Pigmentation is a complex skin condition resulting in highly dysfunctional cell-to-cell communication of the cells and systems involved in the manufacturing and transportation of melanin throughout the epidermis (outer most layer of skin). Pigmentation results when there is an over proliferation (growth) of melanin synthesis within the skin due to extrinsic factors such as the sun as well as intrinsic factors such as internal inflammation and hormonal fluctuations that influence the melanocyte IE pigment producing cell into making too much melanin. The end result, naturally, is an uneven skin tone.

So what can be done?

Booking in for a 1.5 hour skin consultation is the first step in minimizing the appearance of pigmentation as you can’t simply zap a lesion away with a laser and/or IPL machine without treating the root cause as to why the pigmentation is there in the first place. Building up the skin’s barrier defence systems with physiological barrier repair products, topical antioxidants, tyrosinase inhibitors as well as sunscreen and other topical necessities is of upmost importance when it comes to treating this highly complex skin condition. Client compliance is 100% required to achieve satisfactory results and this condition is entirely YOUR responsibility. Your skin treatment therapist will be here to educate and guide you through your pigmentation journey so if this is a skin condition that bothers you and/or is having an impact on your self esteem, please get in touch to find out what you can be doing to improve the appearance of your pigmentation.

IPL pigmentation treatment is useful in reducing the colour of dark lesions, including:

  • Sun spot removal
  • Age spot removal
  • Liver spots removal

This treatment uses Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology, which is similar to laser treatment, but is safer and more effective on light-skinned people.

Note that for this treatment a doctor’s letter is required, confirming that there are no skin cancers present before commencing treatment.

How Effective Is It?

This treatment is most effective on light-skinned people. As IPL is attracted to melanin, the colour in the skin, some skins may be too dark for safe treatment.

I will be recommending products to use in conjunction with your treatments to help stop the pigment recurring. These are from dermaviduals and have tyrosinase inhibitors to help minimize the appearance of brown spots from recurring. Check out Pigmentation

Please read this article also that is on my news page pigmentation treatments. Noticeable results are often seen after one treatment, but more may be needed for optimal results.

Usually sun damage such as sun spots and liver spots on the back of the hand, decolletage and face will respond well.

What Should I Do Before Treatment?

  • Avoid sun exposure for six weeks prior to treatment.
  • Always use a 30+ sunblock.
  • Avoid solariums, spray tans and instant tan products in the area to be treated.
  • Remove makeup from the face if it is being treated.

What’s Involved in the Treatment?

  • An initial consultation takes around 30 minutes. At this time I will take a photo and perform a test shot. This enables me to get the best settings for your skin and let you know what it feels like.
  • Your eyes will be covered with pads and goggles, a cool gel applied to the area, and a flash is triggered.
  • You may feel a brief stinging sensation. Some people liken it to a flick of a hot rubber band.
  • Treatment can commence five days after your initial consultation.

What Happens After Treatment?

  • Avoid hot showers for 24 hours.
  • Makeup can be applied after treatment.
  • A slight sunburn sensation may last for up to several hours.
  • There may be some redness in the treated area, and pigmented lesions will darken noticeably within a few hours of treatment.
  • Some people may experience some swelling for a day or two.
  • After treatment, the skin may have a ‘dirty, scabby’ look for 3-4 days, or up to 2-3 weeks, depending on the area treated.
  • In some cases, a crust may form. DO NOT pick at it!
  • Avoid all exposure to the sun and wear 30+ sunblock daily on exposed areas. If hands are treated, it is recommended to wear gloves while driving.
  • Treat the area gently. If in the rare instance that you get a blister, please notify me and keep the area moist.

If you have any concerns after your treatment please contact
Mary from Mary’s Skin Care in Launceston on 0438311297.

IPL can also be used to effectively treat facial redness or broken capillaries.
Click here for more information.