Hyperpigmentation is an umbrella term for darker skin discolourations caused by increased deposition of melanin. Melanin is the body's own pigment that gives our skin its colour. If too much of it is produced in certain areas or it is unevenly distributed, visible dark spots develop. These may be small and localised or may affect larger areas. Typical forms of hyperpigmentation are sun spots, age spots and dark discolourations following inflammation, for example after acne or minor skin injuries. During the examination, Lecturer Dr. Matiasek pays close attention to which form of pigmentation disorder is present, as the appropriate treatment is derived from this.

Melasma is a particular form of hyperpigmentation. Unlike classic pigment spots, melasma usually appears over larger areas and symmetrically. It is particularly common on the cheeks, the forehead, the upper lip or the chin. The discolourations often appear brownish to grey-brown and may be more noticeable depending on how the light falls. Lecturer Dr. Matiasek sees melasma primarily in women, often in connection with hormonal changes. This is why it is often referred to in everyday language as the so-called mask of pregnancy. Melasma can be more stubborn than other pigment spots and usually requires a particularly well-coordinated treatment concept.

The causes of pigmentation disorders are varied. In most cases, several factors interact. The most common triggers include:

• UV radiation from the sun or sunbeds
• Hormonal changes, for example due to pregnancy or hormonal contraception
• Inflammation of the skin, for example due to acne
• Skin irritation or injuries
• Genetic predisposition

UV radiation is considered the greatest risk factor. It stimulates melanin production and can intensify existing pigment spots.

Melasma often develops deeper in the skin than classic pigment spots. Treatment is therefore often more demanding and requires a well-thought-out therapy concept.

The treatment always depends on the type of pigmentation disorder involved and how pronounced it is. Superficial pigment spots can often be improved more easily than deeper or hormonally influenced changes. With melasma in particular, patience is important, as the skin often reacts more sensitively here and the therapy should be carefully planned. Lecturer Dr. Matiasek relies on modern, skin-friendly procedures to reduce pigment deposits and at the same time improve skin quality. One particularly interesting option here is treatment with the LAVIEEN Thulium Laser.

How does laser treatment for hyperpigmentation and melasma work?

The LAVIEEN Thulium Laser works with a wavelength of 1927 nm and acts primarily in the upper layers of the skin, where many pigment deposits are located. The fractional delivery of energy creates very fine micro-pulses in the skin, which stimulate skin renewal and can gradually break down excess pigment. At the same time, the treatment improves the skin structure, refines the complexion and can contribute to a fresher, more even skin tone. Lecturer Dr. Matiasek uses the thulium laser to treat pigmentation disorders as gently as possible without placing unnecessary strain on the skin. This is particularly important in the case of melasma, as overly aggressive procedures may in some circumstances even make the problem worse.

Before every laser treatment, Lecturer Dr. Matiasek holds a detailed consultation with you. He examines your skin closely, assesses the type and depth of the pigmentation disorder and discusses with you which treatment makes sense for you. An individual treatment plan is then drawn up. On the day of treatment, the skin is thoroughly cleansed. Depending on the intensity of the treatment, a numbing cream may be applied beforehand. The laser treatment itself usually takes only about 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, many patients mainly feel warmth and a slight tingling. After the treatment, the skin is soothed and cared for with suitable skincare products.

After the treatment, the skin is temporarily more sensitive. Slight redness or a mild feeling of tightness is normal and usually subsides quickly. Above all, consistent sun protection is important, as UV radiation can intensify pigmentation disorders again. Lecturer Dr. Matiasek therefore recommends a high sun protection factor and avoiding direct sun in the first few weeks after the treatment. In addition, the skin should be supported with moisturising and soothing skincare products. The products best suited to this are available at the practice. You should initially avoid irritating active ingredients, intensive peels, saunas and strong heat.

Pigmentation disorders generally require several sessions, as the skin only improves gradually. How many treatments make sense depends on your skin condition, the depth of the pigment and the type of discolouration. Lecturer Dr. Matiasek plans the treatment individually. There are usually around two to four weeks between sessions so that the skin can regenerate sufficiently. With melasma in particular, a careful approach is especially important in order to lighten the skin evenly and avoid unnecessary irritation.

Many patients notice after just the first few days that their skin looks fresher and more even. The actual improvement in pigmentation then continues to develop over several weeks. The complexion can appear clearer, calmer and more balanced. Lecturer Dr. Matiasek attaches importance to natural results. The skin should not look artificially altered, but healthy, well cared for and harmonious.

Treatment with the thulium laser is considered gentle and well tolerated overall. Nevertheless, as with any aesthetic treatment, temporary skin reactions may occur. Immediately after the session, slight redness, a feeling of warmth, a slight burning sensation or a certain dryness of the skin are possible. In the days that follow, fine micro-crusts may form while the skin renews itself. These reactions are normal and usually subside within a short time.

Lecturer Dr. Matiasek informs his patients in detail about possible side effects before the treatment and takes care to adjust the laser parameters carefully to the individual skin type. With melasma in particular, a careful approach is important, as excessive irritation of the skin may in some circumstances worsen the pigmentation disorder. Consistent aftercare with high sun protection is also important, as UV radiation can increase the risk of new discolourations.

Treatment with the thulium laser is suitable for many patients who would like a more even, clearer and fresher-looking complexion. It is particularly useful for superficial pigmentation disorders, sun-damaged skin and an uneven skin tone. The treatment may also be an option for melasma, especially when the pigment changes lie rather superficially in the skin or when there are both superficial and somewhat deeper components.

If you are bothered by dark discolourations, an uneven complexion or stubborn melasma, Lecturer Dr. Matiasek will be happy to inform you personally about the possibilities of modern laser treatment in Vienna. Arrange your appointment now.