Tattoos & Age Spots

How does the laser work?


A laser generates an intense beam of light. This beam brings energy to a specific site through a small hand piece connected to the laser. The laser light is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin (bright red blood cells carrying oxygen) and melanin/pigment (black or brown pigment found in the skin) causing decomposition or destruction of unwanted cells by heat while leaving healthy cells intact.

What is a pigmented lesion?

Melanin is the dark pigment present in skin and is produced by melanocytes. Pigmented lesions occur when an abundance of melanocytes are found in the skin. When dark pigment multiplies it forms freckles, brown age spots and moles. Dermatosis papulosa nigra (very small and numerous slightly elevated dark papules or bumps, on the face, particularly on the cheeks and near the eyes) is also an example of a pigment containing lesion.

Who is a candidate?

Anyone, male or female, who desires to attempt to remove, fade or significantly lighten the presenting brown skin lesions, brown birthmarks or tattoos.

Which areas of the body can be treated?

Lasers may be used on all areas of the body. Your technician will determine the appropriate laser for your treatment. Do not pick at the treated areas.

How many treatments are necessary?

The number of treatments needed to acquire certain results will vary from patient to patient. Discussing this is always recommended. Tattoo removal can take between 5-10 sessions; while melasmas (brown pigments) usually only take 2-3 sessions. Patients usually begin to see changes as their skin heals over a two to three month period of time.

How is the procedure performed?

Treatment begins by cleansing the skin and applying a topical cream to numb the treatment area about an hour prior to treatment. This is to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure. A hand piece is used to direct a beam of laser light to the specific area of treatment. Some patients reported feeling a slight stinging sensation, similar to being snapped with a rubber band, during the treatment. This is usually followed by redness which can go away in 2-4 hours.

What should be expected during recovery from treatment?

After treatment is completed you should apply a topical to soothe the skin for a few days. Lesions and age spots will darken over the first 48 hours then begin to disappear over the next two weeks.

When will results be apparent?

Final treatment results should be evident within 2-3 weeks after treatment. In the meantime, normal daily activities can by resumed with only a slight redness evident at the treatment area.

Feel free to Contact Us today about scheduling a Free Consultation.

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