IPL for Pigmentation

At Richmond House Beauty we use Lynton IPL, a medical-grade light-based treatment to treat pigmented lesions such as sunspots, age spots and freckles and to improve the tone and appearance of sun-damaged skin.

This photo rejuvenation treatment also stimulates the natural production of collagen within the body, which is important for firmer and more youthful-looking skin.

What is pigmentation?

Our skin gets its colour from a pigment called melanin, which is made by our melanocyte cells.

Pigmented lesions such as sunspots, age spots and freckles are caused by overactive pigmented cells triggered by excessive sun exposure, age, hereditary factors or hormones.

Pigmentation can occur on the face, hands, arms, shoulders and chest. You may notice your pigmentation becomes more apparent in the summer months; this is your skin’s response to an increase in sun exposure.

What pigmented lesions can be treated?

  • Lentigines (age spots or liver spots)
  • Solar Lentigines (sunspots, commonly on the face and backs of hands)
  • Ephelides (freckles)
  • Seborrheic keratoses (benign, wart-like, pigmented growths)

How does IPL pigmentation treatment work?

During the IPL treatment, light is released in short pulses that are readily absorbed by the high concentration of melanin found within pigmented lesions.

The rapid absorption of light energy heats the melanin and causes the destruction of the melanin-rich cells.

Pigmentation will initially darken before fading and “flaking” away within 1 to 2 weeks following treatment.

IPL Pigmentation Treatment FAQs

What pigmented lesions cannot be treated?
  • Moles
  • Possible malignant lesions
  • Post-inflammatory pigmentation
  • Melasma

The pigmented marks that respond the best are superficial lesions such as those caused by sun damage (sun spots, age spots) and freckles.

After treatment, the pigmented lesion often darkens and forms a thin micro crust. Typically this micro crust and the underlying pigmentation will flake away within 1 to 2 weeks.

Generally, subsequent treatments are approximately every 4 to 6 weeks and typically 1 to 3 sessions are required.

Following treatment you should wear an SPF of 30 or greater, wear a hat when outside in the sun and minimise sun tanning in order to prevent recurrence.