Birthmarks & Pigmentation Treatments in Canterbury, Kent

Removal of Pigmented Lesions/Photorejuvenation

There are many different types of laser, IPL systems available on the market. In general, most of these systems can reduce the appearance of some pigmented lesions and small thread veins on the face. Claims for improvement in the appearance of actual wrinkles, any tightening of the skin, or reduction in the appearance of acne scars should be carefully questioned. The term "Photorejuvenation" used to market these light based treatments can be misleading and confusing. Laser resurfacing for fine lines and acne scars however, involves a completely different laser used to smooth out the skin surface.

Pigmented lesions are brown marks on the skin, e.g. age spots or liver spots on hands and face. Although they are not harmful, many people wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.

What are lasers and IPLs and how do they work?

Lasers

A laser is a high energy beam of light that can precisely transfer this energy into certain tissues within the skin. These beams of light are produced in one wavelength at a time, and can vary in terms of their strength and the type of tissue that they can target.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light systems differ from lasers in that they can deliver hundreds of wavelengths (or colours) in each burst of light. Certain filters are used to filter out the unwanted wavelengths, so that they work in a similar way to lasers causing heat damage to the particular skin problem.

The process of directing a laser or IPL source to a target area in the skin is technically known as "selective photothermolysis".

The appropriate use of either lasers or IPL will be assessed at the consultation.

Can a pigmented lesion be removed in one treatment session?

There are certain lesions that can be treated in just one session, and these include the so-called liver or age spots, benign lentigo and freckles. However, for lesions with deeper lying pigment, multiple treatment sessions may be necessary e.g. pigmented birthmarks, such as café-au-lait spots.

How often are treatments carried out?

Laser treatments are usually scheduled at 6 week intervals, but often just one session is sufficient, depending on your individual response. IPL treatments may be repeated every 3-4 weeks for a course of 4 sessions.

What is the treatment like?

You may experience a warm, stinging sensation in the area treated during the procedure. The treatment usually takes between 15 to 30 minutes.

Are there any side effects of the treatment?

Immediately after treatment, the treated area becomes darker, crusts and peels off over 1 to 2 weeks, leaving a pinkish area of new skin lasting several more weeks. Significant fading can continue for up to 6 months after treatment in some cases.

Maintaining the results

We recommend daily use of a broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30, and to apply an antioxidant such as the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic or Phloretin serums as the most effective way to protect the skin from future sun damage (photodamage). SkinCeuticals provides effective skincare solutions through dermatologists, plastic surgeons, medi-spas, and other skincare professionals. It provides a complete range of products scientifically proven to benefit your skin. The full range of skin care products is available at the Canterbury Skin and Laser Clinic.

How much does it cost?

Initial consultation:

With Dr Mark Hudson-Peacock, Consultant Dermatologist £195

With Dr Alice Hudson-Peacock, Specialty Doctor in Dermatology, including patch test £100

Treatment price guide for laser: hands or face: £150 per session

hands & face, or, hands & forearms: £250 per session

For IPL: face for example £300 per session £1000 for a series of 4.

If you would like to find out more about the birthmark and pigmentation treatments we offer contact our friendly team NOW on 01227 472288