Pigmentation
Pigmentation presents in many forms such as freckles, sun or age spots and melasma. It often arises from ageing, sun exposure, hormones and trauma to the skin.
Options that may be considered after assessment:
- Laser treatment that targets specific pigmented lesions when clinically appropriate.
- Jessner peel or other chemical peels selected for your skin type and pigment pattern.
- Advanced microdermabrasion as part of a broader plan where suitable.
Pigmentation concerns vary in depth and cause. A consultation with a registered health professional is required to confirm the type of pigmentation, discuss expected benefits and limits of treatment, and consider alternatives. Sun protection with daily broad spectrum SPF 50+, protective clothing and shade seeking is important before, during and after any treatment. Outcomes differ between individuals and more than one session is often required for best results. Melasma may require a different approach from sun spots or freckles, and maintenance is commonly needed.
Risks and Recovery
All procedures carry risk and are not suitable for everyone. Your practitioner will take a medical history, assess skin type and pigmentation pattern, and provide personalised guidance before any treatment is offered.
- Common temporary effects: redness, warmth, mild swelling, tingling, tightness and temporary darkening or flaking of treated pigment.
- Less common risks: irritation, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, blistering, infection, prolonged redness, scarring in rare cases, and incomplete clearance or recurrence of pigment.
- Photosensitivity: many treatments and active ingredients increase sun sensitivity. Daily SPF 50+, hats and avoidance of direct sun are essential.
- Course and maintenance: multiple sessions may be recommended. Maintenance with topical agents and strict sun protection is often advised to help reduce recurrence.
- Precautions: recent tanning, photosensitising medicines, pregnancy, active skin disease or certain medical conditions may affect timing or suitability. Please disclose all medical conditions and medicines.
- Aftercare: follow the instructions provided by your practitioner, use gentle skincare while the skin settles, and avoid picking or scratching.
The information above is general and does not replace personalised medical advice. A face to face or telehealth consultation with an appropriately qualified and registered health professional is required before any treatment can be provided.