Spot Off!

Put simply, it is a build-up of melanocytes (cells containing melanin, a.k.a. pigment) under the skin. These dark marks range from freckles, sunspots, age spots to melasma and can occur on the face or body at any age.

The most common cause is the sun, which is why in NZ it is so prevalent and why pigmentation generally increases with age – curse that ozone! Really simply, sunlight and UV rays cause the body to produce too much melanin. Other environmental factors, hormonal changes and some medications also contribute to pigmentation changes. Hyperpigmentation is the most common (dark marks), however there is also the occurrence of hypopigmentation (light marks).

• Age spots

• Freckles

• Hyperpigmentation

• Sun damage

• Brown patches (flat birthmarks)

Laser light is attracted to pigment (melanin). The light is absorbed by the targeted pigmentation and is converted to heat which then shatters the pigment, while the surrounding tissue remains unaffected. The great news is laser is absorbed by only the cells containing excessive concentrations of pigment. The pigment is then drawn to the surface of the skin without harming surrounding tissue. Once at the surface, the pigment will fade or dry and flake off the area, revealing the more even toned skin underneath.

We use the Candela Gentle Max Pro Class 4 Medical Grade Alexandrite 755nm laser to effectively remove pigmentation in as little as 1 – 3 treatments. The Gentle Max Pro is the most advanced, FDA & TGA approved laser in the world for providing safe and effective treatments. And the best bit - it is lightening quick, non-invasive and with minimal downtime and as comfortable as it can get.

This can vary from client to client and also depend on the type of pigment we treat. Whilst the results of the treatment are exceptional, it is important to remember that pigmentation is caused by environmental exposure, hormones and some medications. As such there are chances without the right management it can reappear. Understandably as sun exposure is a major cause of pigmentation you will need to protect the area being treated with a minimum SPF 30+. This will help you get and keep the best results from your treatments.

No. Melasma is a different kettle of fish so to speak, with complexity in its cause, type and variables that impact the best type of treatment. For that reason we stick to what we know we can safely and effectively treat and that is pigmentation.

We treat skin types from a Fitzpatrick 1- 3. This is because the contrast between the pigmentation and the surrounding tissue is higher. This means pigmentation can be safely targeted and treated without damaging the surrounding area.

We recommend between 1-3 sessions to get the best results. During the consultation we will assess the area and the type of pigmentation you would like treated. We can then give you a better understanding of how many treatments may be needed.

As with laser hair removal and waxing, some areas are more sensitive than others. With pigmentation removal, the pulses will feel like a lightening quick hot sensation (some say similar to that of an elastic band flicking on the skin) that we immediately cool down with cool packs once each smaller area is complete. It is a quick sensation, for most people it is not too uncomfortable and the best news is that it is over quickly as well! We have some secret techniques to keep it as cool and comfortable as possible for you 😉.

Prior to the treatment, no sun exposure for as long as possible before the treatment is ideal, but at least a minimum of 2 weeks. A minimum of SPF 30+ sunscreen should be worn on the areas at all time. After treatment you can expect heat in your skin – this is easily treated with a cool pack and aloe vera which we apply for you after the treatment. Staying out of the sun and heat is a critical component to success. SPF 30+ should be worn at all times and we recommend treating during autumn/winter months.