03 Feb Treating Sunspots & Pigmentation With Fraxel Laser
Pigmentation, freckles and age spots have become a common skin concern for Australians of all ages, skin type and gender. Our outdoor lifestyle and beautiful weather in Brisbane does have an impact. A couple of freckles across the cheek and nose can be harmless and ‘cute’, but when they begin to darken and grow it may be time to look at treating sunspots and pigmentation.
What are freckles, age spots and hyper-pigmentation?
The term pigmentation simply refers to spots or patches that develop on the skin, having a darker appearance than the surrounding areas of the skin. An increase in melanin, which is the natural pigment that gives us colour in our hair, eyes and skin causes these darker spots. There are many factors that can trigger a large increase in melanin production, the most common being sun exposure, hormones and age.
What causes hyper-pigmentation, freckles and age spots?
Throughout the greater Brisbane area, we love to enjoy the warm sun on our beautiful beaches. In an attempt to protect us from the harsh UV rays, our skin produces melanin. Melanin aims to protect our DNA from UV damage. Melanin is the reason we tan after being in the sun and why repeated long term exposure often causes pigmentation and freckles. However, sun exposure is not the sole source of pigmentation. Hormonal fluctuations are also a major cause of pigmentation and is very common during pregnancy or when taking the contraceptive pill. Age is also a factor that plays a part in skin pigmentation. As we age, our natural collagen production and skin elasticity begins to break down. This causes skin to become thinner and therefore much more susceptible to all signs of UV damage, including pigmentation. Ageing also results in “age spots” growing on our skin.
What are the different types of pigmentation?
Photoaging
Often referred to as sunspots, damage to skin causes spots, dark patches and uneven skin tone most commonly seen on areas of the face, chest, shoulders and arms. As a direct result of years of daily sun exposure, people with fairer skin types already show signs of photoaging in their 30’s and 40’s.
Melasma
Melasma usually develops as large patches of pigmentation appearing in a symmetrical pattern on the chin, upper lip, cheeks and forehead during pregnancy. Such pigmentation is caused by fluctuations in hormone levels and can also be triggered by other means such as contraceptive pills. Melasma is notoriously challenging to treat and can be aggravated with sun exposure, heat and inflammation. It is also known to recur very easily.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Ever had an acne breakout only to discover a brown spot left behind after your pimple has entirely disappeared? This is what we refer to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and can form after any injury to the skin including trauma or burns. Although these small spots of pigmentation eventually fade for most, some are left with these brown spots which often give the appearance of acne, even when it’s controlled.
What are my options for treating sunspots, pigmentation, freckles and age spots?
In today’s market you will find an array of ointments and creams that claim to make your pigmentation and damage disappear. These treatments may assist, but nothing quite compares to the amazing power of Fraxel Laser. Fraxel Laser essentially takes your skin concerns and “peels” them away to reveal a layer of beautiful, glowing and healthy skin. Fraxel has gained the reputation for being the laser treatment of choice with rapid results, less downtime and improved cosmetic outcomes compared to creams, chemical peels, cautery, cryotherapy and surgery.
How does Fraxel Laser work for treating sunspots?
Microscopic columns of laser energy are created through fractional technology, penetrating a portion of the skin. Water molecules in the skin absorb this laser energy, producing small areas of thermal coagulation called microscopic thermal zones. This stimulates your own natural healing process, replacing old and damaged cells, scars and collagen with remodeled “younger” collagen and healthy cells.
Where can I get pigmentation, freckle and age spot treatment in Brisbane?
Elysium Skin Centre is one of only three clinics to use the authentic Fraxel Laser in all of Brisbane. Elysium Skin Centre is located opposite the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, just a short drive from the Brisbane CBD. Book a consultation today to discuss the best course of action for treating your pigmentation, freckles and age spots.
