If you're struggling with hyperpigmentation, you're not alone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns that people experience. While there are a number of over-the-counter treatments available, many people find that these solutions are ineffective. If you're looking for a more reliable way to treat hyperpigmentation, Lumecca IPL/laser may be the answer. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this treatment option.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Before we dive into how Lumecca IPL/laser can help, it's important to understand what hyperpigmentation is. Hyperpigmentation is a condition in which the skin produces too much melanin, resulting in patches of dark skin. While this condition is usually harmless, it can be cosmetic anxiety-inducing for many people.
There are two types of hyperpigmentation:
- Sun damage: This type of hyperpigmentation is caused by exposure to UV radiation from the sun. The resulting dark patches are commonly referred to as "age spots."
- Melasma: This type of hyperpigmentation is often hormonal in nature and characterized by larger patches of dark skin. Melasma typically occurs during pregnancy or when taking birth control pills.
How Lumecca IPL Works:
Lumecca IPL laser treatment works by delivering short pulses of intense light to the skin. This light energy is absorbed by the melanin in the skin, which breaks up the pigment and allows it to be naturally flushed from the body. This process effectively reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and leaves the skin looking brighter and more even-toned.
What Are the Benefits of Lumecca IPL?
There are many benefits of Lumecca IPL for hyperpigmentation. First, it is a non-invasive treatment that does not require any downtime. This means you can resume your normal activities immediately after your treatment session. Additionally, Lumecca IPL is effective for treating small and large pigmentation areas. It can also be used on all skin types and concerns, including sun damage, fine lines, and redness. In addition to erasing pigment, Lumecca IPL also helps to shrink pores and tighten the skin as well. You will often see this treatment paired with our Morphues8 RF Microneedling service.
While results can be seen after the first and second treatment, it's important to note that Lumecca IPL/laser is not a one-time solution; typically, a series of 3-5 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart is necessary for optimal results. Additionally, it's important to wear sunscreen regularly and limit your sun exposure while undergoing treatment as well as afterward in order to prevent further pigmentation issues.
What To Expect During and After Treatment
When you arrive for your Lumecca IPL treatment, your provider will cleanse and map out the area being treated. A test spot will then be performed to ensure that a proper reaction is seen before moving on. You want to avoid sun exposure for a few weeks before and after the treatment to allow the laser to target the correct pigment. If the skin is tanned by the sun, the laser won't be able to tell the difference between your skin and the pigmentation, which prevents the energy from passing deep into the skin to target the brown spot. It will instead target the skin cells, causing discoloration. However, this is why we do that initial test spot, so never fear!
During the treatment, the provider will make multiple passes over the area and you will see an instant darkening of the pigment. This darkening means that the IPL is doing its job and hitting that pigment! Over the next 24 hours, as the pigment comes to the surface, you will see what looks like coffee grounds. These "coffee grounds" will go away on their own, so there is no need to try to scrub them off. These are typically only present for the first 48-72 hours. See the image below for an example of what this looks like.
Is Lumecca For You?
If you're concerned about dark spots or uneven skin tone, Lumecca IPL may be a good option for you. This type of light therapy uses Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to target and break up melanin in the skin. The light is absorbed by the pigment in the skin and converted into heat, which destroys the melanin-producing cells. This leads to a reduction in the appearance of dark spots, age spots, and other types of hyperpigmentation. When you treat pigment in the skin, you are improving the health of your skin, leaving a more youthful appearance. Best of all, it is a non-invasive treatment that does not require any downtime!
If you are thinking that Lumecca IPL may be a good option for you, click below to book a consultation! We'd love to chat with you more about it to see if it is the right fit for you.