Pigmentation Treatments

Hyperpigmentation isn’t necessarily a condition but a term that describes skin that appears darker. It can:
- occur in small patches
- cover large areas
- affect the entire body
While increased pigmentation usually isn’t harmful, it can be a symptom of another medical condition.

There are several types of hyperpigmentation, the common ones being melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Melasma. Melasma is believed to be caused by hormonal changes and may develop during pregnancy. Areas of hyperpigmentation can appear on any area of the body, but they appear most commonly on the stomach and face.
Sunspots. Also called liver spots or solar lentigines, sunspots are common. They’re related to excess sun exposure over time. Generally, they appear as spots on areas exposed to the sun, like the hands and face.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is a result of injury or inflammation to the skin. A common cause of this type is acne.

Pigmentation can be removed by laser with laser treatment being one of the most effective and advanced ways to remove it pigmentation. Age spots, sun spots, melasma, freckles or dark spots can all be treated with a laser which effectively targets the melanin by up to 80%.

The laser heats up and shatters the pigment. The pigment is then drawn to the surface without harming the surrounding tissue. Once drawn to the surface, the pigmented lesions will fade or dry and flake off the treated area, leaving the skin with an even tone and complexion.

The wavelengths of light produced by laser technology are designed to be absorbed by these pigmented areas causing the spots to gradually disappear. The treatment is quick and not usually painful however, any discomfort experienced can be eased with an ice pack.

Pigmentation concerns, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage, dark spots, melasma, freckles, and other skin discolouration, may require 3 or 4 treatments to correct. However due to everybody unique nature and composition some individual will require less or more sessions.

The side effects may include slight redness, soreness, inflammation, redness, swelling, itchy skin. Hypo-pigmentation (skin lightening) or hyperpigmentation (skin darkening) may also occur.