Pigmented lesions

Indications: solar lentigines (sun spots), freckles, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, uneven skin tone
Duration: 15 to 30 minutes
Return to activities: immediate; small scabs may form on treated spots for a few days
Results: gradual, visible after 2 to 4 weeks
Protocol: sun spots: 1 to 3 sessions, 3 to 4 weeks apart; melasma: several gentle sessions following a personalised plan

At the practice in Bidart, near Biarritz, the HandPico picosecond laser treats sun spots and certain types of hyperpigmentation, including melasma. Thanks to its ultra-short pulses, it targets melanin while producing far less heat than conventional lasers, which limits the risk of a pigment reaction.

HOW IT WORKS

The laser delivers extremely short pulses that selectively break down melanin pigments, mainly through a mechanical (photoacoustic) rather than thermal effect. Combining picosecond and nanosecond modes allows the treatment to be adapted to the type and depth of the spot and to your skin type, while sparing the surrounding tissue.

INDICATIONS

Solar lentigines
These well-defined brown spots appear over time on sun-exposed areas: face, décolleté and hands. They are the reference indication for picosecond laser.

Freckles and localised pigmented spots
Freckles and certain localised pigmented spots can be lightened after a dermatological examination. Each lesion is assessed beforehand to confirm it is benign and to choose the most appropriate technique.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Some persistent marks left after acne or skin inflammation can be gradually improved.

MELASMA

Melasma, also known as the "mask of pregnancy", is a chronic facial hyperpigmentation triggered by sun exposure, hormones and genetic predisposition. It tends to recur and carries a risk of rebound pigmentation with conventional lasers, which heat the skin.

The HandPico picosecond laser opens up new possibilities: used at low energy over the whole area, it gradually breaks down melanin while greatly limiting the thermal effect, which reduces the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Treatment involves several gentle sessions with no downtime.

Laser treatment is always part of a comprehensive approach: strict sun protection, suitable depigmenting skincare and long-term follow-up. As melasma is a chronic condition, maintenance sessions may be needed to preserve the result.

THE TREATMENT

An initial consultation allows the lesions to be examined, the indication for laser to be confirmed and the most suitable protocol to be defined. Any suspicious or atypical lesion is assessed before any aesthetic treatment. Sessions are preferably carried out in winter, when sun exposure is lower.

During the session, the sensation is often compared to light pinpricks or the snap of a small elastic band on the skin.

AFTER THE SESSION

Treated sun spots often darken for the first few days, then small scabs form and fall off naturally within a few days. It is important not to scratch them. For melasma, aftercare is usually very discreet, with only slight temporary redness.

A repairing cream may be recommended. Daily high-SPF sun protection is essential after treatment and in the long term: laser does not prevent new spots from appearing.

RESULTS

Spots lighten gradually and results become visible after a few weeks. The number of sessions depends on the number, size, colour and age of the lesions. Results are long-lasting provided regular sun protection is maintained.

During your prior consultation, you will receive detailed information, any contraindications and a personalised quote.