Pigmentation Treatments
Pigmentation Treatment Options
At Seventh Layer, we provide two treatment options that may help address pigmentation concerns. Every individual’s skin is different, so results and suitability can vary. You can explore the options below to learn more about PicoSure Skin Toning or ICON Optimal Pulse Light, and our practitioners can guide you on which may be most appropriate for your skin.
PicoSure® Skin Toning
PicoSure® Skin Toning is a non-invasive treatment that uses picosecond laser technology. It can be used to reduce pigmentation and support the management of multiple skin concerns, including uneven skin tone, acne scars, and changes in skin texture. The procedure works by stimulating the skin’s natural processes, allowing the body to gradually replace older or damaged tissue.
To view our other treatment option, ICON™ Optimal Pulse Light (OPL) click here.
Learn More
The focus lens array PicoSure® picosecond laser platform provides a safe and precise resurfacing option, which is a less aggressive approach than the ICON™ 1540 non-ablative fractional laser treatment. Because it is less invasive, treatments can be performed more frequently.
PicoSure® produces a “photo-mechanical” rather than “photo-thermal” effect. Photo-mechanical processes can assist in breaking down pigmentation—whether introduced (e.g., tattoos) or naturally occurring (e.g., freckles, brown age spots). It delivers ultra-short picosecond pulses in trillionths of a second, which minimizes thermal impact on surrounding tissue and may reduce the risk of side effects compared to some traditional nanosecond lasers.
Treatable Conditions
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Age spots or sunspots are areas of pigmentation caused by long-term sun exposure. Although these are not active skin cancers, they can be visually noticeable. These spots may respond to PicoSure® treatment.
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Melasma is brown pigmentation often occurring on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. While the exact cause is not always known, it commonly appears during pregnancy, is more prevalent in people of African, Asian, or Middle Eastern descent, and may be triggered by hormonal changes, such as contraceptive pill use or other hormonal imbalances. Melasma can be challenging to manage and is rarely fully reversible, but it may be reduced over time. Treatment plans may combine PicoSure® with topical products designed to address pigmentation.
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PIH can occur after trauma such as acne, eczema, rash, surgery, or overly aggressive cosmetic treatments. PicoSure® may be used to assist in managing PIH. Treatments operate at lower energy to minimise further inflammation, and pigmentation may gradually improve over time.
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Acne vulgaris can result in scarring. Once active acne is managed, PicoSure® may assist in improving the appearance of acne scars and uneven skin texture.
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PicoSure® can support the management of sun-damaged skin and surface irregularities. Individual outcomes vary depending on skin type and condition.
Pricing
FAQs
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Yes. Avoid unprotected sun exposure for at least two weeks before and two weeks after treatment, as increased melanin levels can affect laser energy absorption and the treatment response.
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Makeup application post-treatment should be kept to a minimum. Cleansers used to remove makeup may irritate the skin. Sunscreen application immediately after treatment and for two weeks thereafter is recommended.
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Treatment time depends on the size of the area, but sessions generally take about one hour. Cooling is provided throughout with a Zimmer cooling machine, and after treatment the area is spritzed with thermal water and soothed with cold rollers. Post-treatment care, including calming peptides and sunscreen, may take an additional 30 minutes.
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It uses ultra-short laser pulses to break down pigment particles and support the skin’s natural repair processes. Skin gradually renews itself as damaged tissue is replaced over time.
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PicoSure® is suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Treatment settings can be adjusted to address individual concerns and skin characteristics, while helping to minimise the risk of side effects.
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The number of treatments varies depending on your skin condition, lifestyle, and goals. A personalised treatment plan will be recommended during your consultation.
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Most patients experience minimal downtime. Temporary redness, mild warmth, or slight swelling may occur and usually resolve within 24–48 hours. Pigment spots may appear darker after treatment and will gradually fade over 7–28 days.
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Changes may be observed gradually over several weeks.
Many clients notice that pigment has lightened and their skin feels healthier and brighter about 4 weeks after one treatment. Deeper or larger pigment spots may require additional treatments to achieve the desired results. Textural changes take longer to become visible and are more gradual, as normal skin cell turnover occurs over approximately 90 days.
The overall response varies depending on skin type, sun exposure, and ongoing skin care.
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The duration of response varies among individuals. Skin care, sun exposure, and lifestyle factors may influence how long results last.
Before & After 1 Picosure treatment. The after photos are taken 4 weeks post treatment. Treatment done at Seventh Layer.
Before & After 1 Picosure treatment. The after photos are taken 4 weeks post treatment. Treatment done at Seventh Layer.
Before & after 5 Picosure treatment using our Melasma Protocol - plus daily application of Jan Marini Luminate MD Serum. Treatment done at Seventh Layer.
Before & After 1 Picosure treatment. The after photos are taken 4 weeks post treatment. Treatment done at Seventh Layer.
Before & After 1 Picosure treatment. The after photos are taken 4 weeks post treatment. Treatment done at Seventh Layer.
Before & After 1 Picosure treatment. The after photos are taken 4 weeks post treatment. Treatment done at Seventh Layer.
Before & After 1 Picosure treatment. The after photos are taken 4 weeks post treatment. Treatment done at Seventh Layer.
Before & After 1 Picosure treatment. The after photos are taken 4 weeks post treatment. Treatment done at Seventh Layer.
Learn More about Picosure Skin Toning
Optimal Pulse Light (OPL) Pigmentation Reduction
The ICON™ Optimal Pulse Light (OPL) platform is a non-invasive light-based treatment that can target superficial pigmentation. It is most commonly used for concerns such as freckles, lighter sunspots, and variations in skin tone that are associated with sun exposure.
To view our other treatment option, PicoSure® Skin Toning click here.
Learn More
The ICON™ OPL device emits pulses of light energy that are absorbed by pigmented areas in the skin. This process helps to break down the pigmentation, which the body’s natural processes gradually clear over time.
Deeper or larger pigment spots may not respond as well to OPL treatment. In these cases, another technology such as PicoSure® may be more appropriate, and this will be discussed during your consultation.
Treatable Conditions
Freckles
Sun-induced pigmentation such as lighter sunspots
Areas of uneven skin tone caused by cumulative sun exposure
Pricing
FAQs
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Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising may occur in the treated area. Pigmented spots may also darken after treatment, feel slightly rough, or develop fine micro-crusting. This micro-crusting can last between 7–21 days and will gradually clear over this time. These effects are usually temporary. Post-treatment care instructions should be followed to support recovery.
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Most people are able to return to normal daily activities after treatment. Makeup and sunscreen may be applied once the skin has settled, although some redness, swelling, or temporary micro-crusting may persist for several hours to a few days. In some cases, pigment spots may take longer to clear as the micro-crusting resolves.
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The number of sessions varies depending on the individual, the area treated, and the treatment plan developed during consultation.
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People often describe the sensation as a brief snapping feeling on the skin. Most tolerate it without anaesthetic, although options for comfort can be discussed before treatment.
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Icon OPL is generally recommended for lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick I–III). For darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), PicoSure® laser technology may be considered as a more suitable option.
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Yes. Avoiding direct sun exposure for at least two weeks before treatment and two weeks after treatment is important. Increased melanin production from recent sun exposure can increase the risk of side effects such as changes in pigmentation.
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Calming products and sunscreen are applied immediately after treatment. Gentle skin care is recommended, and makeup is best avoided for 24–48 hours or until the skin has settled.
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Treatment times vary depending on the area but generally take around one hour. Additional time may be required for preparation and post-treatment care.
After one OPL treatment performed with our Cynosure/Lutronic Icon OPL machine at Seventh Layer.
Side-by-side comparison of a hand showing significant skin pigmentation and age spots before and after skin treatment.
Side-by-side comparison of a person's skin showing improvement in skin condition, with a before and after treatment image highlighting reduced freckles and blemishes.
Comparison of skin with freckles before and after treatment showing reduced freckles in the after image.
Side-by-side comparison of a woman's face showing skin with freckles on the left and clear skin after one treatment on the right, from Total Wripture Medi Spa.