No, it can sometimes cause a mild, temporary sensation, often described as a "rubber band snap" or a "stinging sensation". Some people find the treatment barely noticeable, while others describe it as mildly uncomfortable.

The number of laser treatments needed for hyperpigmentation varies depending on the type of pigmentation being treated, the size & depth, and severity, as well as your skin type.

Generally, for optimal results, 1-3 sessions are recommended for mild pigmentation and 4-6 sessions for moderate to severe pigmentation. Treatments are typically spaced 4 weeks apart to allow the skin to heal and pigment to fade gradually.

No, in most cases it takes 1-2 weeks for the treated skin to gradually break down and flake off, after which you'll notice a visible difference to the skin beneath

Melasma should not be treated with laser unless part of a full treatment plan by a doctor or dermatologist. This is because melasma is a more complex form of pigmentation & often involves multiple layers of the skin, and pigment deep within the dermis, making it difficult for lasers to reach and target effectively. Additionally, melasma is often caused by a combination of factors, including hormonal changes, inflammation, and sun exposure, making it more challenging to treat with a single laser treatment.

Unfortunately there are some medical conditions that would make laser treatments unsafe, these are;

• Lupus
• Immunosuppressive diseases (such as aids/HIV)
• Keloid scarring
• Bleeding/clotting disorders
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Anticoagulant/blood thinning medication
• Uncontolled diabetes 
• Skin cancer 
• Melasma or psoriasis in the treatment area
• Photosensitivity, or any sensitivity to the sun that causes a rash or allergic reaction
• Gold therapy or methotrexate
• Immunosuppressive medications
• Liver disease, such as hepatitis
• History of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation

There are also some medical conditions and medications that prevent laser treatments in the short-term, but providing you have none of the above, you could commence treatment once they were resolved. these are;

• Preghnancy & breastfeeding
• Active skin infections (e.g. eczema, herpes/colds sores)
• Oral Isotretinoin or other prescription acne medication (such as Accutane/Roaccutane) in the last 6 months
• Medical chemical peel, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing or face lift at site of treatment in the last 6 months
• Light sensitive medications/herbal supplements, or perfumes/cosmetics/skincare that affect sensitivity to light
• Use of NSAID's in the last week
• Surgery or anaesthetic in the last 2 weeks
• Open lacerations or abrasions in the treatment area
• Botox or fillers in/under the treatment area
• Chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or radio frequency treatment in the last 4 weeks
• Some types of antibiotics

The Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser is a clinically proven and widely used technology for treating hyperpigmentation. It works by delivering short, high-energy pulses of light that target & break down pigment particles in the skin without damaging the surrounding tissue.

How It Targets Pigment:

• The laser emits short, powerful pulses of light that penetrate the skin.
• The energy from the laser is absorbed by the excess melanin in the pigmented areas.
• The rapid pulses cause the pigment to break down into smaller particles. 
• Over time, your body's natural healing process gradually removes these fragments, leading to a more even skin tone.

• No sun-tanning or self-tanners 3-4 weeks prior to treatment  (Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun bathing, etc), and wear sunscreen when out in the sun 

• Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)

• Discontinue use of retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid 7 days before treatment

• Avoid alcohol, smoking and strong painkillers for 24 hours prioir to your appointment 

• Ensure your skin is clean and free of any makeup or lotions before arriving

   

Yes, there are some important ways to take care of your skin and aid healing after treatment, these are;

• Avoid direct sun exposure (sunbathing, holidays, sun beds) for 14-30 days post-treatment
• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) daily
• Avoid active skincare (retinols, AHAs, BHAs), as well as any products containing high levels of vitamin A and glycolic acid for at least 5 days
• Keep the treated area clean and moisturised with a gentle product
• Don’t exfoliate you skin within the first 7 days as it may cause irritation
• Do not pick or scratch at any scabs, crusting, flaking skin or blisters
• Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers/baths, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs for a minimum of 48 hours
• Do not apply makeup for 24–48 hours, or until skin sensitivity has fully resolved
• Avoid harsh skincare or cosmetics on the area until fully healed
• Apply cool compresses as needed for discomfort or swelling

Common side effects can include; temporary darkening of pigmented spots (this is normal and fades), mild redness and sensitivity, light flaking or crusting as pigment lifts from the skin.

Most side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within a few hours to a few days.

Yes, all laser treatments require a full consultation & patch test before the first treatment can go ahead. 

During the consultation we'll discuss your medical history, medications and other influencing factors, to make sure laser is a safe and suitable treatment for your goals.

We will then carry out a patch test to assess your skin sensitivity & response to the laser. This helps determine the appropriate settings for the laser & identify any potential adverse reactions or side effects. 

Please allow up to an hour for the initial consultation appointment.