People are often interested in laser skin treatment options for sun spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation because of the physician-controlled nature of these procedures.
Since lasers are precision tools that can target very small areas with high levels of accuracy, they have become popular choices for patients who want to improve the appearance of specific concerns without undergoing a more invasive procedure. However, is laser treatment for sun spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation safe?
A dermatologist can advise on this topic.
How Laser Treatment Works
The laser treatment for pigmentation removal, also called photorejuvenation, uses pulsed light technology to remove excess pigmentation.
Currently it is the most effective way to re-establish a normal skin tone by penetrating deeply into the outer layer of the skin where melanocytes are stimulated to produce new melanin – this pigment production helps reduce dark areas on the skin. However, there are several side effects of laser treatment for sun spots like erythema (redness), scaling and crusting.
Lasers work by directing energy at the targeted area of skin to stimulate collagen production or destroy overactive pigment cells. The hope with most patients who have concerns about sun spots, melasma or hyperpigmentation is that the laser pigmentation removal will stimulate collagen production to fill in the area.
For example, a patient who has superficial sun damage can see improvement without undergoing deeper peels or dermabrasion procedures. People typically take anywhere from 1-3 months before seeing results with this type of treatment, and there may be some discomfort.
Dermatologists have many different types of lasers to use when treating sun spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation. One common method is laser skin resurfacing, which can be done with a carbon dioxide or erbium:YAG laser, depending on the depth that needs to be achieved.
These types of lasers will destroy a thin layer of skin and stimulate collagen growth to fill in the area. Those who have mild sun damage may only need a few treatments, but patients with more significant sun damage will need to undergo this procedure for many months.
The pulsed dye laser is also used for treating concerns associated with hyperpigmentation and can diminish dark areas of skin without destroying the surrounding tissue. This treatment is often combined with topical creams and light therapy for maximum results, but it can take several weeks to see any improvement. Patients who receive this type of laser may experience some redness and swelling in the treated area.
During a pulsed dye laser treatment, the doctor will direct short pulses of energy to destroy excess pigment cells. To begin, a topical anesthetic will be applied to the skin to minimize discomfort. After the laser is used, a cold compress can be applied to reduce any redness or swelling that may occur during recovery.
Once all of the sun spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation have been treated, it is important for a patient to use sunscreen on a consistent basis to help prevent new discolorations of the skin. Patients may need monthly touch-up treatments or can undergo maintenance sessions less frequently based on their unique needs.
A Quick Reminder
Since lasers are so precise, they are considered more safe than many other types of procedures for this area of the body. For patients who have mild sun damage, they are often an excellent option because they can stimulate collagen production to fill in the sun spots without causing damage to the surrounding skin.
Laser treatment for sun spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation is not a one-size-fits-all approach, however. Patients with darker skin tones or more severe concerns may require additional treatments, such as dermabrasion, chemical peels or another laser procedure.
For more information about laser treatment for sun spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation, patients should schedule a consultation with their dermatologist to determine if this is an appropriate method of addressing their unique needs.