FAQS

How long does pigmentation take to fade after laser?

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Laser, intense pulsed light and BBL (BroadBand Light) are effective ways of treating skin pigmentation. The time it takes for pigmentation to fade following treatment varies according to skin type, the darkness and the type of pigmentation.

Interested in treatments for pigmentation? Book a complimentary consultation with our nurse or dermal therapist.

Pigmentation refers to discolouration or uneven coloration of the skin, which can be caused by various factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, and aging. Pigmentation can appear as brown spots, freckles, age spots, and other types of skin discolouration. Laser, IPL and BBL treatment are common approaches used to reduce or eliminate pigmentation.

The time it takes for people to notice a difference in the visible pigmentation before and after BBL treatment is variable and depends on factors such as:

  • Skin type.
  • Darkness of pigmentation.
  • Cause of pigmentation.

In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for the pigmentation to fade.

BBL and laser treatment are not one-off treatments. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results. Patients should follow their doctor or dermal therapist’s recommendations regarding the number of treatments required and any aftercare instructions to maximise the effectiveness of the treatment.

‍What is BBL treatment?

BBL treatment stands for BroadBand Light treatment, which uses a non-invasive light-based technology to target pigmentation, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin tone and texture. BBL treatment works by delivering pulses of light energy that target the pigmented cells in the skin. The light energy is absorbed by the melanin, causing the pigmented cells to break down and fade over time. The body’s natural healing processes then work to eliminate the pigmented cells, resulting in a more even skin tone.

It’s extremely important to consider sun spots vs. skin cancer. Sun spots, also known as solar lentigines, are a type of pigmentation caused by sun exposure and are typically benign. They can be treated with laser, IPL or BBL for cosmetic purposes (i.e. to improve appearance). Skin cancer, on the other hand, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can appear as pigmentation or other skin abnormalities. It’s essential to have pigmented spots examined by a dermatologist or accredited skin cancer doctor before commencing IPL, BBL or laser treatment to fade pigmentation.

Dr Chris Miller
Written by Dr Chris Miller Accredited skin cancer doctor

MBBS, MA (Virtual Comm), Grad Cert Hlth Info, Grad Dip Comp Inf Sci

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