Pigment Problems
All pigmented lesions contain melanin, it conveys colour to hair and skin and functions to protect the skin from sun exposure (ultraviolet radiation). The quantity of melanin in the skin is increased by sunlight, resulting in the process known as tanning. Lasers are effectively used for the treatment of pigmented lesions because they can selectively damage or destroy the darker area with little or no damage to the surrounding skin. Laser light is absorbed by the pigment melanin, where it is converted into heat causing break-up of the darker areas.
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Age spots before treatment |
After 3 treatments
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Lasers are ideal for treating the following pigment problems:-
- Brown age spots (also called liver spots or solar lentigines) are pigment accumulations in the upper layer of the skin due to sun exposure. They occur on the face, neck, chest and back as well as forearms and hands.
- Freckles (epithelides) are small spots of concentrated pigment stimulated by the sun that remain in stable locations on sun exposed areas.
- Café-au-lait spots are the light brown colour of milky coffee; they can be small or large and appear on any part of the body.
The complex choice of which laser to use in the treatment of a pigmented lesion is often taxing for the most experienced laser physician. It depends on numerous factors including the type and depth of lesion, its size and location, and the patient’s underlying skin type. It is important that intervention does not make matters worse. A full medical consultation is essential for diagnosis, confirmation and exclusion of pigment problems associated with malignancy such as melanoma. At Cambridge Skin and Laser Clinic all consultations for pigmented lesions are carried out by a doctor.
Our expert medical team has in excess of 15 years laser experience and have completed more than 40,000 successful treatments. Rest assured you are in safe hands. All procedures at Cambridge Skin & Laser Clinic are performed by fully qualified doctors and nurses. We do not employ therapists or technicians to operate our laser systems. To ensure the highest ethical standards are maintained at all times, staff at Cambridge Skin and Laser Clinic are never offered bonus incentives to sell treatments.
All consultations are free of charge so why not call our team of experts today?
How does the treatment work?
Laser light is absorbed by the pigment melanin, where it is converted to heat causing break-up of the darker areas. Because only the darker area is precisely targeted by the laser the surrounding areas are not harmed.
Can all skin colours be treated?
We do not treat pigment problems on darker skin types due to the high risk of hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin’s complexion).Treatments are limited to lighter skin types I-III.
Is the treatment painful?
The energy is delivered in very short flashes of laser light called pulses. As the laser light pulses impact onto the skin’s surface the sensation is similar to the snap of a thin rubber band. The procedure only produces mild discomfort.
Which laser and IPL systems do we use?
Cambridge Skin and Laser Clinic offer 4 laser systems that can help reduce discoloration of the skin:-
- Long Pulsed Alexandrite laser (755 nm)
- Q-switched Ruby laser (694 nm)
- Q-switched KTP laser (532nm)
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) 540 – 950nm and 570-950nm
Are there any after-effects following the treatment?
Within 5-10 minutes of treatment, mild redness (erythema), mild swelling (oedema) and darkening of the lesion (hyperpigmentation) will be evident around the treated lesions. The mild redness and swelling may be evident for several hours, it is similar to sunburn and usually does not interfere with daily activities. There is usually no blistering or bruising. The lesion will continue to darken and exfoliate for several weeks.
What type of post-treatment skin care is necessary?
Following and throughout the course of laser treatment, the treated skin is sensitized to sunlight. It is essential that a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen SPF 30 or greater is used daily.
Who performs the treatment?
All procedures at Cambridge Skin & Laser Clinic are performed by fully qualified doctors and nurses. We do not employ therapists or technicians to operate our laser systems.
Is laser treatment safe?
There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest that laser treatment can lead to skin disorders or an increased risk of skin cancer. Our laser centre is registered with the Healthcare Commission, ensuring the highest level of safety for our patients. Our lasers are fully cleared by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have full CE clearance in Europe.
| PRICE PER SESSION: | |
| Cambridge Skin and Laser Clinic can advise you on the right treatment for your skin. Prices start from £75 per session. Call now to arrange a free consultation with our experts. |
Please Note: Prices quoted are per session and are an approximate guide only. If you require a more accurate pricing prior to consultation, please contact us directly. Although laser treatment may seem expensive, one must bear in mind the enormous acquisition and maintenance costs of the laser devices.
A combination of treatments at Cambridge laser has transformed my life. I look younger and feel more confident and people tell me I look refreshed. I will definitely carry on with treatments and maintenance treatments.
Hl