Pico lasers, such as PicoSure and Pico Care 450, are considered the optimal laser treatment for skin types with darker pigmentation because they diminish heat damage and lower the chances of hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation, often a concern for those with dark skin, can be treated with targeted laser therapies. The beams penetrate the skin, breaking down excess melanin and promoting a more even skin tone. Laser treatments offer a non-invasive solution to combat hyperpigmentation without the risk of scarring.
IPL breaks down excess pigments, fades dark spots, and stimulates collagen for improved texture. While Fraxel targets deep wrinkles and scars, IPL is a suitable choice for sun damage and pigmentation problems. Consulting with a dermatologist is crucial for personalized advice based on individual needs.
Lasers are generally considered the best way to remove pigmentation from the face permanently, particularly in more severe cases.
How many laser therapy for hyperpigmentation sessions? For optimal results, most patients will require 3-4 sessions (approximately 1 session per month) and will notice significant improvement after each treatment. In some circumstances, more than 4 sessions may be needed.
For pigmentation, specific peels, such as those containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and trichloroacetic acid (TCA), have shown remarkable efficacy. With repeated sessions, chemical peels can noticeably reduce the appearance of pigmentation, unveiling a brighter, more youthful complexion.
IPL session prices can vary widely, from about $200 to $1200 per session. This broad range is due to factors such as the size of the treatment area and the specific skin concerns being addressed. For example, a full-face treatment might cost more than targeting a smaller area like the hands or neck.
Fractora and Morpheus 8 combine RF waves with microneedling technique for even better results. Unlike Fraxel laser, Fractora and Morpheus 8 can be used on all skin types safely – on light and darker tones up to skin type VI with no risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
In the first few days following your laser treatment, you may notice that the pigmentation appears darker than before. This is caused by the treated pigment rising to the skin's surface as it breaks down, signalling the start of the healing process.
For those with darker skin, newer 1064-nanometer Nd:YAG lasers, like Cutera Excel HR 1064 and Sciton Joule 1064, are good alternatives to older pigment-targeting lasers. They still target melanin but zero in on the hair follicle rather than the skin surface above.
Nd: YAG Laser:
This versatile laser is effective in treating various skin conditions, including hyperpigmentation.
Hybrid Fractional Lasers: The Best of Both Worlds
The HFL uses ablative and non-ablative wavelengths in addressing pigmentation but rejuvenates the skin. With the new devices, such as the Halo Pro Hybrid Laser, the dermatologist will be able to set the device based on personal issues of the skin.
Fraxel Laser resurfaces the skin to reduce wrinkles, acne, scarring, pigmentation and improve skin quality and texture on the face and body.
IPL treatments are typically not as effective as lasers. IPL handpieces have a larger surface area than most lasers, making them more efficient to treat a broader area of skin. More IPL treatments are needed than laser treatments. IPL treatments tend to be more affordable than laser treatments.
Since IPL is not considered a medical necessity, it is unlikely that it will be covered by insurance. Review your insurance policy, contact your insurance provider, or reach out to your optometrist to find out if IPL can be covered under your plan.
How Often Should I Receive IPL Treatment? The number of treatment sessions and skin concerns can also dictate the frequency and timing of treatment. Most patients are recommended to undergo at least three sessions of IPL therapy scheduled at four-week intervals.
PicoSure Pro is a powerful laser that delivers 755nm energy in picoseconds for treatment of pigmentation and skin revitalization. As the latest revolution in pico-second technology, it removes unwanted pigment, wrinkles, acne scars, pores and tattoos with a much higher success rate compared to traditional lasers.
The energy from the laser blasts away pigment in the skin, making it temporarily look more even-toned. However, the bad news is that the inflammation triggered by the heat and light from the laser stimulate the skin cells that produce melanin to turn back on — in fact, they turn on even more strongly than before.
Pico lasers, such as PicoSure and Pico Care 450, are considered the optimal laser treatment for skin types with darker pigmentation because they diminish heat damage and lower the chances of hyperpigmentation.
“Treatments containing ingredients like vitamin C, licorice root, and kojic acid help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of skin-darkening melanin," says Ni'Kita Wilson, a cosmetic chemist in New York City.
Can pigmentation be 100% removed? Not all pigmentation can be removed completely – certain superficial ones can be completely removed, but others, such as melasma or other dermal pigmentation usually gets reduced by 70-90%.