Laser Removal of Pigmented Lesions in Asians

In the Asian population, skin pigmentation disorders are common. They are also more prone to developing post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation, whether after surgery, injury, or infection.

It is common of Asians to seek treatment for these pigmented lesions. In the past, surgery or other forms of invasive treatments were the only choice. However, with the advancement in laser technology, it is now possible to effectively and safely treat these skin pigmentation disorders. What these lasers are able to do is to treat the pigmented lesions without damaging or destroying the surrounding tissue.

Pigmented lesions are classified based upon where the pigmented lesions are located: epidermis, dermis, or both. For appropriate treatment, the right laser must be utilized.

First, let's talk about the laser that don't work for the treatment of pigmented lesions. Carbon dioxide lasers (10,600 nm) and Er:YAG lasers (2,940 nm) lasers are non-pigment selective lasers which are used for laser skin resurfacing in the treatment of wrinkles and scars. These lasers may help to remove certain superficial pigmented lesions, but are not the best choice.

Pigment selective lasers (non-ablative) are more accurate and precise in the treatment of pigmented lesions which much less risk of developing post-inflammatory pigmentation. According to the studies available, the lasers below provide the best option for treatment of pigmented lesions:

• Q-Switched Ruby Laser (694nm, 25-40 nanoseconds)
• Q-Switched Alexandrite (755nm 50-100 nanoseconds)
• Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser (532nm, and 1064nm 5-10 nanoseconds)
• Pulse-dye laser (585/595 nm, 1.5 msec)
• IPL (515/200 nm)

Choosing the right laser and wavelength is very important in the appropriate treatment of pigmented lesions. In our next article, we will outline why the use of short-pulse lasers are important in the treatment of pigmented lesions.

If you have pigmented lesions on your skin, call Pristine Laser Center at 407-494-0404 for a consultation. We will discuss treatment options and answer any questions which you may have.