Pigmented Lesion Removal FAQ

• What are pigmented lesions?
• How are pigmented lesions removed?
• How many treatments can I expect?
• What does it feel like?
• What can I expect after treatment?
• How do I prepare for the treatments?

What are pigmented lesions?

Whether you are dark or light complexioned, we all have varying amounts of melanin. Pigmented lesions are dark in color simply because melanin is abnormally concentrated in one area of the skin. High concentrations of melanin can be due to various factors. Some types are present at birth, but most occur with age or as a result of overexposure to the sun's damaging rays.

Pigmented lesions can be successfully lightened or removed with modern laser technology. A laser removes pigmented lesions with the energy of light.

How are pigmented lesions removed?

A laser has a specific light wavelength which is absorbed by the pigment. Pigmented lesions are either lightened or removed when the laser passes through the skin but is absorbed by abnormal concentrations of melanin. The rapid absorption of light energy causes the melanin to destruct to a point where the melanin concentration is reduced, leaving the treated skin looking uniform in color and texture.

How many treatments can I expect?

The number of treatments depends on a couple of different factors. It may only take one or two treatments or it could take several treatments to get the desired results. We say to expect up 5, but in most cases, it will take less. In rare cases it may not help at all.

What does it feel like?

It feels like a rubber band snap. It is very tolerable.

What can I expect after treatment?

Usually, within an approximate time of 20 minutes you will see that the treated area darkens slightly. It can take up to 3 weeks for the discoloration to slough off. It may feel like a slight sunburn sensation for a few days following the treatment. In some cases it may look like a superficial burn and in rare cases a blister may appear. It is very important to follow all post treatment instructions and stay out the sun for at least a 4 week period following treatment to avoid irritation to the treated area. If you cannot avoid sun exposure then a sunscreen of no less than 30 SPF should be used.

How do I prepare for the treatments?

It is very important for you to stay out of the sun prior to treatment as this could cause discoloration in the treated area. We recommend staying out of the sun the 4 weeks prior to treatment and throughout the treatments series. If you cannot avoid sun exposure you should use a minimum sun screen protection of 30 SPF or higher.