Pigmentation and Melasma treatment
Hyperpigmentary disorders like Post-Inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and Melasma cause serious emotional and social stress to patients. Even though many treatment techniques have been created for various types of pigmentation, managing pigmentation is still a problem due to its refractory and repeated nature. With the introduction of laser technology, there are now several treatment options for mixed or dermal Melasma.
Laser treatment is one of the most exceptional treatments for eliminating unwanted pigmentation on the facial skin.
Types of pigmentation
The changes in your skin’s pigment (melanin) are referred to as pigmentation. There are various types of pigmentation, and they respond differently to a particular treatment. The right diagnosis of the kind of pigmentation you have is crucial if you gain from the treatment plan. The types of pigmentation are
Freckles
This is the most regular type of pigmentation. Freckles or ephelides develop after consistent exposure to sunlight. These types of pigmentation are more visible in people who are light or fair in complexion. They look darker during summer and fade in during winter.
Solar lentigines
Also known as sun spots or liver spots, solar lentigines have a clearly defined edge and occur on any body part.
These pigmented spots result from constant exposure to UV light and must be examined frequently as they tend to be melanoma and skin cancer. Regular checks with a certified dermatologist are essential.
Melasma
Melasma is a type of pigmentation that occurs deep within the dermis. It is seen as a large brown patch that has an irregular border. Melasma or Chloasma occurs more in women. Although the causes of Melasma are unknown, it is mostly stimulated by an increase in hormones.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
An injury causes PIH to the facial skin, dermabrasion, acne, friction, burns, and chemical peels. PIH often fades away gradually and may be treated with over-the-counter topical products; however, it can still recur.
All the pigmentation stated above can be treated with different kinds of laser.
Lutronic spectra Q-switch nanosecond laser
Lutronic Spectra is a mild laser that emits nanosecond laser pulses of energy to reduce skin pigmentation visibly. Spectra lasers reduce uneven pigment, fine lines, and textural irregularities.
How does it work on the skin?
The pulse of energy delivered by the laser gently penetrates the tissue, targeting and heating the melanin within cells. The targeted melanin is then discarded as the body begins to heal. The pigment will darken slightly while the body eliminates the pigment.
Using Spectra to treat pigmentation is very mild on the skin, which is why numerous passes are used to treat pigment like Melasma effectively and safely.
What is the wavelength of the Lutronic spectra Q-switch nanosecond laser?
Lutronic produces 4 distinct wavelengths – 532 nm, 585 nm, 650 nm, and 1064 nm in nanosecond pulse. It is created to treat various skin problems like epidermal and dermal pigmented lesions, melasma multicolour tattoos, and acne.
How long does it take?
Lutronic spectra laser treatment does not need topical anesthetics. The duration of each section varies session varies, and it depends on the targeted area. On average, it requires 25 minutes to apply carbon and another 20 minutes for the main procedure.
What is the cost of a Lutronic spectra Q-switch nanosecond laser?
A spectra laser treatment costs between $200 and $425. As with other laser treatments, the price of a Lutronic spectra laser treatment depends on the size of the affected area and how deep into the skin the pigment is.
Fraxel dual lasers
Fraxel dual lasers are used majorly for skin textural improvement, pigmentation, acne scarring, lines, and brown spots. Fraxel Dual Laser treatment is safe as the skin is left intact. Fraxel DUAL laser treats pigmentation effectively and improves the skin’s appearance by stimulating collagen production.
Fraxel dual laser treatment is unique and effective for pigmentation because about 40 percent of the skin is targeted simultaneously. It also takes about four days for the treated area to heal.
What frequency is used by The Fraxel Dual Lasers?
The Fraxel Dual lasers have two unique frequencies – 1550 and 1927, which target the dermis and epidermis layers of the skin. It is effective for treating various types of pigmentations.
How long does it take?
Fraxel Dual laser requires 20 minutes to complete a session; however, it depends on the targeted area’s location, size, and condition.
What is the cost of a Lutronic spectra Q-switch nanosecond laser?
The cost of a Fraxel dual laser treatment depends on the skin’s condition. However, the cost of this treatment ranges from $700 to $1,000 per session. Note that if you must benefit maximally from the treatment, you will need about 4 to 6 sessions with a 3 weeks space.
What are other available treatments for skin pigmentation?
Alexandrite 755nm
This is a quick, non-invasive, and gentle treatment for skin pigmentation. The pulse of laser energy is absorbed by the cells having high concentrations of skin pigment. The laser keeps the surrounding skin intact and does not affect the skin’s normal colour. After the treatment, the treated area becomes visibly dark; however, it will shed off eventually after 7-10 days.
Harmony XL Pro laser treatment
The laser targets where there is an excess pigment and works to break down the pigment safely. The treatment promotes collagen production for smooth and clearer skin. It is an excellent treatment for stubborn pigmentation, which is very difficult to conceal with makeup.
Skin issues treated by the Harmony XL Pro laser include
- Sunspots
- Patchy skin tone
- Enlarged freckles
- Age spots and liver spots
Other treatments may include the application of topical creams and sunscreen. Nonetheless, laser treatments are encouraged some skin pigments are removed completely. It is also a quick and safe procedure.
What are the necessary precautions after a Fraxel dual Lutronic spectra Q-switch nanosecond laser treatment?
Make sure you follow your dermatologist’s advice on caring for your skin after the procedure. For the treated area to heal properly, always wear sunscreen, preferably SPF 30 or higher. Stay away from direct sunlight for about 4 months after the last treatment. Wear skin-protective clothing like hats and veils.
What should I expect after a treatment?
After treatment, you will feel as if your skin is sunburned and may appear red or pink. The appearance can be covered with light makeup. Your skin will bronze naturally for about two weeks, and as you continue the treatment, you will still experience a sunburned-to-bronzed look. Afterward, the treated area will flake and peel off normally. Make sure you use a moisturizer to diminish the formation of dry flakes.
What are the benefits of using lasers for the reduction of pigments?
Fresher, Smoother, and younger-looking looking skin
Reduction of fine lines around the eyes
Improved texture and tone
Removal of unwanted brown pigments