Eager to know if Laser Pigmentation Removal Works? Learn more in our Concise Guide!
Skin is the biggest organ of our body, and is a direct reflection of our internal and external health. Therefore, maintaining it to keep it looking its best is important. Pigmentation is one of the most common issues people face, especially as they mature. Different types of pigmentation include freckles, sun spots, melasma, Hori’s Nevus, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), moles, birthmarks and the list goes on. It is important to get your pigmentations properly diagnosed by an experienced doctor to prevent mis-diagnosis of melanoma (pigmented cancerous growth) and to treat them appropriately to obtain the best possible outcome.
How is Hyperpigmentation Caused?
Hyperpigmentation is caused by increased melanin production, which is a natural pigment responsible for determining your skin, hair and eye color, and is present in the skin to varying degrees. The main factors responsible for triggering melanin production are sun exposure, hormonal influences, age and skin injuries or inflammation.
How can we Improve the Look of or Remove Pigmentation?
Most pigmentations are benign and they are not harmful to your general health. Especially in our climate where sun damage is prevalent, many patients are affected by this condition. Regular skincare products with active ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, arbutin, and using sun protection can help to prevent progression. However, over the counter products are not very effective in lightening existing pigmentations. If your pigmentations bother you, you should seek professional opinion early. Your doctor would be able to recommend a suitable treatment for your type of pigmentation.
Some professional treatments which are clinically proven to treat pigmentations may include:
Laser Treatments
- IPL (Intense Pulse Light) Treatments
- Prescription Creams
- Chemical Peels
When it comes to already existing pigmentation disorders, issues like PIH, freckles, and melasma can deter you from achieving clear skin. PIH occurs due to irritation or damage to the skin, and is more common in deeper skin tones (as it has more melanocytes (cells producing melanin). Skin problems that lead to PIH include acne, burns, eczema, insect bites, allergic reactions, and more. Freckles and melasma on the other hand are caused by sun exposure and hormone therapy or pregnancy respectively.
Specialised treatments that focus on pigmentation disorders can help you achieve an even skin tone. These include treatments like topical hydroquinone, retinoid, corticosteroid, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, kojic acid, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels.
Does Laser Pigmentation Removal Work?
Yes, laser pigmentation removal treatment works effectively on skin cells, and provides visible results with as little as 1-3 treatments. This depends on the area being treated, the type of pigmentation, and duration or length of recovery time. Laser pigmentation removal is quick, gentle and non-invasive, and minimises and eliminates the appearance of pigmentation – for optimal results.
Does Laser work for my type of Pigmentation?
This depends on the type of pigmentation you have. For superficial pigmentation like freckles, laser treatment can work well. However, deeper pigmentation types such as melasma are not easy to fix with lasers and can also lead to issues such as patchy lightening of the pigmentation. You can ask your doctor for further information on how to treat your particular type of pigmentation.
How Does it Work?
Laser pigmentation removal uses non-invasive laser technology to eliminate melanin (pigments) from the cells. The laser machine produces a wavelength of high-energy light, which is then converted into heat energy. This works by targeting the specific area of pigmentation, because the laser is absorbed only by cells containing a great amount of pigmentation.
These pigments are shattered into smaller pieces, which in turn are cleared by the body’s natural removal process. This leads to a visible improvement in pigmentation. Apart from reducing melanin pigments, laser treatments also brighten skin and treat uneven skin tone.
What Do You Experience During the Treatment?
During the laser treatment, you can expect a very mild, ant-bite like sensation. There’s no cause for worry, as the laser is definitely not painful, and overall comfortable to work with. For stubborn depth of pigmentation, your doctor may recommend a stronger laser, which will lead to scabbing. Therefore, a week’s downtime might be required for recovery.
Can laser remove pigmentation permanently?
Usually, pigmented lesions or spots that have been removed will not return after your laser treatments. However, there are various factors that can stimulate new hyperpigmentation e.g. exposure to UV, ageing, hormonal factors. Laser pigmentation removal treatments do not prevent new hyperpigmentation from occurring
