Picosure for Pigmentation: The Sun Damage Solution

Why You Should Choose Picosure for Pigmentation

Kelowna is well known for having the most beautiful, hot, dry summers, but all of that sunbathing comes at a cost. If you love to spend time outdoors and forget to wear your sunscreen, you may suffer from sun damage. Small dark spots may form on different areas of the face or body. ‘What is that? And how do I get rid of it?’ you may wonder. At Zahra Salon and Medical Spa, we have solutions for all of your skincare needs, and can help you to even out your complexion, I’m here to tell you why you should choose Picosure to treat your pigmentation. Read on to discover a safe way to remove these unsightly spots and discover your inner glow. 

What is Hyper/Hypo pigmentation?

How much melanin we produce determines our skin tone, eye colour, and hair colour. There are several instances where we have too much melanin. Sun exposure, inflammation, hormonal influences, injury and age can all affect how our skin produces pigment. These triggers can cause either the absence of pigment (hypopigmentation) or a darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation), leaving us with a blotchy, uneven complexion.

How can the Picosure Machine help lighten my pigmentation?

The Picosure machine was developed to lighten dark spots on the skin using ultrashort wavelengths called “picopulses” on the skin. The frequency and depth of the pulses help to shatter pigment in the skin without burning the surrounding tissue. Once the treatment is complete, the sunspot will usually darken, and your body will eventually metabolize the pigment. The picosure is safe for freckles, melasma, age spots or sun damage.

How many sessions will I need?

Most pigmentation can be treated within three sessions, spaced one month apart. If a client has melasma, a hormonal pigmentation usually caused by pregnancy, they may require more sessions, as this type of discoloration can be more stubborn. Acne scarring may require more sessions as well. You can expect to see results around  2-3 weeks after your first treatment and improved results with each visit. 

How can I prepare for the treatment, and what can I expect during a session?

Before your treatment, it is wise to avoid all sun exposure, tanning beds and sunless tanning cream four weeks prior. When you arrive, ensure you do not wear makeup, lotions or creams on the treatment area. This procedure has very little pain, and only mild redness or swelling for 24 hours afterwards is expected. Skin may feel tight or dry as well. It is essential to refrain from wearing makeup and using hot tubs, pools or saunas for 24 hours post-procedure as your skin recovers.

Is it permanent? How can I best maintain my results?

Picosure can remove acne scarring and most pigmentation permanently. However, there is always the chance that pigmentation can reoccur due to lifestyle and sun exposure. If you want to maintain results, avoid excessive sun exposure, wear sunscreen and/or a hat EVERY DAY. The sun can stimulate melanin even on a cloudy day, so sun protection should never cease. Be sure not to scratch or rub the treated area. Keep the area moisturized and stay hydrated as the skin repairs itself. Crusting and scabbing are normal and will resolve themselves on their own.

If your sun damage affects your self-esteem and you wish to do something about it, Zahra Salon and Medical Spa is ready to help. Call 250-762-8700 to book a complimentary skin consultation today and see the excellent results for yourself!