Laser Pigmentation Treatment

The colour in our skin is provided by melanin. It is uneven distribution of melanin which leads to the development of pigmented lesions such as include moles, freckles, age spots, or melasma (a dark, patchy discolouration).

Generally speaking these patches of pigmentation relate to various degrees of damaged skin. Sun exposure is the main contributory factor, but blemishes could be caused by genetics, life cycle, hormonal changes or other factors.

Laser and IPL treatments use intense light to target the melanin in the darkened areas of skin, break it down into tiny fragments and disperse it naturally through the body’s lymphatic system. This results in the clearing of all of the pigmentation layers, removing the appearance of spots and skin hyperpigmentation to reveal even-toned, unblemished skin.

Cosmedics Aesthetic Doctors use the Harmony XL Pro laser machine. This is a very advanced and versatile machine which treats a range of conditions using specially designed settings to deliver the best possible impact.

Medical Director, Dr Ross Perry personally selected the Harmony XL Pro machine for excellent safety with outstanding results.

Many people think that IPL and laser skin treatment will be uncomfortable or painful. However, the Harmony XL Pro system is safe and comfortable in use.

There is no need for local anaesthetic, numbing or chilling prior to treatment. You can expect to notice a warming sensation but it will not be uncomfortable.

Simultaneous contact cooling technology is incorporated into the applicator tip to cool the skin during treatment for longer periods of time, ensuring a more comfortable treatment for patients.

The Harmony XL Pro laser machine features include:

• 1064 Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser technology
• High powered Near Infrared technology
• Double rod laser configuration maximises energy production
• Narrow pulse widths with multiple peaks of energy

1. It is normal for the treated area to feel a bit sunburned for a few hours. You can use a cold compress or paracetamol if needed.
2. Avoid bathing with very hot water, strenuous exercise, or massage 2-5 days.
3. If showering, use warm/tepid water – not overly hot – and mild soap. Pat skin dry (do not rub)
4. Avoid picking or scratching the treated skin to achieve your best results. Aloe Vera gel can be helpful in calming any irritations
5. Wait for any initial swelling or soreness to go down before using makeup. For aggressive treatments, it is recommended to use new makeup to reduce the possibility of infection.
6. Keep the area supple using moisturiser. Choose a product without AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids)
7. Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for 1-2 months and throughout the course of the treatment
8. Avoid tweezing, waxing, bleaching or chemical peels on the treated area during the course of the treatment
9. Do not use any products containing Retin-A, Benzoyl Peroxide or astringents as these could irritate sensitive skin

Most clients experience mild swelling which may last around 1-2 days. There are no dramatic side-effects and no ‘downtime’, so you can return to work/normal activities the next day.

It is really important to avoid the sun (including tanning beds) in order to reduce the chance of dark or light spots.

Use sunscreen SPF 25 or higher at all times throughout the treatment when going outside. Also bear in mind that sun exposure is the main cause of pigmentation problems and prevention is the best means of ensuring that they do not recur in the future.

Yes, laser pigmentation treatments are specially designed for patient comfort and are safe and effective for all skin types and colours, including dark skin. See https://www.almalasers.com/treatments/aesthetics/pigmented-lesions/.

Most sun spots are harmless, but you should always monitor any skin irregularities and changes of shape, size, colour or behaviour, as certain irregularities might indicate malignant melanoma, a form of skin cancer. If in doubt, contact your GP for an assessment.

Our doctors also specialise in mole checks and mole removal, so if your sun spot turns out to be a mole, we can offer appropriate mole removal treatment options, together with testing for peace of mind.

We quote prices per session, with a discount for any follow-on sessions within a course of treatment. Your quote will be confirmed at your consultation, after assessment of your skin and discussion of your objectives. Please see the pricing table for latest guidance.