The Benefits Of Laser For Hyperpigmentation
Our bodies are all unique to one another, but that doesn’t stop certain imperfections and irregularities from diminishing our self-esteem. Despite being an extremely common skin condition, hyperpigmentation still causes insecurities among women all over the world. Below, we explain hyperpigmentation, what causes it, and how those affected can benefit from laser skin rejuvenation.
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is caused when the skin produces more melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour, leading to spots and patches of skin that are darker than the surrounding areas. There is a wide range of reasons for hyperpigmentation to appear on the skin, but the most common is sun exposure. Pigment may also appear on the skin after an injury; burns, cuts, and acne, especially those that have been picked at over the healing process—this is known as trauma-pigmentation.
In younger women, pigmentation on the body is usually the result of the skin condition melasma—brought on by a combination of solar radiation and hormones. Older women generally see pigmentation appear on their face and arms, as these are areas that have seen a lot of sunlight throughout their lives. Hyperpigmentation shows itself on the skin in the form of dark spots, blotches, and freckles, all of which see benefits from laser therapy.
It may not seem like a big deal, but we’re all too aware of how our insecurities and imperfections can dramatically reduce our self-confidence. Most people tend not to notice pigmentation blemishes on the skin of others, but it can have a detrimental impact on the confidence and self-esteem of the person affected.
The Benefits Of Laser
Laser therapy or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a simple cosmetic treatment that exposes hyperpigmentation with concentrated light, breaking down the melanin. Once broken down, the melanin is drawn to the skin’s surface without harming the tissue beneath, eventually flaking off and leaving an even complexion. IPL can treat most areas of the skin, with most treatments occurring on the face, neck, chest, and hands. It typically only takes one or two treatments to see the desired results.
After the procedure, the area subjected to IPL will look worse than the initial pigmentation. If the treated area is on the face, makeup can be used to cover this blemish without issue. Through our body’s natural rejuvenating cycle, the graze will shed off and heal, usually within 4-21 days following treatment.
After a treatment session there are minimal side effects, but most people experience a bit of redness and a sunburn-like sensation, or possible swelling in the following days. These side effects are only temporary, so if they continue, you should seek health advice.
Reducing pigmentation visibility is not the only benefit that can be seen through laser treatment. IPL is great for general skin rejuvenation, taking around three sessions to see improvements on fine lines, pore size and the general health of your skin. These benefits are a result of the IPL stimulating collagen, which can reduce fine lines on the face and pore size, leaving with a glowing, evenly toned complexion.
Does It Work For Everyone?
Unfortunately, only lighter skin tones can be treated safely with IPL, due to the inability of the machine to make the distinction between the damaged area, and the natural skin tone surrounding it. If you have a darker skin tone and worry about uneven skin tone, alternative treatments can benefit pigmentation without damaging the surrounding skin. Dermamelan Peels are an alternative way to treat blemishes with positive results seen across all skin tones.
Feel Comfortable In Your Skin Again!
Whether you want to rid yourself of the insecurities bought on by skin conditions, or are just looking for general facial rejuvenation, look no further than The Skin Department. With a combined 20 years of experience, you’ll feel comfortable in the hands of our lovely team, who strive to look after every patient and their individual needs. If you want to know more about pigmentation treatment or any of our other services, contact the team and book a free consultation today!