Pigmentation-Freckles
What are freckles?
Freckles are multiple, flat, spots on the skin due to uneven distribution of melanin (skin pigment) in those areas. They are usually about the size of a matchstick head and are reasonably uniform in colour.
They are usually situated on sun-exposed areas of the skin, including the face, neck, arms, and shoulders and usually darken after sun exposure.
Freckles often start to occur at a very young age. Freckles most commonly occur in people with lighter or fairer skin types, and in those who have a genetic predisposition to developing freckles.
Freckles are usually harmless and are not a sign of skin cancer or sun damage.
What causes freckles?
Freckles are determined by a combination of genetics and sunlight.
People with fair skin are usually more prone to freckles because they’ve got less melanocytes in their skin (skin cells that produce melanin) and so when their skin is exposed to the sun it creates clusters of pigmentation rather than an even tan. Melanocytes are typically unevenly distributed in those with lighter skin.
People with red hair are more likely to have freckles because they already have the MRCI gene (this is the gene that determines red hair and also controls whether some people have freckles). However, anyone can get freckles and they may vary in colour from light to dark brown.
Laser Spot Removal
Using Pico or Gentle Lase Pro laser technology, we can target unwanted spots and fragment the pigment without damaging the surrounding skin tissue. Suitable for all skin tones from Fitzpatrick I-VI.
Pico Brightening Facial + Spot Treatment
Picocare 450 targets and destroys almost all types of pigmented lesions with excellent efficacy. This is the most advanced technology for non- invasive fading of skin pigmentation.
Does Laser Pigmentation Treatment work on all skin types? It works on all skin tones including ethnic skin. Our clinic has the most advanced two laser machines: Candela and Pico Laser with different wavelengths for different pigmentation and skin tones.
How many treatments will I need? Depending on the type of pigmentation being treated, clients will need between 2-6 treatments. The effectiveness of the treatment will be determined by the type, colour and depth of the pigmentation along with the condition of the skin. Complete clearing of the affected area may not be possible and will depend upon the type, area and colour of the lesion.
Does laser pigmentation removal hurt? The heat from the laser is concentrated at a superficial level so it is likely that the client will experience some discomfort while the treatment is being performed. The treated area can feel like sunburn for up to 48 hours afterwards, however cold packs and cooling gel should be used to reduce redness and inflammation
How will the skin react? Following the treatment, the pigmentation will initially appear darker and can continue to deepen in colour for 48 hours post treatment. After this time the pigmentation will then begin to crust and gradually flake away. This process can take up to 14 days depending on the condition of the skin prior to treatment.
How does Pico Laser work? Pico lasers help by reducing brown pigment in both the upper & lower levels of the skin. This means fast resolution of dark spots.
- Treatment time: 45 minutes
- Interval: 4 weeks
- Preparation: SPF 50+, Vitamin C, Retinoids (stop using retinoids 3 days before & after treatment)
- Post care: apply Laser Aid for the first 3 days.
- Downtime: 2-5 days. Your pigmentation will initially appear darker for up to 48 hours after treatment. Then, the pigment will start to crust before it fades away.
- Cost: $240
Preparation
- No excessive sun exposure
- No spray tan or nay tanning
- No makeup on the day
- Use Vit C serum
- Use SPF 50+
During Treatment
During the consultation, your technicians will guide you through the post treatment care guidelines. The most important aspect of this is to ensure the use of the cooling gel directly after the treatment as this will help to reduce inflammation while protecting the skin from infection.
Aftercare
- No make up for 3 days
- Apply cooling gel 2-3 times a day for 5 days
- No excessive sun exposure
- No exfoliation until skin heals
- Avoid picking and peeling
- Always wear sunscreen