Laser Treatments available
Laser Genesis
Laser Genesis is a non-invasive laser treatment renowned for its ability to gently heat the skin's upper layer. The underlying mechanism stimulates collagen production, making it effective for a range of skin concerns, including wrinkles, large pores, and uneven tone.
Picosure Pro
PicoSure Pro is an advanced laser technology which is considered groundbreaking in dermatology and aesthetic medicine. Unlike traditional lasers that rely on heat to break down pigments or skin cells, PicoSure Pro utilises ultra-short pulses, measured in picoseconds, to create a photomechanical impact. This shatters the target cells or pigments into tiny particles that are naturally eliminated by the body. PicoSure Pro is renowned for its effectiveness in tattoo removal, scar reduction, and treating various skin conditions like hyperpigmentation. It offers the advantage of quicker treatments and shorter recovery times compared to traditional laser technologies. It is FDA approved to treat melasma pigment.
Picosure ProAt a Glance
EXPECTED RESULTS
Reduction in appearance of hyperpigmentation
TREATMENT TIME
Up to 30 minutes
DOWNTIME
Minimal to none
LONGEVITY
ongoing (if aftercare instructions are adhered to)
ANAESTHESIA
None required
RECOVERY
Immediate
REQUIRED
Varies (at least 3 recommended)
QUICKLY
Fast Treatment
COST
From £99
AFTERCARE
No additional treatments for at least 2 weeks
Skin pigmentation (hyperpigmentation) is a condition where the skin is darker, this can occur in small patches or cover much larger areas of the body. These include freckles, birth marks, sun damage, age spots, dark patches, skin hyperpigmentation, sun spots and melasma.
As a state-of-the-art aesthetic clinic, we can help to treat pigmentation on your body, face, back, neck & other areas, using the latest laser technologies & platforms/
Get rid of unwanted pigmentation including freckles, age spots & skin discolouration. We offer a variety of treatments tailored to each individual skin type, as well as to individual types of hyperpigmentation.
Skin pigmentation (hyperpigmentation) is a condition where the skin is darker, this can occur in small patches or cover much larger areas of the body.
We offer a variety of treatments tailored to each individual skin type, as well as to individual types of hyperpigmentation.
BOOK FREE CONSULTATION
Book your Free, No-Obligation Consultation or Skin Analysis
What causes skin pigmentation?
How does skin pigmentation occur?
The upper layers of the skin contain pigment cells called melanocytes. They produce pigment called melanin that is then distributed evenly throughout the epidermis to give the natural colouration of the skin. In response to trauma, inflammation, sun exposure, hormones and as a result of genetics, pigment can be over-produced and form ‘clumps’ that look like areas of darker discolouration or ‘hyperpigmentation’. There are a number of different types of hyperpigmentation; common types include: freckles, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, sun damage and melasma.
Some common causes of pigmentation include:
• Sun Exposure
• Acne Spots and Blemishes
• Folliculitis
• Ingrown Hairs
• Childhood Scars
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Dermatitis
• Fungal Infections
• Rashes
• Waxing
• Insect Bites
• Scars
• Stretch Marks
• Tribal Marks on face & body
• Skin Inflammation
• Hydroquinone & Harsh Products
How does laser pigmentation treatment work?
The pigmented lesion or dark spot(s) are exposed to short pulses of laser, thus resulting in the concentrated area of pigment (melanin) to break down. The pigment is then absorbed by the body. Alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser light is used to safely target and destroy areas of excess pigment in the skin, resulting in a clear reduction in hyperpigmentation. Our flagship treatment for all skin types is Pico genesis, with Alexandrite laser also used on certain patients who have lighter skin types. Pico genesis is effective in the removal of all forms of hyperpigmentation, including Melasma & post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Pico genesis in action
video
STEPS
Treatment Step by Step
Complimentary consultation & patch test
Your journey begins with a complementary consultation & patch test. This will be a great opportunity to discuss the treatment with your provider, as well as finding out more about realistic results you can expect, possible side-effects & downtime associated with treatment- the aim being to offer you as much information as possible so that you can make an informed decision.
The patch test will involve test patches directly on or near to the desired treatment area. This usually involves a few test shots of laser energy to test for any adverse reaction, as well as to test for pain or discomfort. This is a safety procedure which is always carried out for laser treatments.
Pre-care instructions given
We will provide you with pre-care instructions (this is usually done via email as well as verbally) to ensure you are suitable for treatment on the day. This includes, but is not limited to, discontinuing retinoids & exfoliants at least 5 days before treatment, as well as not having any other treatments on the area being treated for a minimum of 2 weeks prior.
Treatment
Your treatment will be carried out with your comfort & safety firmly in mind. Advanced air-cooling will be used to minimise discomfort and typically an aloe Vera gel & mineral sunscreen SPF50 are applied by your practitioner immediately post-treatment.
Aftercare
Aftercare instructions will be verbally given by your practitioner, as well as being sent to you via email. Hand copies can be requested too if this is preferable for you.
Skin Cosmetics London prides itself on its excellent aftercare, so do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns, we actively encourage this.
Follow-up appointment
We usually recommend coming in for a follow-up appointment 2 weeks after treatment. This allows us to compare before & after pictures as well as visually assess & discuss results. Based on this, the practitioner can make modifications if needed. It is not uncommon for the first laser treatment to use lower settings to ensure safety. Subsequent sittings can use higher settings within the clinical range to provide more impressive results. Patient safety is always prioritised over treatment efficacy.
Next treatment
Hyperpigmentation varies in its depth, intensity & underlying cause. We always recommend at least 3 treatment (as a bare minimum) but may even recommend more treatments depending on a number of factors, including but not limited to, if the pigmentation is dermal as opposed to epidermal, Melasma, patient skin type, patient skin sensitivity to treatment.
Please see below for some frequently asked questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during laser treatment for hyperpigmentation?
Once we have assessed how your skin has reacted to the patch test, we will complete the necessary consent forms and then clean your skin prior to treatment. It is advised not to wear makeup on the day of treatment, however we can also clear your makeup off. Protective goggles are given to wear and carry out the treatment according to the settings we identified during your patch-test.
What happens after laser treatment for hyperpigmentation?
After the treatment we will cool the skin and apply aftercare serums to promote skin healing and SPF50 to protect the skin. The skin may feel slightly hot, like a sunburn, after treatment. Any pigmentation may initially become darker in colour and then peel off. This depends on the laser used. Pico genesis generally provides less side-effects if it is chosen for treatment. This process can take up to 5 days to complete. We recommend simple moisturisers and sunblock SPF50 after treatment.
It also helps to improve the tone and all the features of your face such as your eyes, cheeks, mouth, chin and skin also making it a viable alternative to Botox, with the benefit of being able to maintain facial expression. Excellent for post surgical face lift to maintain the lift and treat blood stasis, scarring, and numbness.
HIFU can also be used to tighten and tone other parts of the body.
How shall I prepare for treatment?
We recommend that you pause any treatments like retinol & exfoliants for 5-7 days prior treatment, as they make the skin more sensitive to light. As well as this, you may need to wait a certain period of time if you are on specific antibiotics treatments (this is dependant on duration of therapy). We recommend that you do not tan for at least 4 weeks prior to and for at least 6 weeks after this treatment. We cannot perform laser pigmentation treatment if you are pregnant.
What are the aftercare instructions?
-The application of a cool pack during the first few hours after treatment will reduce any discomfort
-The application of aloe vera gel can continue at home
-Makeup may be used immediately after the treatment unless there is epidermal blistering. (Preferably mineral make up)
A-void sun exposure to reduce the chance of hyperpigmentation or darker pigmentation
-Use sunscreen SPF 50 at all times
-Avoid picking or scratching the treated skin
-Avoid hot baths and heat treatments including exercise for the first 24 hours
– Avoid exfoliants & retinoids for 1 week after treatment.
Are there any side-effects or downtime associated with this treatment?
There is some redness, slight swelling and skin sensitivity (like a mild sunburn) for 1-3 days after laser treatment. Your pigmentation will initially turn darker and then flake off over 5-7 days (this is less if Pico genesis is used (as opposed to Alexandrite 755nm laser). These side-effects are generally mild and most people will be able to continue with normal daily routines.
How long do results last?
In theory, the results from laser treatment are permanent. However, due to sun exposure or other factors, pigmentation may come back again. You may need to do further laser sessions in future years.
How often can I have this treatment?
Whilst this varies from patient to patient, generally speaking there should be a gap of 4-8 weeks for Alexandrite laser, with 2-4 weeks for Pico Genesis. This is discussed and judged with your practitioner and also depends on your skin type & type of hyperpigmentation.