Just about everyone has a few obvious brown spots on their skin. Freckles, "age spots", "liver spots" and various birthmarks are just a few of the commonly known marks, generally referred to as pigmented lesions. Although most brown spots are easily ignored, many are quite conspicuous and can detract from your skin's natural beauty.

Melanin (dark pigment in the skin) gives skin its color. Dark or light complexioned, we all have varying amounts of melanin.

Pigmented lesions are dark in color simply because melanin is abnormally concentrated in one area of the skin. High concentrations of melanin can be due to various factors. Some types are present at birth, but most occur with age or as a result of overexposure to the sun's damaging rays.

Pigmented lesions can be successfully lightened or removed with modern laser technology. A laser removes pigmented lesions with the energy of light, leaving lighter color skin alone. Pigmented lesions are either lightened or removed when the laser light passes through the skin but is absorbed by abnormal concentrations of melanin.

Dr. Galoob has been using lasers for skin treatments for more than 15 years. The Q-Switched YAG laser used by Dr. Galoob is one of the most advanced lasers available for the removal of pigmented lesions. It provides a combination of specific light color and rapid pulses that provides maximum removal of darker melanin pigment spots and leaves normal skin alone.

Questions and Answers

How many treatments will it take?

The number of treatments will depend on the depth and amount of the melanin pigment. Most brown or black spots can be completely removed with 3-4 treatments.

Does the treatment hurt?

Each laser pulse causes heat when it contacts melanin pigment. This discomfort can range from a mild snapping sensation to more discomfort. Some patients tolerate treatments without any topical or local anesthesia. Dr. Galoob can provide either topical or injectible anesthetic (like the dentist) to make you comfortable during treatment. Constant cold air is applied to the skin during treatment to make you more comfortable.

Will any of the melanin pigment remain after treatment?

With enough treatments, the pigment can be completely removed. Some patients are satisfied with fading and partial removal. Some want complete removal. Overaggressive treatments can cause scarring and undesirable result. The goal is to gradually fade the discoloration and avoid a scar if possible.

How often are treatments performed?

Treatments can be performed as often as every two weeks or less frequently if desired. The melanin pigment continues to fade in between each treatment. This interval allows skin healing and fading to maximize before the next treatment.

What types of brown spots or pigmented lesions will the laser remove?

The YAG laser is most commonly used for removing brown age spots, liver spots, freckles and many brown birthmarks. Dr. Galoob will identify your specific type of lesion and discuss the removal success rate associated with it. (IMPORTANT: The laser cannot be used for the removal of pigmented lesions that are cancerous or suspected of being cancerous. If there is any doubt, your physician will discuss the appropriate treatment methods with you.)

Why doesn't' the laser remove my normal skin pigmentation also?

YAG laser light selectively targets dark concentrations of melanin pigment. Your body's natural regenerative system will replace normal melanin pigment after the abnormal concentrations of melanin are removed. This allows your skin to return to its natural state.

Can the excess pigmentation come back?

Common pigmented lesions do not return. Some birthmarks may return after a period of several months to a year. However, the procedure can be repeated with similar results.

What type of post-treatment care is necessary?

An antibacterial ointment will be initially applied to the area. A shower can be taken the same day, but avoid scrubbing the treated area. Since most common pigmented lesions are caused by exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays, it is imperative that you always wear sunscreen. Failure to wear a protective sunscreen will allow more sun damage to occur and can result in new pigmented lesions. Dr. Galoob will recommend the appropriate level of Sunscreen for your specific skin type.

Treatment

Special precautions are taken to protect your eyes and personnel who will be in the room. Everyone wears special glasses or eye shields. (Our practice meets the standards of the AAAHC (www.aaahc.org) for laser safety). Lasers are maintained and calibrated on a regular basis and a technician is available at all times during the procedure.

The procedure will either be performed by Dr. Galoob or one of his experienced staff. Initial laser settings are verified by Dr. Galoob prior to each treatment. It is common for him to apply a test pulse to himself as a last safety check before treatment. The laser is pulsed in multiple spots over the area for complete coverage (like turning a flashlight off and on each time). Each pulse feels like being snapped with a rubber band. Cold air is applied over the skin during the treatment to provide comfort and to protect the skin from heat produced when the laser light contacts the hair root. Afterwards, the skin may be slightly red. Occasionally irritation and blistering may occur. A soothing cream will be placed on the skin after treatment. Irritation may last for several days.

If you are interested in learning more about YAG laser treatments for pigmented lesions contact our office and we will be happy to answer your questions.