Pigmented & Brown Lesions
How does the treatment work?
Intense light is emitted in a series of short pulses. The wavelength of the light is specially selected so that when it is directed into the skin, it is prodominately absorbed by melanin contained within freckles or lentigines (sometimes called sun spots or liver spots). These pigmented lesions will absorb the light, which causes them to heat up. The heat created damages the lesion while causing minimal damage to the surrounding skin. Following treatment, the damaged lesions turn darker and crust. Over the following 10-14 days they will gradually flake away from the skin leaving little trace of the original pigmented lesion.
How is the treatment carried out?
It is necessary to apply a thin layer of gel to the skin prior to treatment. This helps to cool the skin, as well as ensuring optimal transmission of light from the applicator to the skin.
A test patch is recommended 24 hours prior to treatment.
The quartz applicator is placed in contact with the skin surface over the pigmented lesion. The light is pulsed through the quartz and onto the skin. The applicator is then moved to the neighbouring area and the process is repeated until the entire area is covered.
Which patients can be treated?
Almost everyone can be treated, apart from very dark or tanned skin individuals. However, not all pigmented lesions can be treated. Large, dark moles should not be treated, nor should lesions covering a large part of the body. The pigmented lesions that respond the best are superficial lesions such as those caused by sun damage (sun spots) and freckles. There may be other contraindications which would prevent a patient from being treated, this is checked and discussed during consultation.
Does it hurt?
As the light energy is absorbed by the skin, it heats up and creates a sharp pin prick, burning sensation. Most patients described the discomfort as moderate and acceptable. No anaesthetic is required.
At Laserlife Clinic, we have a unique system which cools the skin for patient's comfort - this is controlled by the patient as they require it. The 'Cryo 5' is now available and will considerably reduce any discomfort experienced.
A mild warm throbbing sensation may be experienced for up to 12 hours after the treatment. Paracetamol and cool compresses may be used to help ease any side effects.
What should I expect after the treatment?
Redness and a slight burning sensation are normal after the treatment. A cool compress can be applied to the skin to ease these symptoms. The lesions will turn darker in colour immediately after treatment and may appear more obvious at first, but gradually the lesions will 'flake' away. It should be noted that continued sun exposure may result in recurrence of the original lesion and sunblock should be used to prevent this from happening.
What are the side effects?
The visible light is completely safe so no special precautions are needed apart from the use of safety eyewear for brightness. The skin of some patients becomes quite red immediately after treatment. However, most patients experience no side effects and the redness usually disappears within hours, up to a couple of days. Very rarely, pigmentation changes or blistering may occur but are not usually permanent.
How do I prepare for treatment?
Patients should avoid tanning and must not use any fake tan for 4-6 weeks prior and during the entire treatment period to avoid adverse side effects and excessive discomfort from light absorption in the epidermis.
Immediately after treatment, the skin is particularly sensitive to UV light and strong sunlight should be avoid for 2-4 weeks.
How long does the treatment last?
The length of each treatment will depend on the type and size of each lesion present, but a typical session may take 15-30 minutes.
How many treatments are necessary?
The number of treatments required will depend on the type of pigmented lesion present, but typically 2-6 treatments are recommended and will be spaced 4 weeks apart.
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