Unsightly skin caused by wrinkles, age spots, old injuries, and melasma can be treated using various methods, the most common of which are topical creams and moisturizers. However, long-term treatment that includes actual healing of the skin involves a more direct approach, namely resurfacing of the upper skin layers.
Quite often, the visible signs of dark spots, especially the symptoms of melasma, can be treated using the novel approach of laser heat application. The Spectra peel technique uses the Spectra laser, a newly developed instrument that actually burns away the upper layers of the skin in a safe, repeatable treatment.
Designed originally to reduce the size of skin pores and to treat uneven skin texture, the Spectra laser is now used to reduce the visibility of melasma spots. Those who suffer from these dark brown or tan-gray spots have a new treatment option. The Spectra laser actually removes the upper layers of dark skin spots and encourages healthy growth of new skin as well as an increase in collagen in the affected area.
How the Process Works
Melasma is caused by several factors including exposure to the sun, hormonal changes, and genetic predisposition. It mostly occurs in adult women between the ages of 25-55. Melasma spots generally occur around the jaw, cheekbones, and the nose.
Treating this skin condition involves applying a substance that positively affects the upper skin layer. Unfortunately, most of the topical applications produce only slight results, and many people are somewhat allergic to the compounds in the cream or salve used.
An alternative is to remove the upper skin layer completely. This is how the Spectra laser works. A carbon lotion is applied to the affected skin. About 15 minutes later, heat targeted to the upper skin layer from the Spectra laser begins to burn away the upper epidermis. Depending on the condition being treated, a steady light ray, or a pulsing beam is used. The settings for beam intensity and pulsation are controlled by the dermatologist.
Not only does the laser treatment work to remove the unwanted skin, it also helps to increase the production of collagen. Excess moisture is also evaporated in the process, meaning that stimulation of healthy new skin is increased. This is good news for those who suffer from melasma because these spots tend to be stubbornly resistant to peeling away using traditional treatments.
Advantages over Other Treatments
The Spectra peel laser treatment is performed in about an hour, and the topical creams prescribed by the dermatologist immediately soothe the burned area where the melasma spot exists. There is no downtime for the patient. He or she can wash the area, apply sunscreen or makeup, and expose the area to the sun the next day.
An ongoing procedure of applying topical treatments is generally recommended after the resurfacing operation is complete. Most patients report a steady diminishing of melasma spots over the next two months after the laser treatment is administered. There are no side effects except a slight tingling due to the first-degree sunburn caused by the application of the laser light beam.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you suffer from melasma, a Spectra Laser treatment at MacMed Spa, Salon and Medical could be the perfect solution. Our medical treatments are safe and effective, and our team will work with you to ensure great results. Contact MacMed Spa, Salon and Medical today to schedule your consultation.
