Pigment-Specific Laser

Many people want the tan that comes from time spent in the sun. However, you probably don’t want the brown spots and sun damage on your skin. Sun exposure is a common culprit behind hyperpigmentation, such as dark spots, freckles, and uneven skin tone. Even those who limit sun exposure and wear sunscreen may still struggle with other pigmentation issues, like birthmarks. Patients with these unwanted spots and signs of sun damage may benefit from pigment-specific laser treatments.

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What is it?

Pigment-specific lasers target pigment in the skin, such as sunspots, freckles, or brown birthmarks. They can also be used to remove unwanted tattoos.

Benefits

  • Easy lunch break procedure
  • Little to no downtime
  • Customizable

Results

  • Improvements in 1-2 weeks
  • Full results in several weeks
  • Clearer, brighter complexion

Discover the Results of Pigment-Specific Laser

*Individual results may vary.

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Learn More About Pigment-Specific Laser

Pigment-specific lasers use laser energy to target unwanted pigment in the skin, breaking it down. Pigmented lesions like freckles, sunspots, and certain brown birthmarks can be treated with various pigment-specific lasers and light-based devices. These are also the lasers that are used to lighten unwanted tattoos. Capital Laser & Skin Care strives to offer the most effective treatments with advanced technology. We have multiple lasers and light-based therapies for unwanted tattoos and pigmentation concerns.

Since freckles and sunspots may be seen with fine lines and wrinkles, we often perform pigment-specific laser treatments combined with other treatments to improve the look of sun-damaged skin. For example, they often pair well with BroadBand Light treatments like BBL® HERO™ or Forever Young BBL™. However, it is important to evaluate the skin before treatment and accurately diagnose the specific type of brown spot, whether it be a freckle, sunspot, or mole. The type of pigmentation will determine our best treatment option.

One of our board-certified dermatologists at Capital Laser & Skin Care will thoroughly evaluate your pigmented spots to determine the appropriate treatment. Lightening sunspots and reversing sun damage can make your skin more radiant, youthful, and even-toned.

The exact procedure may vary since your dermatologist can use multiple light or laser devices to reduce unwanted pigment. Treatment of pigmented spots usually takes just a few minutes to perform. If necessary, we may apply a topical numbing cream beforehand to minimize discomfort. Your dermatologist will then use the pigment-specific laser to deliver energy to the skin. The targeted pigment will absorb this heat and break down, allowing your body to filter it out. In the case of unwanted tattoos, the ink particles are broken down.

Most patients feel a light, snapping sensation during treatment but no pain. Pigment-specific laser treatments are often an easy “lunch break procedure,” involving little to no discomfort and taking less than an hour.

After the laser energy breaks down the targeted pigment, your body will naturally remove it. Patients often see improvements within a week or two, but full results develop gradually over several weeks. Many patients require more than one treatment for the best results. This depends on the condition being treated, the exact treatment used, and the patient’s unique skin.

It’s crucial to protect your skin from further sun damage by using broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF30 and minimizing sun exposure to maintain your brighter, clearer skin after pigment-specific laser treatments. For some conditions and treatments, we may also recommend occasional maintenance treatments.

Most laser treatments for pigment issues have minimal side effects and require little to no downtime. In some cases, patients may take a few days of “social downtime” due to redness or flaking. Your dermatologist will discuss what to expect for your personalized treatment.

Immediately after treatment, the spots are red and resemble bug bites for approximately one day. Then, the treated spots turn darker and flake off between three to five days after treatment. Makeup can be applied over the treated areas, allowing you to get back to your routine as soon as possible.

Most people with pigmentation issues like dark spots, freckles, or birthmarks are good candidates for a pigment-specific laser treatment. Your Capital Laser & Skin Care dermatologist will create a customized treatment plan for your needs, goals, and skin type. Since the laser targets pigment, this treatment may not be ideal for patients with darker skin tones.

Patients with skin texture concerns, acne scars, or wrinkles may be better suited to alternative treatments like RF microneedling or chemical peels. Your dermatologist will help you find the best treatment option during a detailed consultation.

Take the First Step

Interested in learning more about our pigment-specific lasers? We would love to speak with you. Please fill out the form on this page to request a consultation or call our Chevy Chase, MD office today at (301) 798-9699 to schedule your private consultation at our laser and cosmetic dermatology center, located just blocks away from Washington, D.C.

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