Melasma

TIRED OF LOOKING AT THOSE DARK SPOTS ON YOUR SKIN ?

Melasma

You may have a common skin condition called Melasma.
Unwanted skin pigmentation is extremely common, particularly in Australia with our extreme UV exposure.

Unfortunately, in some women the combination of UV exposure and estrogen can have an unwanted effect on the skin creating patches of pigmentation which are called Melasma. Whilst not having any direct effects on health, some find it unsightly and for some, can be quite debilitating for their self-confidence.

We’re here to help you treat it.
Let us help you show your natural beauty in its best light with our laser melasma treatment.

 

Book a complimentary consultation with one of our Doctors or Registered Nurses.

What to expect

Every face is unique. With this in mind, we approach every laser treatment uniquely.

You can expect your melasma treatment journey to go something like this:

At your initial consultation with one of our highly experienced cosmetic professionals, we will obtain your relevant medical history, answer any questions and gain an understanding of your desires and expectations.

We will take the time to discuss treatment options with you, which might include things like chemical peels or IPL and assess whether laser treatment or another form of treatment, is the right one for your needs.

Laser therapy is safe and works with your body’s natural processes to target the melanin pigment that causes Melasma. The treatment prompts your immune system to mop up the pigment treated with laser.

Our Carbon Laser Peel, not only delivers amazing results with Melasma but delivers a host of other benefits including collagen induction, softer more radiant skin, smaller pores and a wonderful smooth complexion.

The procedure is relatively quick, and painless and usually takes around 15 minutes.

At Fresh Faces Cosmetic Medicine, we hear you. We listen to your concerns, ensuring we completely understand your needs and desires, and address these to give you your desired outcome, not ours.

Expected Results

Every face is different, but in most cases, you can expect your skin to dramatically improve to clearer, fresher looking skin.

Your personal skin type and desired results will determine whether more than one treatment may be required.

Expected Results

Every face is different, but in most cases, you can expect your skin to dramatically improve to clearer, fresher looking skin.

Your personal skin type and desired results will determine whether more than one treatment may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

IPL Vs. Lasers: What's the Difference?

Intense pulsed light is not a laser per se. It’s an intense light source. But so is a laser, fundamentally-speaking, albeit a far more intense light source. What makes IPL different from laser is that it directs a broad-spectrum high intensity light pulse on the skin instead of a more invasive, precisely calibrated laser beam set on a narrower, specific wavelength.

In other words, IPL operates on a wider range of wavelengths and thus, one IPL machine can treat more than one condition, using special filters to remove unwanted wavelengths and keep only those required for the specific skin concern being addressed.

So if a clinic has an IPL machine, then it’s safe to assume a variety of skin conditions as well as hair removal can be addressed whereas lasers work on a narrow wavelength range, which means a clinic may be able to only address one specific skin concern with one laser machine.

The downside of IPL is that while each individual treatment is allegedly less expensive, safer and gentler than laser, it is also less intensive and as such, the results are not quite as dramatic. Therefore, more repeat visits may be required to produce desired results.

What do I need to do prior to treatment?

In order to minimize any potential side effects, individuals preparing to undergo an either IPL or a Laser treatment should

  • avoid going in the sun without SPF30 sunscreen (must contain UVA and UVB filters) for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment
  • ensure treatment area is free of sunburn, suntan, fake tanning, herpes outbreak (cold sores), inflammatory acne, eczema, hypo or hyperpigmentation
  • avoid over-the-counter blood-thinning agents for at least a week (Aspirin, ibuprofen)
  • If you are using any types of medication for your skin, please consult with our team a few weeks before your treatment, so we can determine if there are any additional risks we should consider.
Does it hurt?

Clients and practitioners commonly compare the sensation felt during laser/IPL treatments to a rubber band snapping against the skin. However, what laser resurfacing feels like depends on the laser, the depth and area of treatment, and an individual’s tolerance for pain.

Deeper ablative (some outer layers of skin are removed) laser treatments may require local anesthetic injections or a topical cream to keep a patient comfortable.

Some non-ablative laser treatments (the laser passes through the skin without removing layers) cause little-to-no pain and require only a topical numbing cream to offset discomfort. Following the procedure, some degree of tenderness in the treatment area can be expected. Your provider will recommend safe ways to control discomfort after laser resurfacing when necessary.

What do I need to do after the treatment?

In order to minimize any potential side effects, individuals who’ve just undergone an IPL or laser Rejuvenation should:

      • immediately apply moisturizer and a full spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 protecting against UVA and UVB rays
      • wear full spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 protecting against UVA and UVB rays, every day on the treated area for at least 30 days (failure to do so can result in complications and skin damage)
      • avoid the sun as much as possible for the duration of the treatment plan as well as the next 30 days following the final treatment
      • avoid applying foundation or powder makeup immediately after the treatment session, if possible (although Oxygentics foundations are fine)
      • not take hot baths for 48 hours following treatment (hot showers not recommended either, hot water must not touch the treated area, warm showers are fine)
      • not engage in strenuous exercise that produces perspiration for 48 hours in order to avoid infection
      • not scratch or pick treated area to avoid infection
      • as with pre-treatment measures, if you are using any types of medication for your skin, please consult with our team a few weeks before your treatment, so we can determine if there are any additional risks we should consider.
      • moisturize frequently
Is there any downtime after IPL?

No. Unlike with most laser treatments, which often require a few days of recovery as a result of extreme redness, blistering and peeling, an IPL treatment requires no downtime, appearing in most cases as if one has just a slight sunburn or exercised on a cardio machine for an hour. You can book an appointment on your lunch break and go back to work right after, with colleagues none the wiser.    

Is there any downtime after a laser treatment?

Although laser treatments are generally considered non-surgical, not all are downtime-free. Laser resurfacing recovery time varies depending on the type of laser used as well as an individual’s health and healing rate.

Non-ablative lasers often require no downtime at all, while ablative lasers can require a 2 to 3 week healing process, depending on depth, before the new skin has healed completely and final results are evident.

This does not mean you have to stay at home for a month; it just means that your skin will be raw, red and scab over as it heals. You may not feel comfortable in certain social situations, and you will need to modify your activities to avoid situations where infection is possible (swimming, gym workouts, etc.).

Can Laser and IPL treatments be performed on darker skins?

A common misconception is that laser resurfacing is only safe for light skin types. While it is true that certain lasers pose a higher risk for cell damage or discoloration in darker skin, there are safe and effective resurfacing options.

The best way to ensure a safe, effective treatment for your skin type? Consult with one of our experienced practitioners who have extensive training and knowledge in laser resurfacing procedures and experience working with darker skinned patients.

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