Rid yourself of pigment spots!

Sunbathing is a delightful activity that many people enjoy; small brown spots that appear after the sun exposure are not equally loved. The newly appeared pigment spots should be taken seriously and their root causes investigated; however, these are not a problem you should worry too much about. The pigment spots are not forever with the right treatment they can be successfully removed!

 

What are pigment spots and why do they appear?

Pigment spots are pale to dark brown patches appearing on the skin. The main factor contributing to pigment spots is ultraviolet radiation that we get from the sun as well as tanning beds.

Another significant factor is hormonal change in the body. Therefore women are more prone to pigment spots during pregnancy or when taking contraceptive pills.

Depending on the cause, age, or placement on the body, the pigment spots are classified separately.

 

  1. Melasma – brownish patches on the temples, forehead or cheekbones. In addition to ultraviolet radiation genetic predisposition and female sex hormones also play a role in the development of melasma.
  2. Solar lentigo (sun spots) – light brown irregularly shaped spots, usually on the face, arms and hands.
  3. Freckles – can occur on the face, arms, and upper back; caused by genetics with fair skin being particularly prone to developing freckles.
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How to get rid of pigment spots?

Pigment is usually found at the bottom of the epidermis (i.e. upper layer of the skin); however, sometimes it can also occur in the deeper layer called dermis. In both cases laser treatment is the most efficient way of pigment removal. For the procedure Lasermed clinic uses highly recommended and quality controlled equipment that combines both IPL and Q Switch functions. Laser light of specific wavelength is absorbed in melanin and excess pigment is effectively dissolved. Therefore, the spots become gradually lighter.

Take your time!

The first step in the journey of eliminating pigment spots is a thorough consultation with a specialist who will determine the suitable treatment plan and advise on appropriate skin care at home.

The treatment of pigment spots is a long process, it takes time and patience and it is necessary to trust your skin specialist in finding the most suitable way that perfectly matches the needs of your skin.

Good to know

  • One should remember that if the procedure is not properly executed, the pigment may reappear. In addition, even a small amount of solar radiation can ruin the already achieved result. Therefore it is critically important to protect the skin from sun with SPF 50 sunscreen and appropriate clothing even in cloudy weather.
  • If possible, all the factors that cause or contribute to pigment spots should be eliminated. For instance, one might consider quit taking contraceptive pills, although the effect of it might take a long time to appear.

Before and after the procedure

  • The procedure cannot be done during a course of antibiotics; allow two weeks to pass after taking the last dose.
  • The treatment cannot be performed on suntanned skin. After sunbathing a period of at least 2–4 weeks should pass before the treatment. Self-tanners are also prohibited before the treatment.
  • The procedure is unsuitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Definite contraindications are oncological diseases, chronic inflammations, keloid scars and active herpes flare-up.
  • After the treatment slight redness may occur.
  • It is not advisable to consume alcohol for 24 hours after the procedure.
  • It is prohibited to visit swimming pool or sauna for two weeks after the procedure.
  • After the procedure sunscreen with SPF 50 should be used.