Treating Skin Splotchiness/Redness

Laser therapy is one of the most exciting treatments for removing unwanted pigments in the skin such as melasma, age spots, freckles and tattoos. Lasers work by emitting a specialised light that is passed through the skin and preferentially absorbed by its target, be it an unwanted hair, vein, or in this case, the unwanted pigment (either natural - melanin or tattoo inks) in the skin. The laser causes the pigments to break up and disappear, leaving you with smooth, clear youthful skin. There are several lasers available that work remarkably well in treating unwanted pigmentation.

Dr Tan offers a wide variety of laser/light sources to treat skin splotchiness, freckles, sunspots, unwanted pigmentation and tattoos addressing the widest variety of patients and situations. Each option performs best for different types of patients and needs. Dr Tan will assess the laser that is best for you.

Depending on the type of pigment in your skin, freckles, and age spots can be treated in as little as one to two sessions. When dealing with tattoos, the average, professional tattoo requires more than 6-8 treatments, while amateur tattoos require more than 3-4 treatments, all spaced approximately at least 6 weeks apart. The number of treatments depends on the amount and type of ink used, and the depth of the ink in the skin. Most people describe the treatment feeling like a rubber band snap. You may be given a topical anesthetic cream to numb the area to be treated. Any discomfort can be eased with the application of cool compresses. After treatment, you may immediately return to your normal activities.

Melasma is a common condition affecting many women and some men. This condition is commonly seen during and after pregnancy and amongst women taking birth control pills. The treatment of melasma is more complicated and may require the use of a variety of lasers, laser-like technologies and other treatment approaches such as peels. The Fraxel laser is a safe new method of improving treatment resistant melasma in most patients.

Most unwanted pigmentary problems do not return. However, some birthmarks may recur after several months or years. Treatments can be repeated to achieve the desired results. Melasma may need ongoing periodic treatments.