Whilst skin pigmentation isn’t problematic for your health the simple fact remains that some people do not like the appearance of sun spots. Exposure to the sun accelerates the ageing process and can cause irregular pigmentation that shows as freckles (ephelides) or sun spots (solar lentigines).
Our new AW3® ND Yag Laser system is clinically proven treatment for sun-damaged skin, covering both skin rejuvenation and pigmented aspects.
The AW3® treatment works by directing well-controlled pulses of light into the upper skin layer. The light is absorbed by two of the body’s own natural chemicals—melanin in the pigmented areas and haemoglobin in the red blood.
Both these pigments convert the light energy into heat. This heat is used to destroy the parts of the cells in which the melanin is stored.
The visible light produced by the AW3® systems are carefully controlled to produce the correct pulse length and right amount of energy to destroy the targets and minimising the risk of damaging skin tissues.
Is it suitable for all skin tones?
The skin rejuvenation is based on light absorption in melanin and haemoglobin, therefore treatments are more effective on light skin that is not sun tanned at the time of treatment. However, AW3® systems have pre-programmed settings for each treatment, so all skin tones can ensure they will receive the correct energy output for their complexion.
Age spots contain a substance called melanin. When cells contain lots of this substance, they are condensed together, this is where the AW3® light will target the area to rejuvenate it almost immediately.
Does it hurt?
Skin type is a fundamental effecting factor in this treatment as due to the high level of pigment in the skin. Tolerance of pain is very individual from person to person and machine to machine.
No anaesthetics are required, and most people describe the sensation as similar to that of a rubber band snapping onto the skin. You may find it comforting to cool the skin after the treatment.
What can I expect?
You may notice that the age spot looks a little “dirty” for a few days following treatment. After that, you should find that the area will flake away and will find that your skin looks lighter where treated. You may need additional treatments to get to the desired effect and these can be repeated no sooner than 6 weeks apart.
Do I need to take special precautions before and after treatment?
The light used is a completely safe, visible light. Potentially harmful wavelengths are removed by our unique filtering system.
Since tanning takes place by accumulation of pigment (melanin) in the skin, it is, however, important you avoid tanning (sun, solarium or self-tanning cream) before and during the treatment period. Otherwise, your tanned skin will absorb more light, which makes treatment less effective. Generally, no post-treatment care is necessary. But you may benefit from applying an ice pack immediately after treatment or applying Aloe-Vera gel which can be provided at your appointment. Furthermore, we recommend to using a sunscreen (minimum SPF 60) for a few weeks following treatment.
You can take a look at the range of SUNSCREENS available in our SHOP but our recommendation would be Heliocare Pigment Solution Fluid