Treating Hyperpigmentation With Laser Therapy

Lasers are being used to treat a wide variety of skin and medical conditions, from hair removal to vision correction. Now, there is a new way to treat skin hyperpigmentation with laser therapy.

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation occurs when areas of the skin are lighter or darker than the surrounding skin and can appear in the form of age spots, sun spots, acne spots, or melasma. Hyperpigmentation is caused by excess melanin in the body produced by overexposure to UV rays or skin damage. It can also be caused by some prescription medications.

How Can Laser Therapy Help Treat Hyperpigmentation?

Laser therapy, or Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL), uses light to reduce the appearance of dark spots on the skin. Unlike previous laser treatments that removed the top layer of skin, this treatment directs intense pulses of light only at the damaged tissue in the area. The healthy tissue is left untouched. Light therapy can also help treat broken capillaries under the skin and reduce scarring. Because the laser targets damaged skin only, treatments produce a smoother, more toned appearance.

What Happens During the Procedure?

During the procedure, a skilled physician or medical professional will administer a topical anesthetic and then laser therapy. A typical treatment lasts around 30 minutes.

Is the Procedure Painful?

Typically, a topical anesthetic is administered during the procedure to reduce or eliminate pain. There may be slight swelling, redness, or mild pain after the procedure, but all are temporary and should be gone within a few days after treatment.

How Long Will It Take Until I See Results?

Results can be immediate but usually take several weeks or months to take full effect. We usually recommend multiple sessions to achieve the desired results. Sun protection is also vital in keeping hyperpigmentation at bay. Patients should regularly use an SPF of 30 or more with full-spectrum UV protection.

How Much Downtime Should I Expect After the Procedure?

While it depends on the amount of surface area treated, typical downtime is minimal, lasting anywhere between one to seven days. Talk to your doctor about your specific post-procedure instructions.

Discover Even, Toned Skin with Laser Therapy From Barba Skin Clinic!

Whether you want to reduce the appearance of sunspots or diminish old acne scars, the laser experts at Barba Skin Clinic are here for you! To learn more about this treatment and other skin clearing treatments, call our office at 305-560-6813 for a free consultation or book an appointment online.