Pigmentation, Brown Spots and Freckles | Skin Conditions

Unwanted pigmentation is an extremely common problem for most Australian women. A harsh climate and a culture of sun worship and outdoor pursuits take an eventual toll on frequently exposed areas, especially the face, hands and decolletage. Fortunately most of these blemishes can be easily and safely removed following assessment with a variety of medical treatments, including laser therapy. The treatment of pigmentation in those with underlying olive or brown skin should only be done under medical supervision. Dr Teska is experienced at treating these skin types and is able to prepare the skin for laser treatment using a prescription-only fading cream. Assessment of pre treatment skin is assisted with the use of the Visia skin complexion analysis machine. This is a digital camera and computer software program that can accurately record a baseline of your skin's condition and then allows for easy follow up of treatment results following laser therapy. The lasers used to fade and remove pigmentation include the Mini Gentlelase (Alexandrite) Medlite C6 (Q-switched YAG) and Cutera XEO (IPL), and the highly anticipated Pearl laser system.

Pearl offers the most effective treatment to address fine lines, uneven texture and discoloration without the lengthy downtime associated with Fractionated technology. Compared to these technologies Pearl offers noticeable results in just one treatment, instead of three or four. This makes Pearl the more time and cost effective option. What is the Pearl procedure?The Pearl procedure combines the impact of resurfacing lasers with the gentleness and safety of non- invasive procedures to treat aging and sun-damaged skin. Pearl reduces wrinkles, uneven texture and solar damage with fewer treatments and less overall recovery than other technologies to provide a healthy pearl like glow.

During the procedure, the top layer of skin is treated with pulses of light in a pre- selected pattern. The laser simultaneously sends heat to the deeper layers of skin to provide longer- term benefits. A natural protective dressing forms on the skin to minimize downtime during the restorative process. On day two or three this natural dressing will peel or slough off, leaving new, healthy, vibrant skin underneath. In a short time patients will notice overall skin clarity, smoothness and softness - all from a 15 minute treatment with only 3- 4 days of "social" downtime!

Patients with light to medium skin tones and mild to moderate sun damage are the ideal candidates for this treatment.

The Pearl treatment feels like a series of brief pinches. On a scale of one to ten, with ten being the most painfull, most patients report the treatment feeling like a two or three.

After a treatment, the skin will look and feel mildly sunburned. You will apply ointment on the skin for 3- 4 days. Since you cannot wear sunscreen during this time, you will need to wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure for a few days after the treatment. Downtime is the time spent recovering from a procedure. With social downtime, you can continue with your normal activities. However you may not wish to attend important social events because your face will appear pink/red for 3- 4 days. Results will be noticeable by day 3 or 4 when the superficial tissue has peeled off, leaving fresh, new, healthy skin underneath. Makeup may be applied at this time.

Some patients may require two treatments approximately one month apart to achieve the desired results. Other patients may need only one treatment.

All laser treatments at VCS are performed only by trained, experienced medical practitioners.