Laser Treatment is a good non-surgical method for the removal of benign lesions and is an excellent option for pigmented lesions such as freckles because the melanocyte cells that are causing the pigmentation will be completely ablated.
The Procedure
During treatment, Q-switched Laser pulses are applied directly to the area of the lesion. The skin cells containing excess melanin absorb the intense laser energy, and degenerate while the surrounding skin tissue stays unharmed.
After treatment, as the area heals, the immune system flushes away the dead skin cells and reveals lighter, unblemished skin.
Procedure time depends on the size and the number of the lesions treated.
Patient may experience slight discomfort during the procedure, but the side effects are minimal. You will be provided with post treatment instructions which you require to follow carefully.
Typical Results
Most pigmented lesions can achieve complete removal after an adequate number of sessions. Some small lesions (such as freckles or age spots) may take a single treatment to remove – other can take multiple treatments, depending on a variety of factors.
How to Prepare for your Treatment Day
- Avoid excessive sun exposure for approximately one to two weeks prior to your treatment. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to protect your skin. If you are spray-tanned, please exfoliate to help remove the tanning product in the treatment area.
- If you have a history of cold sores, be sure that the doctor is notified in advance of scheduling your treatment. The doctor will prescribe an oral anti-viral medication for you prior to your treatment.
- Stop applying any “irritating” skin products at least one day prior to treatment.
- If the doctor has written any prescriptions for medications to be used after your laser treatment, have these filled by your pharmacist and available the day of your treatment.
- Arrive on time for your laser treatment with clean skin, we will advise you on the amount of time you need to allow for your treatment session to be relaxed and comfortable. Female patients should not wear any makeup/mascara, lotions, powders or perfumes on or around the areas being treated. Male patients can shave the morning of their treatment but should not apply lotions or aftershave on or around the areas being treated.
- Wear comfortable loose fitting clothes and shoes.