillionth of a second) pulses. These pulses shatter the melanin in your skin into very minute particles, which the body then eliminates using its natural processes.

A popular option is laser therapy, which uses targeted light beams to break down the excess melanin in the skin. During the treatment, a specialised laser is directed at the area of pigmentation, delivering ultrashort pulses that shatter the melanin into tiny particles. The body's immune system then naturally eliminates these particles.

Yes, vitamin C can be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation. It acts as a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten skin tone by inhibiting melanin production. It can also help to fade existing pigmentation and protect the skin from further damage caused by UV exposure. Incorporating vitamin C into your skincare routine can benefit those looking to reduce the appearance of pigmentation on their skin. However, it is essential to note that results may vary, and consistent use is vital for optimal effectiveness. Consulting with a dermatologist is recommended to determine the best treatment for your specific skin concerns. Combining vitamin C with laser therapy or other treatments may also provide better results.

Yes, before completing a complete treatment, you should always have a consultation and patch test. The consultation is vital for you to share any medical data that could be a factor in your treatment and get any questions you have answered. The patch test is a small trial of using a laser on your skin to check for any adverse reactions. At Pulse Light Clinic, consultation and patch tests are offered free of charge.

Laser pigmentation removal is quite a hot treatment, and therefore, many clients use numbing cream, which you can buy from a pharmacy and apply before the treatment. However, knowing that this treatment can affect the results is essential.

This varies from person to person, depending on certain factors. It mostly depends on the depth of the lesion being treated, skin type, age of the lesion, and hormonal factors. To achieve optimum results, it can take as little as one treatment or up to several, typically with a 4-6 week interval.

It is recommended that heat and exercise be avoided over the next few days. The area should not have any friction for several weeks post-treatment. Therefore, do not scrub or exfoliate the area. If you notice any darker skin peeling/falling off in the area treated, don’t worry—it is a good thing, as the old affected skin is being removed.

The length of time for pigmentation to fade varies depending on the individual and their specific treatment. In general, you can expect to see improvements within a few weeks, with complete fading taking several months. It is important to continue following any aftercare instructions given by your specialist to help speed up the fading process and maintain optimal results.

Factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, and skincare routine can also affect how quickly pigmentation fades. It is essential to wear sunscreen daily and avoid excessive sun exposure, as UV rays can cause further damage to the skin and prolong the fading process.
In some cases, multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve desired results. Your specialist will be able to assess your progress during follow-up appointments and make recommendations for additional treatments if needed.

Immediately following the treatment, you may have some redness and swelling for 24- 48 hours, but this will rapidly diminish. Certain patients may experience a temporary darker discolouration around the treated area, but this will typically resolve over the next few weeks to reveal lighter-looking skin.

At Pulse Light Clinic, we accept all major debit and credit cards. We also offer flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your treatment, including PayPal Pay in 3 and finance plans through Omni Capital. PayPal Pay in 3 allows you to split the cost into three interest-free payments, while Omni Capital offers interest-free finance over 6 or 12 months on selected treatments, with extended payment plans also available. Our team will explain the available options during your consultation.