Age Spots, Sun Spots and Hyperpigmentation

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Age Spots, Sun Spots and Hyperpigmentation - Everything you need to Know

Age spots, Sun Spots, dark spots, liver spots; whatever you want to call them they can prove to be a nuisance, appearing suddenly on day or gradually over time. Funny Enough Liver spots aren’t an accurate name for them because they are not caused by liver problems as it was once believed.

Please note that a consultation is required. Same day treatment is not available for Sun spots/Age Spots and hyperpigmentation. A $50.00 consult fee will apply if you decide not to proceed with treatment. The fee is waived if you book your treatment. Online virtual consultations are available

What are age spots and sun spots?

Age spots and sun spots appear flat and dark in color. The edges can be smooth or uneven.
Prolonged sun exposure can contribute to the production of these spots. Also known as Lentigo
(like lentils) because of their appearance in color. Learn more here about
Lentigo: https://www.healthline.com/health/lentigo

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation describes the condition of the skin that becomes affected by dark flesh. There are a few types of hyperpigmentation including Melasma, sun spots and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Melasma is caused by hormone imbalances usually after pregnancy. Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is the result of trauma to the tissue, and sunspots are a direct result from the sun's harmful UV rays.

What are the causes for age spots, sun spots and pigmentation?

While there are many causes that contribute to the dark patches that plague our skin, some of the main reasons can included:

- Prolonged sun exposure
- Tanning
- Melasma

How do you treat sun spots and age spots and hyperpigmentation?

Using Intense Light Therapy (IPL) and Dynamic Pulse Control (DPC) technology I am able to target the selected tissue and eliminate or lighten the dark lesions.

I have hyperpigmentation. Can your treatments help with that?

Yes, in fact treatments are very successful for hyperpigmentation. You will need multiple treatments to achieve best results. Book in for a consultation so we can assess your individual needs and form a treatment plan that is most suitable for you.

What skin conditions can you treat with IPL and DPC technology?

- Melasma
- Sun Spots/Age Spots/ Lentigo
- Dyschromia
- Hyperpigmentation

Is the treatment painful?

Clients usually report feeling an elastic band like pinch.

How many treatments will I need and how often?

Treatments vary from person to person. Typically you can expect 4-6 treatments for best results, but depending on the area and size more treatments may be required, spaced apart every 2-4weeks.

What type of machine do you use to remove age spots, sun spots and pigmentation?

I use a Sharplight laser machine with integrated IPL (Intense light therapy) and DPC (Dynamic Pulse Control ), this dual therapy allows for a more selective and effective treatment. The handpiece itself cools down to -8° ensuring a comfortable experience, and preventing damage to surrounding tissue.

How long does each treatment take to complete?

Depending on the size and area of the treatment, time can vary. Typically though you can expect to be with us for about 15-30 minutes.

Is there any downtime?

No! There is zero down time required after your appointment, although the tissue can scab after treatment, usually occurring 24-48 hours after treatment, before eventually sloughing off the pigmentation in the treated area.

Is it normal if the treated area darkens after the treatment?

YES! That is completely normal and expected. This is a temporary reaction and will subside.

Are there any risks or complications?

Erythema (redness), and edema (swelling) can occur, this is typical of the treatment and normal. Like every treatment, they are not without their risks, although rare, scarring can occur from the treatment. Darkening or lightening of the skin may occur. Scabs in the treated area are normal as the tissue Heals after treatment, sloughing off the pigmentation in the process.

Appointment Preparation:

1. Discontinue Accutane 6 months prior to treatment
2. Discontinue use of Retinoic Acid products 2 weeks to treatment
3. Avoid sun exposure or the use of tanning beds and self-tanners for at least four to 1. eight weeks, prior and/or between IPL treatments (dependent on skin type)
4. Report all skin diseases, viruses, infections, cold sores, eczema or allergies
5.. Do not exfoliate, use glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide or any other skin irritants for one week prior to treatment
6. Discontinue using bleaching creams for 2 weeks prior to treatment and perfumed products (eg. Aromatherapy oils/Essential oils) for 48 hours before treatment
7. Avoid Microdermabrasion or peels for two weeks prior to treatment
8. If the skin is red, irritated or sunburned, the IPL treatment must be rescheduled.
9. Report all medication taken within 2 weeks of the treatment
10. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours prior to the clinical treatment.
11. Avoid swimming in strong chlorinated water immediately before an IPL treatment

Aftercare :

1. Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds or self-tanners for at least 2-3 weeks after a treatment. Apply Sun
Protective Cream of SPF 50+, 15 minutes prior to sun exposure
2. and 15 minutes afterwards. Keep reapplying as needed throughout the day.
3. Consider using protective cotton gloves for driving, or a hat to protect facial areas
If there are scabs or blisters, make-up should not be used for 3-4 days
4. For at least two weeks post Skin Rejuvenation/Vascular/Pigmentation treatment, do not use: harsh
topical exfoliators, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, acne creams etc.
5. Avoid touching, rubbing, peeling or picking of the skin, as this may cause hyper/hypo-pigmentation,
scaring or infection.
6.. Gently apply pure Aloe Vera gel or antibiotic ointment, to the treated area twice
7. daily until healed and dry 5. For 1 week, avoid hot baths, showers, hot tubs and saunas. When
showering and washing, gently pat dry and do not rub
8.. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 – 48 hours following clinical treatment.
9.. Avoid strong chlorinated water for 24 hours post IPL treatment.
HOT AND HUMID WEATHER CONDITIONS CAN AGGRAVATE SKIN IN THE PERIOD IMMEDIATELY BEFORE AND AFTER TREATMENT.

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