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Laser Treatment for Pigmentation

It is difficult to determine why skin pigmentation occurs in some individuals more so than others, which can make it a complex condition to treat. Patients who consult with the physicians at Laserderm Dermatology & Cosmetic Laser Surgery are either experiencing symptoms related to hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation on visible areas of the body and are seeking treatment options that can help them regain an even skin tone. Laser therapy for pigmentation disorders is one of the most effective and controllable methods to alleviate dark or light marks on the skin. We offer both the Cynosure Elite+ Aesthetic Workstation and the Syneron Candela eMatrix laser system to rejuvenate the skin and eliminate skin pigmentation.

What is Skin Pigmentation?

Skin pigmentation is characterized by either an abnormal abundance or lack of melanin in the skin. The condition takes place within skin cells called melanocytes, which produce certain amounts of melanin or pigment that give us either a lighter or darker complexion. When a pigmentation disorder occurs, it is usually in reference to three conditions known as hyperpigmentation (darkening skin), hypopigmentation (lightening skin), and depigmentation (complete lack of skin color). Oftentimes, these conditions are harmless, but require protection from environmental elements that could cause further damage. However, many individuals who experience forms of skin pigmentation wish to have it treated for cosmetic purposes.

Experts are unsure of what exactly causes skin pigmentation, but the condition has been linked to heredity, hormonal changes, certain medications and sun exposure. Skin pigmentation often does not become cause for concern until it affects areas on the body that cannot be easily covered by clothing or cosmetics. When the condition becomes too time-consuming to mask, it’s time to consider more permanent methods of treatment.

How Can Laser Therapy Help Eliminate Pigmentation?

Unlike other treatment methods designed to alleviate skin pigmentation, laser therapy penetrates below the skin’s surface to disintegrate the pigmented skin cells that are causing hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Additionally, both the Elite+ and eMatrix lasers stimulate collagen production in the skin, which is a healing carbohydrate that provides natural revitalization to the skin’s surface, further eliminating the uneven skin tone that skin pigmentation creates.

Cynosure Elite+ Aesthetic Workstation

The Elite+ laser is comprised of two wavelengths that can be used simultaneously to create the most customized approach for your pigmentation disorder. Doctors can use the dual system to create an optimal wavelength for a patient’s specific case and administer laser treatment that is safe and effective. The 755nm Alexandrite and 1064nm Nd: YAG lasers each produce long-lasting results when combined to treat skin pigmentation and are constructed to provide the most comfortable administration for patients. Additionally, the laser tip comes in a variety of spot sizes that allows physicians to provide treatment that is more precise and less at risk for damaging the surrounding skin.

Syneron Candela eMatrix

The eMatrix laser uses sublative skin treatment to promote natural rejuvenation. Sublative treatment refers to laser penetration that stimulates the collagen production necessary to improve skin texture while leaving the skin’s outermost layer intact. The eMatrix laser works by using light energy to make small holes in the skin’s surface, inducing collagen and replacing dark or light pigmentation marks with smooth, even skin. The system uses two laser tips to deliver an adjustable amount of energy to the skin to create the most aesthetically pleasing results for any skin type.

Preparing for Your Laser Treatment

To determine whether laser treatment is the right approach for your skin, the specialists at Laserderm Dermatology & Cosmetic Laser Surgery will evaluate the pigmentation issues you are experiencing and suggest the best method treatment. Because each laser is adaptable to all skin types, your treatment plan is completely adjustable to your specific cosmetic goals, timeline and budget. The patient-focused technology provided by each laser means faster results and less downtime in between appointments, so although you may experience some redness and slight irritation at the treatment site after your procedure, any side effects should subside after a few days and you should be able to return to your daily routine almost immediately.

Depending on your skin type as well as the severity of your pigmentation disorder, multiple laser therapy sessions may be required, and a combination of topical creams and laser therapy may be used to produce the most effective results. Treatment sessions should last no more than 30 minutes and are typically performed four to six weeks apart in order to allow the skin to heal and rejuvenate properly. The amount of treatment sessions required for your individual case will be determined by a physician during your initial consultation.

You no longer have to conceal skin that has been impacted my unappealing pigmentation; contact Laserderm Dermatology & Cosmetic Laser Surgery to learn more about the laser treatments that we provide. Our cosmetic coordinator would be happy to schedule a consultation for you to discuss procedural steps, risk, recovery and costs.