Reduce freckles, age spots, and larger patches of discoloured skin with our broadband light(BBL) pigmentation removal, bleaching creams and skin peels.
Excess pigmentation is known as hyperpigmentation. Types of hyperpigmentation include age spots, freckles, melasma and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Treatments include strict sun protection, various creams including hydroquinone, retinoids and azelaic acid as well as laser and BBL therapy.
Pigmentation and sun damage can make you appear older than you are. A combination of affordable treatments that reduce skin discolouration and reveal a younger looking you.
At Wollongong Dermatology we use state-of-the-art lasers/BBL to perform treatments and are experienced in the reduction of superficial pigmentation delivering fantastic results. Laser Pigmentation Removal works to safely and effectively reduce the appearance of freckles, pigmentation and post-trauma pigmentation including acne scars and age spots.
The laser/BBL targets only the pigmented lesion in the skin which absorbs the light, without damaging the surrounding skin. The laser/BBL heats up and shatters the pigment. The pigment is then drawn to the surface without harming the surrounding tissue. Once drawn to the surface, the pigmented lesions will fade or dry and flake off the treated area, leaving the skin with an even tone and complexion.
Pigmentation can be a very unpleasant skin condition. As there are no known cures, it can lead to frustration and lack of self-confidence, but with the right pigmentation treatment you can keep it under control and maintain a youthful appearance.
Pigmentation Causes
- Exposure To UV Rays
- Hormonal Changes
- Certain Medications
- Pregnancy
- Skin Trauma
Frequently asked questions
How common is pigmentation?
Some pigmentation disorders, such as liver spots, are incredibly common, whereas others, such as albinism, are rare, affecting approximately 1 out of every 17,000 people. Melasma mostly affects women, affecting men just 10 percent of the time. Other types of hyperpigmentation affect men and women equally. Melasma is more common in people with darker skin and may run in the family.
How can I avoid pigmentation?
To prevent hyperpigmentation, or to stop it becoming more prominent:
- Avoid exposure to the sun. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect the skin and stop pigmentation from becoming darker.
- Avoid picking at the skin. To prevent pigmentation from forming after an injury, avoid picking at spots, scabs, and acne.
What treatments are available?
Some cosmetic procedures can also lighten areas of skin to reduce the appearance of pigmentation, such as laser therapy, intense pulsed light and chemical peels. In addition, your dermatologist may recommend topical creams to assist in lightening the pigmentation.
Will the treatment hurt?
None of the treatments listed are described as particularly painful, but please notify your dermatologist if this is an issue for you and they can prepare a method to manage the pain.
Should I expect any side effects?
After treatment, the area may experience redness, slight swelling and a mild burning sensation, this may last for up to 2 days and is completely normal. Other side effects may include: superficial crusting, temporary undesirable pigmentation, cold sores, and blistering may occur.
How often will I need treatment?
For the best possible results, we recommend 1 to 4 treatments, although additional treatments may be required depending on the density of pigmentation and severity of UV damage on the skin. As long as healing from the previous session is completed treatments can take place every 4 to 6 weeks. The average session takes approximately 30 minutes but will vary depending on the size of the area being treated.
What should I expect post-treatment?
Improvement may be visible after the first session. Long-lasting results will be achieved with commitment to the use of sunscreen and avoidance of sun exposure.
Further Information
Understanding Pigmentation
Guides and fact sheets for people with pigmentation and treatment options.
Questions for your Dermatologist
A practical checklist of questions for your dermatologist during and after treatment.