To answer this in short, it’s because we want to reduce any potential risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). PIH is the darkening of the skin resulting from some form of injury or trauma to the surface of the skin.

Within our skin, melanin has a major role in photo-protection. Melanocytes are the cells that create melanin which gives our skin the color. Melanin is packed into little organelles called melanosomes and then transferred into our keratinocytes (primary cells found within our skin).

When we expose our skin to UV-radiation, some of us would tan which means our melanocytes are more active, therefore producing more melanosomes to protect the keratinocytes from potential damage. Thus, if our melanocytes are already active from UV radiation and we decided to perform a laser treatment, which notably induces heat; then there would be an increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

When will I see optimal results after pigment reduction laser treatment?

Generally speaking, the results of the treatment using Hollywood Spectra can be seen shortly after the skin heals from the first session. However, some specific types of pigmentation require more than one treatment session.

Your personalized treatment plan recommendation for optimal results will be discussed during your initial consultation.