Hyperpigmentation occurs when there is an overproduction of melanin in skin. Melanin is responsible for skin color, and is produced by cells called melanocytes. Several factors can lead to hyperpigmentation:

1. Sun Exposure: UV rays stimulate melanocytes to produce more melanin, leading to tanning or sun spots.
2. Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy (Melasma or “mask of pregnancy”), birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy can trigger increased melanin production.
3. Inflammation and Injury: Acne, eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions can leave dark spots after healing (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).
4. Skin Injuries: Cuts, burns, friction, or skin trauma can cause hyperpigmentation during the healing process.
5. Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals are genetically prone to develop hyperpigmentation.
6. Medications: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs or antimalarial medications, can cause changes in skin pigmentation.

Managing and preventing hyperpigmentation involves sun protection (using sunscreen daily), topical treatments include retinoids or hydroquinone, chemical peels, laser therapy, or in severe cases, dermatological procedures. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

Cynosure’s PicoSure laser is a type of picosecond laser that is used to treat various skin concerns, including pigmentation issues like hyperpigmentation. Here’s how it works:

1. Picosecond Technology: The PicoSure laser delivers ultra-short pulses of energy (picoseconds) to the skin. These pulses are extremely fast, much quicker than traditional lasers, and which typically use nanosecond pulses.
2. Targeting Melanin: The laser energy is specifically absorbed by melanin. In areas of hyperpigmentation, such as sun spots, age spots, or melasma patches, there is an excess of melanin. The laser breaks down the melanin particles into smaller fragments. Once fragmented, the body’s immune system and natural processes help to clear away the melanin particles from the treated area. Over time, this results in a lightening or reduction of the pigmented spots.

The PicoSure laser is designed to be precise, targeting only the pigmented areas without causing significant damage to the surrounding skin. This precision helps minimize the risk of side effects like scarring or changes in skin texture. Depending on the severity of the pigmentation and individual response to treatment, multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results. Typically, treatments are spaced several weeks apart to allow the skin to heal and the body to remove the fragmented pigment.

Cynosure PicoSure laser is a wonderful choice for treating pigmentation issues because of its effectiveness, minimal downtime, and ability to treat a variety of skin types and conditions.