Skin pigmentation is a widespread issue that impacts numerous people across the globe. While typically not dangerous, it can greatly impact an individual’s self-confidence and self-assurance because of its effect on their physical appearance.
The emergence of modern pigmentation laser therapies, such as Pico Laser, has revolutionised how we address skin pigmentation.
Shedding Light on Skin Pigmentation
Skin pigmentation is the natural colour of the skin, which is determined by the amount of melanin produced by the body. Melanin is a pigment that is produced by specialised cells called melanocytes, and it is responsible for giving the skin its colour.
Some of the factors that can affect skin pigmentation include:
Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is a significant factor that contributes to skin pigmentation. When the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, it triggers the production of melanin, resulting in a darkening of the skin.
Continuous exposure to the sun can cause age spots or lentigines, which are flat, brown patches that appear on the skin.
Hormonal Changes
Changes in hormones, such as those that occur during pregnancy or when using birth control pills, can cause melasma.
Melasma is a skin condition marked by the presence of dark and uneven patches on the face and other areas of the body. This condition is more frequently seen in women and may gradually diminish as time goes by.
Inflammation and Injury
Inflammation and injury, like acne, cuts, or blisters, can also result in skin pigmentation. This condition is referred to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which occurs when the skin produces an excessive amount of melanin in response to inflammation or injury. Consequently, dark patches or spots may appear on the skin.
Genetics and Family History
Skin pigmentation is influenced by genetics and family background. Some people have a higher likelihood of developing pigmentation disorders because of their genetic composition.
Inherited conditions such as albinism and vitiligo can impact the overall colour of the skin or create areas with lighter or darker pigmentation.
Autoimmune Conditions
Autoimmune disorders like Addison’s disease can result in changes in skin pigmentation. In this situation, the body’s immune system mistakenly targets and damages its own melanocytes, causing modifications in the colour of the skin.
Pico Laser for Pigmentation Issues
The Pico Laser is designed to deal with problems regarding skin pigmentation in recent times.
This pigmentation laser treatment, which is approved by the FDA and does not require invasive procedures, uses quick laser pulses to break up pigments in the skin. The body’s immune system subsequently naturally removes these broken pigment particles, resulting in a noticeable decrease in pigmentation.
The Pico Laser differs from traditional lasers by producing picosecond pulses instead of delivering heat to the skin. This innovative feature creates a “photoacoustic” effect rather than a photothermal one, which means that the pigments are broken down using pressure waves instead of heat.
As a result, there is a reduced risk of burns and scars, making the treatment safer and more comfortable.
How Pico Laser Treatment Works
The Pico Laser procedure starts with a discussion with a dermatologist to evaluate the kind and size of skin discolouration, as well as the wavelengths to be used.
Throughout the treatment, the dermatologist will use the Pico Laser on the affected area. Since the laser pulses are quick, patients usually tolerate the treatment well, often describing it as a succession of quick, tolerable pricks.
The Pico Laser focuses specifically on the areas with pigment, without causing any harm to the surrounding skin. It boosts the production of collagen and enhances skin rejuvenation, resulting in not only reduced pigmentation but also improved skin tone and texture.
This treatment is fast, usually done in just 15 to 20 minutes, with very little recovery time required.
The Efficacy of Pico Laser
Research has indicated that Pico Laser procedures are successful in diminishing different types of pigmentation, such as age spots, freckles, sun spots, melasma, and even persistent pigmentation like nevus of Ota.
It is also recognised for its efficacy in treating acne scars and tattoo ink. The outcomes usually become apparent after several sessions, although the timeframe may differ based on the kind and extent of the pigmentation.
After the treatment, patients claim to have a more uniform complexion, diminished pigmentation, and an overall revitalised look. It is recommended, as with any other pigmentation laser treatment, to use sun protection and maintain a good skincare routine in order to preserve the results.