Pigment laser, also called laser treatment for skin pigmentation problems, is a cosmetic procedure that uses focused light beams to target unwanted pigments in the skin. This treatment is often used to lessen or eliminate pigment patches, age patches, freckles, and other pigment irregularities.
The consultation will help assess pigmentation, discuss expectations, and determine the most appropriate type of laser.
It is important to note that the results of the pigment laser treatment may vary from person to person, and follow-up sessions may be needed to maintain the results.
Here are some things to consider regarding laser treatment for skin pigmentation problems:
Types of Pigmentation Processed
Pigment laser therapy can be used to treat various types of pigmentation, including age spots, freckles, melasma, sunspots, and other hyperpigmented skin spots.
Types of Laser
Various types of lasers are used, in particular Q-switched lasers which emit very short and powerful pulses. The laser wavelength is adapted to specifically target pigments in the skin.
Laser operation
The laser emits pulses of light that are absorbed by the skin pigments. This absorption of light causes fragmentation of the pigments, allowing the body to remove them naturally.
Number of Sessions
The number of sessions needed depends on the nature of the pigmentation, its depth, and the individual response to treatment.
Usually, several sessions are needed to achieve optimal results. Age spots or lentigo due to sun exposure on either the hands or face are easily removed with certain medical lasers or flash lamps in 1 or 2 sessions.
Recovery
Recovery after treatment with a pigment laser may vary. Some people may feel a slight redness or a feeling of warmth, but most can resume normal activities quickly.
It is important to follow post-treatment instructions, including the use of soothing creams and sun protection.
Sun Protection
Sun protection is particularly important after treatment with a pigment laser. The skin may be more sensitive to damage caused by UV rays.
Sensations during treatment
During treatment, patients may feel a sensation of warmth or tingling but is usually well tolerated. Some lasers have cooling systems to minimize discomfort.
Possible Side Effects
Potential side effects may include temporary redness, slight swelling, itching, or temporary changes in pigmentation.
Contra indications
- Sunlight or recent UV exposure: Wait at least 1 month for Alexandrite and at least 1 week for NdYag.
- Tanning residue on the treatment area
- One application of tanners: wait at least 15 days.
- Beta-carotenes (in all forms): Wait at least 15 days.
- Tanned or tanned skin (for Alexandrite).
- A mole that is more than 3 mm or a suspicious skin lesion
- Pregnancy: Wait 3 months after completion of pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Damaged, dehydrated, fragile skin
- Completion of a sauna/hammam, scrubs: wait at least 72 hours
- Making mechanical or chemical peels: Wait at least 15 days.
- The summer season.