Sun exposure, aging, and hormonal changes can lead to the development of sun spots and pigmentation on the skin. They can create an uneven skin tone that many find frustrating. Fortunately, advancements in cosmetic medicine have made it possible to effectively treat these concerns with laser treatments. These treatments can offer a safe and efficient way to reduce pigmentation.
How Laser Treatments Work
Laser treatments for sun spots and pigmentation work by targeting the melanin, or pigmented spots, on the skin. During the procedure, a specialized laser emits light energy that is absorbed by the excess melanin in the targeted areas. This energy breaks down the pigment into smaller particles, which are then naturally eliminated by the body’s immune system. Over time, the treated areas lighten, and the skin tone becomes more uniform. There are different types of lasers used to treat pigmentation issues, including ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers work by removing the outer layers of the skin, allowing new, healthy skin to form. Non-ablative lasers can target the pigment beneath the skin’s surface without damaging the outer layers. We offer effective lasers such as IPL, ResurFX, Q-switch, and CO2 laser resurfacing at our premiere Boise med spa. We will determine the most appropriate type of laser for your specific skin concerns and type.
Laser Treatments at Silk Touch Cosmetic Surgery & Medspa
Each of these lasers serves different purposes, and the choice between them will depend on your specific skin concerns, the desired results, and how much downtime you are willing to tolerate. Non-ablative lasers typically involve less downtime but may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired effect, while ablative lasers tend to offer more dramatic results with fewer sessions but with longer recovery times.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) | Non-ablative
IPL is technically not a laser but uses broad-spectrum light to treat a variety of skin concerns such as pigmentation, sun spots, redness, and broken capillaries. The light penetrates the skin’s surface and targets specific skin issues without damaging the outer layer. IPL is considered non-ablative because it does not remove layers of skin. Instead, it heats the dermis to stimulate collagen production and improve the skin’s appearance.
M22 ResurFX | Non-ablative
ResurFX is a fractional laser treatment that targets deeper layers of the skin without causing significant damage to the surface layer. It’s used for skin resurfacing, improving texture, and reducing wrinkles or scars. Since it only affects columns of skin tissue, leaving the surrounding areas intact, it is considered non-ablative, which reduces downtime compared to ablative lasers.
M22 Q-Switch Laser | Non-ablative
Q-switch lasers are known for their ability to treat pigmentation issues, such as melasma, sunspots, and tattoos, by delivering short pulses of high-energy light. These pulses target pigmented areas or ink particles in the skin, breaking them down without causing damage to the surrounding tissue. Q-switch lasers are non-ablative because they do not vaporize or remove the outer skin layers but rather target specific pigment in the skin.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing/SmartXide Dot Therapy | Ablative
CO2 laser is an ablative laser used for more intensive skin resurfacing treatments. It works by vaporizing the outer layers of the skin, removing damaged skin cells and stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers. This type of laser is highly effective for treating deeper wrinkles, scars, and skin irregularities but requires more downtime due to the removal of skin layers. The CO2 laser is considered one of the more aggressive treatments but can yield dramatic improvements.
Book a FREE Skin Analysis and Find your Laser Skin Treatment in Boise, ID
If you’re dealing with sun spots or pigmentation and longing for an even complexion, laser treatments might be the right solution to fully rejuvenate and restore your skin! If you want to opt for laser treatments, call us at 208-939-3110 and schedule a consultation at Silk Touch Cosmetic Surgery & MedSpa.