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Pigmented Lesions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR PIGMENTED LESIONS
"Healthy Skin Is Beautiful Skin"
What is the difference between the IPL and laser treatment of pigmented lesions?
IPL stands for intense pulsed light. The IPL is used for sun damaged skin, brown
spots and uneven skin tones. It has also been used to increase collagen, improve
pigmented acne scars, and lessen the redness with rosacea. Laser treatments can
be used for the same treatments except it covers a smaller area at a time, and the
spectrum of light is more direct. Many patients choose the laser treatment
approach if they only have a few, discrete pigmented lesions they want to have
treated.

How many treatments can I expect?
It may take several treatments to get the desired results. We say to expect up to
5, but in most cases it can take less, and in rare cases not help at all.

What does it feel like?
It may feel like a rubber band snap, but is usually very minimal.

What can I expect after treatment?
Usually within approximately 20 minutes you will see a slightly darker color of the
area treated. It can take up to 3 weeks for the discoloration to slough off. It may
feel like a slight sunburn sensation for a few days following the treatment. In
some cases, it may look like a superficial burn and in rare cases, a blister may
appear. It is very important to follow all post treatment instructions and stay out
of the sun for at least a 4 week period following treatment to avoid irritation to
the treated area. If you cannot avoid sun exposure, then a sunscreen of no less
than 30 SPF should be used.

How do I prepare for the treatments?
It is very important for you to stay out of the sun, as you could cause discoloration
in the area treated. We recommend 4 weeks prior and throughout the treatments
series. If you cannot avoid sun exposure, you should use a minimum sun screen
protection of 30 SPF or higher.