Researchers have studied laser technology's effects and benefits for several years. Data has proven that some wavelengths of light, including 755nm and 1064nm, can target the pigment in the skin and hair. Our Apogee Elite™ laser system is designed using each wavelength, allowing us to effectively seek out the unwanted pigment in your skin and break it apart so more consistent, radiant skin can emerge. Laser treatment can be performed on a number of different cosmetic concerns, including sun spots, age spots, freckles, and visible veins on the face or body.

By definition, a pigmented lesion is a spot or area of the skin that has too much pigment, or color. Pigmented lesions are usually some shade of brown. The reason spots form is that too many melanocytes, the cells that create pigment, have grown in one localized area. While freckles are a type of inherited pigmented lesion, they can worsen with sun exposure. Sun spots and age spots are primarily related to sun exposure. With too much absorption of UV light, the dermis can overproduce melanin as a way to try and protect the skin from sunburn. There is no way to ensure that melanin production is evenly dispersed. Production occurs as it will, and it often results in some areas having too many melanocyte cells. Hence, spots.

It is important that your treatments with us are as comfortable as possible. Laser treatments work by depositing energy beneath the skin, so there is an element of discomfort that could occur. Knowing this, device manufacturers often develop laser technology to include short pulses of energy and automatic cooling. The combination of these features can significantly improve the sensations you feel during your treatment. For the most part, laser treatments for pigment concerns feel like tiny snaps on the skin. Initially, these can feel odd and uncomfortable. Once you get used to them, they simply occur and pass. During your treatment session, you can also talk with your provider. We'll check in with you regarding how you feel and, if needed, can make adjustments to the device settings.

Using effective laser technology, we anticipate the full resolution of unwanted pigment. During your consultation, we will discuss your desired outcome and examine your skin for the severity of the discoloration. Provided that you are diligent about protecting your skin from the sun while undergoing your laser treatments, your spots should gradually break apart and fade away. It may take a few sessions to see full correction, but we can estimate how long we think it will take during your first visit.

It is important to understand that new spots can form over time after your laser treatment for pigmented lesions. Once we've corrected the spots that are present, we can discuss how to care for your skin on a daily basis, and which conservative treatments you may schedule periodically, to reduce the chances of new pigment problems in the future.

The Apogee Elite™ system is designed to address most pigmented lesions. Because the wavelengths of light in this treatment are attracted to melanin, we can treat spots caused by the aging process, sun spots, freckles, and tiny veins called telangiectasias.

When you schedule your laser treatment for pigmented lesions, we'll discuss how you can take care of your skin to promote the most efficient cellular turnover. In general, it is necessary to cleanse the skin with gentle soap and to apply moisturizer at least once a day. Depending on the intensity of your laser treatment, you may be advised to apply an emollient cream multiple times a day. Additionally, sunscreen use is a must after laser skin treatments. Your skin may be slightly more susceptible to irritation and sun damage after your treatment, so it is imperative to protect it with broad-spectrum sunscreen and, if you'll be outdoors, a hat.

The results are usually not permanent. Even under the best sunscreen conditions, eventually enough UVA/UVB rays will get through to bring pigmentation back.

As with any laser procedure, the most common side effects are burning, blistering, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.

If you are considering laser removal of pigmented lesions in Orange, TX or Lake Charles, Sulphur, Moss Bluff, and Jennings, LA, contact our office today.