Our skin color depends
on the activation of melanocytes. These are cells which produce pigment
in the hair and skin. A tan is the skin’s attempt to protect itself
from further damage. Sometimes as a result of sun exposure, age,
pregnancy or other certain medications, we develop undesirable brown
spots or uneven pigmentation called hyperpigmentation.
HOW
DOES IT WORK?
A special wavelength of
light is used that is attracted to areas of the skin that have too much
brown color. The laser heats these spots up so quickly that they are
damaged.
WHAT
TYPE OF SPOTS CAN BE REMOVED?
The Candela Gentlelase
will target any area of the skin with excessive pigment. Freckles, age
spots, chloasma (pregnancy mask) and sun damage can be safely removed.
Both small spots like freckles and large areas such as the upper chest
and neck can be treated.
DOES
IT HURT?
Most people describe
the sensation as a snap of a rubber band. The sensation does not
continue after the treatment is over. The physician can prescribe a
numbing medicine if necessary.
AFTER
TREATMENT.........
The spots will turn
slightly darker, this is normal. The area may be red for an hour. Over
the next 3-4 weeks, the spots will just flake off.
WILL
THEY COME BACK?
The best way to assure
that the brown spots do not return or darken again is to avoid sun
exposure and wear a sun block on a daily basis. Use of a
bleaching cream each night will usually prevent re-appearance of brown
spots. If your spots are caused by birth control pills or hormone use,
it may return.
