How To Prepare For Laser Hyperpigmentation Treatment

When it comes to reducing hyperpigmentation and evening-out skin tone, there are fewer solutions more effective than laser treatment. However, to ensure the process is safe, comfortable, and successful, patients should understand how to prepare their skin accordingly, including what to do and what not to do before laser hyperpigmentation treatment. At Brentwood Skin Clinic in Nashville, TN, board-certified physician Dr. Austin Mitchell is committed to helping patients achieve their ideal complexion with the most current and effective technologies available today, including laser skin resurfacing and hyperpigmentation treatment. In this blog, you’ll find useful information on preparing for your laser hyperpigmentation appointment and what to expect during and after treatment.

What causes dark patches on the skin?

Hyperpigmentation, which can be characterized by dark spots, patches, and other areas of increased pigment, can be caused by a number of factors. Some of the most common causes of hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone include:

• Hormonal changes
• Sun exposure
• Certain medications
• Underlying condition
• Pregnancy

How can I get rid of melasma?

Melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation can be greatly improved with the use of laser resurfacing and laser hyperpigmentation treatments. These cutting-edge treatments utilize targeted laser energy to bring pigmented cells to the skin’s surface, and slough away damaged layers of skin, allowing new, healthy skin cells to be generated. With laser skin treatments, patients can achieve smoother, clearer, more even-toned skin.

What should I do before laser hyperpigmentation treatment?

Appropriate preparation is critical for safe and effective laser hyperpigmentation treatment. Pre-treatment instructions for laser hyperpigmentation procedures may include:

• Avoid sun exposure
• Do not use tanning beds
• Do not wax or thread
• Discontinue use of harsh topical products, including prescription serums, creams, and steroids
• Discontinue use of acid-based products
• Do not receive cosmetic injectables

During your initial consultation for laser melasma treatment in Nashville, TN, our knowledgeable team will thoroughly assess your skin and discuss how to best prepare your skin prior to the procedure, including when to discontinue using certain products, why, and how long.

What should I do after laser hyperpigmentation treatment?

Following your laser hyperpigmentation treatment session, you may experience mild redness, irritation, and peeling. These side effects are an expected part of the healing process and should resolve within a few days or weeks. During this time, it is imperative that patients avoid sun exposure, use sunscreen, and keep their skin moisturized. Patients should also refrain from using harsh products, including acid-based products and exfoliants. Finally, patients should take great care not to scratch or pick their peeling skin, as this can delay the healing process and, in some cases, lead to scarring. Patients should also keep in mind that it can take up to 6 – 8 weeks for the results of laser hyperpigmentation treatment to develop. Fortunately, the pigmented areas that were removed will not return, though new areas of hyperpigmentation can develop in the future as a result of aging, sun exposure, or further hormonal changes. Should this occur, a repeat treatment can help to restore the patient’s ideal complexion.

Tired of trying to conceal freckles and dark spots? Consider laser hyperpigmentation treatment in Nashville, TN

If you are self-conscious about melasma, sun damage, freckles, or uneven skin tone, you may be a candidate for laser hyperpigmentation treatment. To learn more about the exciting results that may be possible for you with this cutting-edge technology, call Brentwood Skin Clinic to schedule your one-on-one consultation with award-winning medical board-certified physician Dr. Austin Mitchell today.