Pigmentation Treatments in Launceston, TAS

Benign pigmented lesions are coloured spots or patches on the skin caused by increased production of melanin, the dark pigment in the skin. These are cosmetic blemishes, with no medical consequences.

Some lesions are present at birth while many develop with exposure to the sun or with age. Almost everyone has at least some kind of pigmented lesion whether they are freckles, birthmarks, sunspots or other benign lesions.

Now these unsightly blemishes can be treated quickly and easily with a non-invasive technology, PhotoDerm MultiLight (IPL).

IPL is a breakthrough for eliminating benign pigmented lesions safely and effectively, without incisions and with minimal side effects. It is a non-invasive medical light system that uses light therapy to eliminate or reduce age spots, sunspots, freckles, birthmarks, and other unsightly discolouration of the skin. IPL safely eliminates or reduces these spots without surgery, dermabrasion, or other painful procedures. It is based on the advanced technology that successfully treats leg veins, spider veins, port wine stains and other benign vascular lesions.

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Which pigmented lesions can be treated?

PhotoDerm MultiLight treats the full range of:

• Benign pigmented lesions
• Freckles
• Age spots (lentigo)
• Sun-spots (solar lentigos)
• Cafe au lait macules (birthmarks)
• Seborrheic keratosis
• Hyper pigmentation

Who are candidates for treatment?

Most people can be treated for pigmentation. A consultation will be necessary prior to treatment and because there may be a risk of undetected skin cancer present we prefer most pigmentation cases to be seen by Dr Julie Ostberg prior to treatment.

Most people including children may be treated with PhotoDerm MultiLight.

How Does PhotoDerm MultiLight Work?

You will be given protective glasses to wear as it is a very bright light. A thick layer of cold gel will be applied to the treatment site. A small crystal is placed on top of the gel and intense pulsed light is generated which attracts to the melanin or colour of the pigment. The pigment will absorb the light and become very hot. Immediately, there will be a darkening of pigmentation which will gradually fade over the next two to three weeks leaving a lighter coloured lesion or total removal of the pigmented lesion in the skin.

What is treatment like?

Treatment involves a pulse of intense light, similar to the flash of a camera. You may feel a slight pinch or snap of a rubber band. No local anaesthesia or pain medication is required.

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Are there side effects?

You may experience some short-term side effects. This may include slight reddening of the skin or local swelling which goes away within a few days. The area may sting a little like sunburn for one to two hours but usually settles quickly. The pigment will darken in varying degrees from mild increase in colour to quite dark. In rare instances there may be some blistering and/or bruising.

How many treatments are required?

Freckles, age spots, and sunspots often clear after one to three treatments. Other blemishes may take more treatments.

Are there restrictions on my activity after treatment?

You can return to work the same day and resume most regular activities. You should limit exposure to the sun, which is always a good idea.

Is PhotoDerm MultiLight better than other treatment methods?

This is innovative-patented technology that allows your doctor to customise the treatment specifically for your skin type and blemish. This flexible interactive approach to treatment cannot be achieved with any laser or other non-invasive method currently available.

What about post treatment care?

• Cool packs may be applied immediately after treatment to cool the area, reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
• You must use 30+ sunscreen and protect the treated area from sunlight for at least one month following treatment.
• Do not sun-bake or use solariums for the duration of treatment and at least six weeks after treatment as this increases the risk of hyper and hypo pigmentation.
• Make-up may be worn after treatment however if inflammation or irritation is present discontinue use until the area returns to normal.
• If scabs appear after blistering, they should be kept soft with a lubricating cream or moisturiser.
• Normal face creams may be applied after 24 hours, however if they contain any Retin A or glycolic acid these should be left off for at least 48 hours.

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Who performs the treatment?

All treatments are performed by our Registered Nurse Anne Talbot, Sue MeCoy or Cosmetic Practitioner Dr Julie Ostberg who are fully trained and experienced in IPL and Laser Treatments. You will need to return to the clinic three weeks after treatment for a check-up.

How much will it cost?

Costs will vary with the areas being treated. They can range from $55.00 - $330.00 for full face.

Will Insurance Cover my Treatment?

Insurance coverage varies according to the nature of the medical problem. Pigmentation treatments of a cosmetic nature are not often covered. N.B. Keep all receipts as you may be eligable for a taxation rebate at end of financial year.

Contact us today to find out more information about any of our cosmetic treatments, or to book your appointment.