Most people are born having birthmarks and some are born with more distinct pigmented lesions, such as café-au-lait spots, that can be cosmetically upsetting if located on the face, neck, or another noticeable area. Café-au-lait birthmarks are caused by an excess of melanin pigment in the skin cells of a certain area of skin.
In the past, the remedy for these birthmarks was merely to cover them with make-up. More recently, however, dermabrasion and cryosurgery, along with other various treatments have been tested, but have been noted as treatments with a high scarring risk and have been known to leave unsightly white areas with no pigment at all.
A laser produces a beam of concentrated and intense light. The light energy is absorbed by the targeted pigmented cells and eliminates the cells containing the excess pigment, allowing new, "normal" skin cells to grow in the area.
While typical treatments for pigmented lesions will only require 1 or 2 sessions, café-au-lait birthmarks usually require more sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, with very minimal downtime. The laser pulse has been described as feeling like a rubber band snap, thus, no anesthesia is required. However, topical anesthesia is available for patients who request it.
Side effects are very minimal. Immediately after a treatment, the area may be slightly red and tender, but these side effects last a very short time. However, should the tenderness persist, the application of a cooling agent, such as an ointment or ice pack, is recommended. This procedure is usually performed in the comfort of your doctor's office. Typically, you may resume normal activities and return to work immediately after your laser treatment. Should you be interested in this or should you have any other concerns or conditions please contact us and we will direct you to a doctor near you.
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