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The removal of freckles and other benign skin pigmentation is now possible using dermatological lasers such as the Q-Switched Ruby, Nd:YAG and Alexandrite lasers.

Q-Switched Ruby, Nd:YAG and Alexandrite lasers can specifically target the pigmentation within the skin and hence greatly diminish the risk of unnecessary tissue damage and scarring.

Cosmetically, the results are much more superior to the older continuous wave lasers and other non-laser techniques.

A simple procedure?

The technique in using the Q-Switched lasers is to aim the laser light (varying 3-8mm circle) over the freckle or pigment lesion and then firing one or more pulses of the laser light till the entire area of pigmentation needing treatment has been covered.

Depending on the area being treated, the laser is relatively painless. Most patients do not need anaesthetic. If feels like a soft rubber band flicked at the skin.

Healing time

Healing time after the laser treatment is between 5-14 days as it depends on the individual and the type of lesion treated. A light brown crust initially forms over the treated area, which falls off after 5-10 days. Once the crust has come off, the area underneath will be pink/reddish. This will fade and normal skin colour returns. If some pigmentation returns, then repeat treatment will be necessary.

Expectations/results

One can expect either complete removal or significant fading of the pigmentation after one treatment but more treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results.

Mehmet Hakan writes articles on Cosmetic Medicine for Watchealth