Age Spots Treatment
High concentration of melanin creates pigmented spots on the skin, which we call “Age Spots.”
Age spots are caused by overactive pigment cells. Ultraviolet (UV) light speeds up the production of melanin, a natural pigment that gives skin its color. This high concentration of melanin creates pigmented spots on the skin, which we call “Age Spots.”
PicoSure is the first picosecond laser technology, which delivers ultra short bursts of energy measured in one trillionths of a second to shatter the pigment into small particles that are absorbed and discarded by our immune system.
The PicoSure Laser is a unique treatment option for melasma because it does not produce heat so it doesn’t “burn” the pigment, it shatters it. Without heat, there is no risk of causing inflammation in the skin and therefore much less risk for triggering melasma.
A secondary benefit of the PicoSure Laser’s unique picosecond pulse is “cell-signaling” that produces significant rejuvenation of the treatment area resulting in tighter, brighter skin with an improvement in texture and tone. All that with absolutely NO downtime. PicoSure Laser is also a great treatment for a person with darker skin types.
The procedure is fast, straightforward and only causes a bit of minor discomfort. The sensation of these lasers removing the unwanted pigmentation feels almost like a rubber band lightly snapping on your skin. Each session lasts a mere ten minutes, meaning that the treatment is easy to work into your busy lifestyle.
Pico Sure After Care
Precautions to take before your light-based treatment:
- No sun exposure, tanning beds and sunless tanning cream for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Sun exposure decreases the effectiveness of the laser treatment and can increase the chance of Post treatment complications.
- Use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply to the treated area every 2 hours when exposed to the sun and it is recommended to make this a part of your skin care routine.
- Remove all makeup, creams or oils prior to treatment.
- Be sure to inform your care provider if you have ever had cosmetic tattoos or cosmetic pigmentation or permanent makeup applied near the area of treatment.
Instructions following your laser treatment:
General (Pigment and tattoo)
- Cleanse the treated area at least daily with water and mild soap, and then pat the area dry.
- Do not rub or scratch the treated area.
- If crusting/scabbing occurs, do not shave or pick the area. Apply Aquaphor ointment (tattoo) or other moisturizer (face) to the area 2 - 3 times per day. Keep the area moist, and let the crusting/scabbing resolve on its own.
- If you are prone to breakouts or have oily skin, consider waiting 24 hours before applying any topical products.
- Discomfort may be relieved by cold gel packs and/or an over the counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen.
- Avoid contact sports or any other activity that could cause injury to the treated area.
- Avoid swimming, soaking or using the hot tub/whirlpool until the skin heals.
- Contact your physician if there is any indication of infection (redness/tenderness or pus).
