Laser Pigment Removal

The information below is general in nature. Some side effects are very rare, whereas others may be more common. The severity will vary from one client to another.

During your consultation, we can advise you of any side effects that we believe may be of higher risk to you.

We strongly advise getting a skin cancer check done before undergoing any form of laser pigment removal.

• Some discomfort may be experienced during the treatment. Darker pigmented lesions will hold more heat.
  • The sensation is often described as a rubber band snap or hot pin prick.
• During and after the procedure, expect redness, itching, burning, irritation, tightness, swelling with a hive-like reaction. These sensations will gradually diminish over 48 hours
• Some clients may react differently. In severe cases, the skin may turn very red, blister, swell and later scab or crust.
• There is a risk of developing temporary or permanent post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH) or hypopigmentation.
• There is a risk of triggering an outbreak of ‘cold sores’. Laser Pigment Removal cannot be performed if an active cold sore is present.
• There is a rare incidence of scarring and infection.
• The treated pigmented lesion will change in colour, thicken or graze and will lift off like dry skin approx 2 weeks after treatment.

Contraindications are specific reasons or circumstances that will prevent you from receiving the treatment due to a high risk of complications.

If any of the following apply to you, the treatment will not go ahead.

• Currently Pregnant
• Roaccutane or Accutane within the past 3-6 months
• Photosensitising medications (Tetracycline, Tretinoin etc.)
• Psoriasis, eczema, lupus erythematosus, open wounds, sun or wind-burned skin, infected or irritated skin in treatment location
• Severe Acne or Rosacea
• Currently undergoing chemotherapy, radiation or immune disorder treatments.

Treatment may still be possible, but you may need to be willing to take extra steps and precautions to ensure the treatment remains safe and suitable for you.

You must inform us if any of the following apply to you:

• History of skin cancer – Must have completed recent skin cancer check (<1 month with specialist confirmation of no suspicious lesions)
• Diabetes – May impede wound healing
• Tattoos including semi-permanent makeup – cannot treat within 1 inch of the tattoo
• Pacemakers – cannot treat within 6 inches of implant
• History of keloids or hypertrophic scarring
• History of vitiligo – Depigment may occur
• Smoking – impairs healing and increases the risk of complications
• Fresh scars – Check with your surgeon and/or specialist before starting treatment
• Seborrheic Keratosis may only be lightened and often recur
• Melasma is particularly difficult to treat and heat based treatments may exacerbate symptoms
• Superficial/Epidermal pigment is targeted. Dermal pigment is not suited to this type of treatment.

Although rare, these are possible adverse side-effects that may occur, especially if you fail to follow the pre and post treatment advice provided:

• WOUNDS – Medium Risk – Heat based treatment with risk of burns. Higher risk areas include scalp, hands and ears.
• INFECTION – Low Risk – Unlikely, but more common in the facial area. Any type of wound can develop into infection
• SKIN COLOUR CHANGES – High Risk – Treatment is used to reduce freckles, sunspots and similar lesions. However, there is a risk of developing temporary or permanent post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH) or hypopigmentation. Daily SPF is mandatory.
• HAIR LOSS – High Risk – Hair loss may occur for any dark hairs within and in close proximity to the pigmented lesion.
• DARK SKIN TYPES – High Risk – Have an increased risk of complications and/or pigmentary issues. Additional preparation and post care may be required to maximise skin protection.