Pigmentary changes of the skin, or hyperpigmentation, form as a result of excessive melanin production and is referred to as pigment spots. Those pigmentary changes, appearing due to different causes, have colours ranging from light to dark brown and slightly rise over the skin surface because of the swelling of the horny layer. Stains differ in size, location, and shape. Pigment spots broaden in cause of time and become more apparent and perceptible. The skin looses its freshness, and looks rough and less attractive aesthetically.
The following pigmentary changes are treated with laser: melasma, brown, sun/age spots, freckles, and café-au-lait spots.
Pigment skin rejuvenation
Skin rejuvenation means the procedure performed in order to renew the skin and includes removal of pigmentary, age, and sun-caused changes. Laser-treated areas see increased skin tonus by 10-30 % and smoothing of wrinkles due to the production of stimulated collagen and elastic fibre. The skin looks smooth and younger. The results are especially visible when the procedure is performed for women in the decollete area – the skin becomes more elastic.
Why is laser treatment effective?
The ray emitted by the laser is well absorbed by the pigment melanin, which is present in pigment spots in high concentration. A huge amount of energy is instantly transferred to a microscopically small skin area. All the energy is absorbed by the pigment spots of the skin within an extremely short period of time which is, however, not enough for surrounding tissues to heat up. Therefore, the laser ray does not disturb the integrity of the skin and does not cause any side effects. The procedure removes pigment spots in an effective and quick manner, and the skin pattern smoothens as a result of synthesis of new cells as well as collagen and elastic fibre promoted by the energy emitted by the laser.
In which areas can pigment spots be laser-treated?
Laser can treat pigment spots appearing in all parts of the face and body. Women most frequently undergo procedures in the areas of the face, neck, especially decollete, external side of the hands, forearms, and legs. For men: in the areas of the face, neck, arms, and back.
How long does it take to treat pigment spots with laser?
The procedure in the area of the face and neck take around 3 minutes; treatment of pigmentary changes of the skin that cover bigger areas, i.e. on the chest, takes 10-15 minutes.
How many procedures should be performed?
At least 1 or 2 procedures should be performed. Rarely, 3 or 4 procedures are performed. Pigment is removed to a complete or greater extent after the first procedure. If some pigment still remains after the first procedure, the next procedure is performed 3 weeks later.
How will the skin look like after the procedure?
Pigment spots may become darker for a few days after the procedure, and will become lighter or disappear completely in 5-7 days. Hygiene products and make-up can be used as usual the next day after the procedure.
Follow this link to see clinical photos and videos of the procedures.
To read more about pigment spots and their causes, please visit – pigment spots information page.
Laser treatment of sun-affected skin. Photoaging
Skin damage caused by the sun is manifested in various changes in the pigmentation and structure of the skin. Brown uneven stains on the skin – sun spots or age spots and other pigmentary changes of the skin, reduced skin elasticity and increased wrinkling are caused by long-term action of the sun.
Photoaging means premature aging caused by the harmful action of the sun and appearing in case of long-lasting exposure of the skin to ultraviolet rays. Very many people are dissatisfied with their appearances as a result of abusing suntans. The pleasure experienced from the sun and golden colour of the skin during young years is replaced in the course of time with photoaging and can cause severe diseases. It can trigger development of sun lentigo, seborrheic keratosis, telangiectases, cherry angiomas, derman elastosis, and even skin cancer. Despite of the use of high SPF filters, the damage caused by the sun during many years aggregates and can only be corrected by the consequent avoidance of sun exposure.
Those who have faced photoaging can be given help today. The laser used in our clinic effectively removes the harm caused by the sun and restores the healthy and natural appearance of the skin.