pigmentation laser
Enhance your natural beauty
Pigmentation Laser
Pigmentation laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure that uses targeted light or laser energy to reduce excess melanin in the skin. By delivering specific wavelengths, such as Nd: YAG 1064nm for deeper pigmentation and IPL for superficial pigmentation, the treatment selectively breaks down unwanted pigment without damaging surrounding tissue. The fragmented pigment is then naturally cleared by the body over time, resulting in a more even, brighter, and clearer skin tone with minimal downtime.
What is Pigmentation?
Pigmentation is a common skin concern caused by excess melanin production. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin colour and is produced by specialised cells called melanocytes.
When melanocytes become overactive, excess pigment is deposited in the skin, resulting in dark patches, sun spots, melasma, or uneven skin tone. Advanced pigmentation laser treatments help safely reduce unwanted pigmentation while improving overall skin clarity and brightness.
What causes skin pigmentation?
Pigmentation can develop due to multiple internal and external triggers. Common causes include:
Sun exposure and UV damage
Hormonal changes such as pregnancy, birth control, or PCOS
Acne or skin injury (post-inflammatory pigmentation)
Genetic predisposition
Certain medications or skin treatments
Individuals with Asian or darker skin tones may be more prone to pigmentation because melanocytes are naturally more active, not solely due to trauma or injury.
Type of Pigmentation and Where they occur in the skin
Understanding the depth of pigmentation helps determine the most effective treatment approach.
Epidermal Pigmentation (Superficial Pigmentation)
Epidermal pigmentation occurs in the top skin layer.
Appearance:
Light brown or brown pigmentation
- Includes sun spots, freckles, and superficial pigmentation
Best Treatment Options:
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
Superficial pigment lasers
Dermal Pigmentation (Deep Pigmentation)
Dermal pigmentation occurs in deeper skin layers.
Appearance:
- Grey, bluish, or dark brown pigmentation
- Includes dermal melasma and deep post-inflammatory pigmentation
Best Treatment Options:
- Nd:YAG 1064nm laser treatment
Mixed Pigmentation
Best Treatment Approach:
Combination laser treatments
Medical skincare support
Long-term maintenance protocols
How pigmentation Laser works?
Pigmentation laser treatments use selective photothermolysis, a technology that targets
melanin pigment without damaging the surrounding skin
Nd : YAG 1064nm Laser - Treatment for Deep Pigmentation
Nd:YAG 1064nm laser is commonly used to treat deeper pigmentation safely, particularly in darker skin types.
How It Works:
Laser energy is absorbed by melanin
Pigment is broken into microscopic particles
- The body gradually clears pigment through natural immune and lymphatic processes
Benefits Include:
Penetrates deep dermal pigment
Lower risk of rebound pigmentation
Suitable for Asian and darker skin tones
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) – Treatment for Superficial Pigmentation
IPL is a broad-spectrum light treatment designed to treat surface-level pigmentation.
IPL Helps Improve:
Sun spots
Freckles
Uneven skin tone
Superficial pigmentation
Overall skin brightness
Pigmented spots may temporarily darken before gradually flaking off as the skin renews.
Why Combination Pigmentation Laser Treatments Are Often Recommended
Many patients have both superficial and deep pigmentation simultaneously. Using only one treatment method may not fully address the condition.
Combination treatment allows:
Nd:YAG laser to treat deeper pigment
IPL to clear surface discolouration
More comprehensive pigmentation improvement
Treatment plans are customised based on skin type, pigment depth, and pigmentation triggers.
Pigmentation treatment requires gradual improvement to ensure safety and reduce recurrence risk.
Typical Treatment Plan:
6 to 10 sessions recommended
Sessions spaced approximately 2–4 weeks apart
- Maintenance treatments may be advised
Gradual treatment helps minimise rebound pigmentation and supports stable long-term results.
Pigmentation laser treatments generally involve minimal downtime. Temporary post-treatment effects may include:
Mild redness lasting several hours to one day
Slight warmth or tingling sensation
Darkening of pigmented spots before fading
Most patients resume daily activities immediately following treatment.
When performed by experienced professionals using appropriate settings:
Nd:YAG laser is considered safe for darker skin types
Risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is low
Proper skin assessment is essential for safe treatment selection
Strict sun protection and post-treatment care play a key role in maintaining results.
Following recommended aftercare helps optimise results and reduce recurrence. Recommended care includes:
Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 sun protection
Avoiding excessive heat exposure such as saunas or steam rooms
Using prescribed medical skincare
Avoiding picking or scrubbing treated areas
Pigmentation Treatment Consultation in Melbourne
At J Medical Aesthetics, pigmentation treatment plans are customised based on skin type, pigmentation depth, and individual triggers. Our team performs detailed skin analysis to design personalised treatment plans that improve skin clarity while supporting long-term pigmentation control.