Shine Medical Cosmetic Clinic

Laser treatment - Pigmentation

LASER PIGMENTATION

What is Laser Pigmentation?

When your body overproduces melanin, the pigment responsible for skin’s colour, the outcome is scattered, irregular dark spots on the skin called hyperpigmentation. Laser treatments are an effective solution to fade hyperpigmented spots and brighten the complexion, either as a standalone treatment or alongside topical creams that contain depigmentation agents. Laser pigmentation treatments are delivered using the Limelight IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) technology. This specially designed laser is absorbed only by the cells containing excessive concentrations of melanin. It does not affect the surrounding tissues or remove the normal skin color. This is a non-invasive approach to revitalising skin with the advantage of improving skin tone, removing unwanted skin pigmentation and surface imperfections.

What does Laser Pigmentation do?

Laser Pigmentation Removal works to safely and effectively reduce the appearance of freckles, pigmentation, sun spots and age spots. The laser targets only the pigmented lesion in the skin which absorbs the light, without damaging the surrounding skin. 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 fade or dry and flake off the treated area, leaving the skin with an even tone and complexion.

Where is Laser Pigmentation used?

Treatments can be used to treat specific pigmented lesions or more generalised pigmentation. It is important to note that Dr Shyna does not offer any treatments in intimate areas.

Is Laser Pigmentation safe?

Laser hair removal can be dangerous in inexperienced hands. Burns, permanent changes to your skin colour and scars can occur. You can greatly reduce the risk of possible side effects by having your treatment performed by a medical doctor who is appropriately qualified, trained and skilled in using lasers and has in-depth knowledge of the skin.

What is the process for receiving treatment?

The first step is to book your no obligation consultation. This will take place at a time convenient to you with Dr Shyna herself. At the consultation, Dr Shyna will undertake a comprehensive 30 minute assessment to identify your needs and to determine if the treatment is suitable for you and safe for you to receive. Following this assessment, Dr Shyna will give her recommendations as to what treatments may benefit you, including other treatments available. Prior to any treatments being carried out, the procedures and their risks and costs will be clearly explained. At this point, if it is decided to proceed with treatment, you will be required to have a patch test prior to receiving treatment. This involves a few shots of the laser in the area to be treated. You will then need to wait 24-48 hours to have the full procedure, if there are no adverse reactions from the patch test. As part of the treatment process, before and after photographs will be taken following your consent. These photographs are strictly confidential, as are the rest of your records. After the treatment, you will given full post-procedure aftercare information.

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At a glance guide

Length of procedure

Variable depending on the size of the area to be treated, treatment will generally take about 20-30 minutes.

Anaesthetic needed

Down time

None

Benefit seen

Variable depending on the level of pigmentation. For optimal results, 3-6 treatments are

recommended every 4-6 weeks.

How long do the effects last

Variable. For some patients, pigment removal is permanent. However, excessive sun exposure will cause further pigmentation,

Post procedure care advice

Investment

Small area - from £100

Medium area - from £150

Large area - from £200

(see prices page for full details)

Frequently asked Questions

Are there any reasons why I cannot have Laser pigmentation treatment?: As with any medical treatment, there are some situations or conditions which mean someone is not able to receive the treatment for safety reasons. Some contraindications are absolute, meaning the treatment is not suitable for anyone with those conditions. Laser pigmentation treatment is absolutely contraindicated in Body Dysmorphic syndrome, pregnancy or breast feeding, active skin cancer, skin infection at the proposed treatment site, open wound at the proposed treatment site, metal or electronic implants within 6 inches of treatment site, presence of dysplastic nevi or questionable pigmented lesions, age < 18 years, Fitzpatrick skin type IV-VI.

There are also some relative contraindications. These are conditions that mean the treatment may not be suitable, but this depends on individual circumstances. For laser pigmentation treatment, relative contraindications include a tendency to excessive scarring, use of Accutane or isotretinoin within the last 6 months, Gold Therapy (may cause blue-grey discoloration), anticoagulants (may increase risk of purpura or bruising), Herpes (pre-treatment with an antiviral may be indicated), tattoos or permanent make-up at treatment site, sun exposure, tanning beds or artificial tanning 4 weeks prior to treatment, botox within 2 weeks of treatment, dermal fillers within 4 weeks of treatment, photosensitizing drugs (antibiotics, doxycycline, tetracycline, hydroquinone, etc.), cancer, autoimmune disorders, immunosuppression and bleeding disorders. Please be assured that Dr Shyna will fully assess the presence of any contraindications during her comprehensive assessment with you and will ensure your safety is maintained at times.
What do I need to do before my Laser pigmentation treatment?: In order to ensure the best results are achieved, the following pre-treatment advice should be followed:

Do not wear makeup on the treated area on the day of treatment, Avoid sun-tanning or self-tanners for 4 weeks prior to treatment (this Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun exposure, etc.), avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, harsh chemicals, etc.), history of herpes or cold sores may require an anti-viral prescription prior to treatment.
Are there any side effects of Laser pigmentation treatments?: As with any medical treatment, there are always potential side effects and complications. When laser pigmentation treatment is administered by appropriately trained practitioners, the risks of side effects are minimal. There are some common side effects of laser pigmentation treatment such as redness, bruising or swelling in the treatment area. These are usually mild and will usually settle within 24-48 hours, but this can vary in individual cases and may take a few days. There are rare complications of laser pigmentation treatment, but as part of her comprehensive assessment and consent process, Dr Shyna will ensure that you are fully informed about all potential side effects before administering the treatment. You will also be given full aftercare advice and contact details if you have any concerns after the treatment.
Is Laser pigmentation painful?: Some discomfort and/or pain may be experienced during treatment, but topical anaesthetic may be used prior to treatment if required. Most people liken the treatment to the mild discomfort of having a small rubber band snapping on the skin.