Hyperpigmentation


Hyperpigmentation is dark patches of skin that result from excess melanin production. Lightening creams are applied to lighten the skin over time. Chemical peels use acids to remove the epidermis. Laser skin resurfacing uses targeted beams of light to treat the skin. Ablative lasers remove layers of skin. Non-ablative lasers promote collagen growth and tighter skin. An IPL (intense pulsed light) handpiece uses light pulses to penetrate down to the second layer of the skin and stimulate skin rejuvenation. Microdermabrasion uses chemicals and a powder placed in a machine. Exfoliants are placed on the skin. The machine clears the exfoliants and abrades the skin to remove dark patches.

 Ideal candidates are looking to remove dark patches of skin as well as treat wrinkles, spots, sun damage and rosacea. Patients should consult with a doctor to make sure their skin type is ideal for any of the above treatments and to also determine which treatment will give the desired results.

The typical cost for hyperpigmentation treatment depends on the type of treatment, the amount of work that needs to be done and any fees charged by the doctor or the facility. Lightening creams can be bought over the counter or be prescribed by a doctor and cost anywhere from $20-$150. Chemical peels run $100-$1000 depending on the type of peel and laser skin resurfacing runs from $1500-$2500. IPL treatments are $300-$700 per treatment and microdermabrasion runs from $100-$200 per session.

Depending on the area treated and how aggressive the treatment is, the treated area of skin might be red and sensitive after the treatment. There could be some mild redness, swelling and bruising after the treatment. Depending on the patient's habits, lifestyle and amount of exposure to the sun, the results can last for a period of one month to several years.

Halo Hybrid Fractional Laser

Halo Hybrid Fractional Laser

submitted on   Wed Jun, 15, 2016 by Aric Aghayan, MD     
Halo hybrid fractional laser is a skin laser that delivers ablative and non-ablative wavelengths of laser energy at the same time. Ablative lasers, like CO2 and Erbium, vaporize the outer skin layers to effectively resurface and rejuvenate the skin. Non-ablative technologies like Fraxel laser...