- McNeil House, George Street, Axminster, Devon, EX13 5DP
- 01297 35667
We offer a range of treatments for pigmentation removal, primarily we use IPL. Our skin gets its colour from a pigment called melanin, which is made by our melanocyte cells. Pigmented lesions such as sunspots, age spots and freckles can be triggered by excessive sun exposure, age, hereditary factors or hormones. Pigmentation can occur on the face, hands, arms, shoulders and chest. You may notice your pigmentation becomes more apparent in the summer months; this is your skin’s response to an increase in sun exposure.
Discolouration and sun damage are a key sign of ageing, with an increase in pigmented lesions you will experience uneven skin tone and a lack of radiance. This non-invasive treatment uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to break down the targeted cells, while stimulating collagen and elastin production. Pigmented lesions such as sunspots, age spots, and freckles can be successfully cleared creating a more flawless, youthful, and glowing appearance. Following a thorough consultation, we will treat your skin with IPL
Key Facts:
Light is released in short pulses that are readily absorbed by the high concentration of melanin found within pigmented lesions. The rapid absorption of light energy heats the melanin and causes the destruction of the melanin-rich cells.
The light applicator is placed on the skin and a short pulse of light is released. The applicator is then moved to the neighbouring area and the process is repeated until the entire area is treated. During treatment protective eye wear will be provided.
Most people are suitable for treatment except for very dark skinned or tanned individuals. However, large, dark, mottled or raised pigmentation cannot be treated and may need to be checked by a dermatologist. Large, dark moles should not be treated, nor should lesions covering a large part of the body. The pigmented marks that respond the best are superficial lesions such as those caused by sun damage (sun spots) and freckles.
Most patients describe the discomfort as mild and tolerable and no anaesthesia is required.
The treated area may feel warm and sensitive for the first few days post treatment. The lesions may darken and may appear more obvious before they fade and ‘flake’ away. Sometimes an initial whitening of the area is seen which quickly fades and the pigment gradually fades over the following few weeks.
The skin that surrounds the pigmented lesion may become red immediately after treatment. Most people experience no other side effects and the redness usually disappears within hours to a few days. Very rarely a small blister may form or the skin may become temporarily lighter or darker.
The length of each treatment will depend on the type and size of lesion present, but a typical session will take 10 to 30 minutes.
The number of treatments will depend on the type and size of the pigmented lesion but typically 1 to 3 sessions are required at 4 to 6 week intervals.
Prior to treatment you must first undergo a consultation where details about your medical history are obtained in order to confirm suitability. Before proceeding you will be asked to sign a consent form and undergo a test patch.
