The process of laser pigmentation treatment starts with a consultation, where a trained professional will evaluate your skin and conduct a patch test. Ideally, you should avoid direct sunlight for at least two weeks before the treatment. You should also avoid facial waxing or electrolysis for at least one week. After the consultation, your clinician will prepare the area for the treatment, and may apply a special gel.
Low energy wavelengths
Low energy wavelengths are effective for treatment cost in patients with fair skin. These wavelengths are preferred over higher energy wavelengths due to their less harmful effects. These wavelengths can be used for a variety of dermatologic applications, including depigmentation and skin resurfacing.
The skin’s melanin content is highest in the topmost layers, making it difficult for shorter wavelengths to penetrate deep. These shorter wavelengths can also interfere with melanin in surrounding tissue. Because of these differences, longer wavelengths may be more appropriate for darker skin. However, shorter wavelengths may be more appropriate for certain pigmentary skin conditions, which require a customized treatment approach.
Various types of lasers are available for treating pigment alterations. These include the Nd:YAG laser, pulsed dye laser, and carbon dioxide laser. The latter is nonselective and used to treat tattoos and deeper pigmented lesions. However, patients often complain of more discomfort and prolonged downtime.
Using the appropriate laser wavelength for a particular patient’s skin type is critical for optimal treatment. Longer wavelengths penetrate deeper into the dermis and are most effective for large vessels, while the shorter wavelengths interact with the melanin pigment in the skin’s epidermis.
Despite the fact that most low energy wavelengths may seem insignificant, they are still highly effective in treating pigmentation disorders. In addition to skin resurfacing, these lasers can be used for hair removal in any area of the body. They can also treat photo-aged skin and wrinkles. A clinician must first diagnose the condition of the patient’s skin before deciding which wavelengths to use for the procedure.
Side effects
Laser treatment of pigmentation can cause some side effects. The first one is inflammation. The second one is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Laser treatments are performed on an outpatient basis. There is a recovery period after laser treatment. It is advisable to discuss the risks of laser treatment with your dermatologist.
After laser treatment, skin may be red and swollen for about 24 hours. Patients should avoid makeup and excessive exposure to the sun in the days before and after treatment. In addition, they should use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect the skin from sun damage. Patients should avoid smoking for at least two weeks prior to the treatment.
Other common side effects of laser treatment include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and erythema. These side effects are more common in people with darker skin. Patients with darker skin are more sensitive to laser treatment. Patients with light skin types are not at risk of these side effects. Laser treatments with low-fluence 1064-nm Q-switched ND-Yag laser have been reported to be safe for dark-skinned patients in Mumbai.
Conclusion
Laser treatment is effective in reducing skin pigmentation. Results are long-lasting, though several sessions may be required. After laser treatment, patients must follow the recommended after-care. If undergoing laser treatment for pigmentation, be sure to seek medical advice from a dermatologist with adequate experience and the necessary qualifications. Some of the potential side effects of laser treatment include slight stinging, redness, swelling, and bruising. The skin may also become dry.
