Laser Pigmentation Removal Calgary | PicoWay, IPL & Peels for Spots & Melasma - Derma Lesions Medispa Laser Pigmentation Removal Calgary

Laser Pigmentation Removal Calgary | PicoWay, IPL & Peels for Spots & Melasma

Laser Pigmentation Removal in Calgary Removal in Calgary | PicoWay, IPL & Peels

Clear dark spots, melasma, and uneven tone with laser pigment removal in Calgary. Our medically supervised team uses Health Canada-licensed PicoWay, PicoSure, Q-switched Nd:YAG, Limelight IPL, and medical-grade peels to safely treat all skin types (I-VI). We tailor protocols for skin of colour and melasma to reduce downtime and PIH risk. Book a consultation to get a personalized plan, transparent pricing, and before/after photos to track results.

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Or call our Calgary clinic: 587 433 4726

Understanding Pigmentation

What Is Laser Pigment Removal? Causes & How It Works

A Targeted Solution for Discoloured Skin

Pigmentation is caused by an overproduction of melanin, often triggered by sun exposure or hormones. Laser pigment removal works by using a concentrated light beam to break down unwanted melanin into tiny particles, which are then naturally eliminated by the body.

Laser pigment removal treats dark spots and patches caused by excess melanin in your skin. These spots develop from sun exposure, hormones, aging, or inflammation. Our treatments work by breaking down melanin clusters or accelerating skin cell turnover.

How lasers target melanin (Q-switched 1064/532, picosecond)

Advanced lasers like Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm and Pico Genesis shatter pigment particles into tiny fragments. Your body then naturally removes these fragments through your lymphatic system.

When IPL (Limelight) and peels are preferred

For surface-level spots and diffuse sun damage, Limelight IPL heats and lifts pigment to the skin's surface where it flakes off. Chemical peels excel for overall brightening and texture improvement.

Conditions We Treat

Pigmentation We Treat in Calgary

Fading Unwanted Spots and Patches

We specialize in treating a wide range of pigmentary concerns, including sun spots, age spots, freckles, and melasma. Our advanced technologies can effectively fade these marks to reveal a clearer, more uniform skin tone.

Sun spots/age spots (solar lentigines)

These flat, brown spots appear on sun-exposed areas like your face, hands, and shoulders. Solar lentigines respond excellently to laser treatments, often clearing in 1-3 sessions.

Freckles

Light brown spots that darken with sun exposure can be reduced with Q-switched 532 nm (KTP) lasers or IPL treatments.

Melasma (face-focused protocols) (face-focused protocols)

Melasma creates symmetrical patches on the face, often triggered by hormones or sun. This challenging condition requires gentle, specialized protocols combining tranexamic acid, hydroquinone, and low-energy laser treatments. Note: IPL can worsen melasma in some cases; melasma-first approach favors topicals, peels, and low-fluence 1064 nm lasers.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Dark marks left after acne, injuries, or procedures. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) responds well to fractional non-ablative laser (1927 thulium, 1550 erbium-glass) combined with tyrosinase inhibitors.

Epidermal vs. dermal pigment (Wood's lamp, dermal pigment (Wood's lamp, dermoscopy)

Surface pigment clears faster than deep dermal pigment. We use Wood's lamp and dermoscopy to assess melanin depth and customize your treatment.

Our Technology

Treatment Options: PicoWay/PicoSure vs Q-Switch vs IPL vs Fractional

The Right Tool for Every Type of Pigment

We offer a range of cutting-edge technologies to customize your treatment. Pico lasers use ultra-fast pulses to shatter pigment with minimal heat, while Q-Switch, IPL, and Fractional lasers offer their own unique advantages for specific types of pigmentation.

Picosecond lasers (PicoWay, PicoSure, Pico Genesis)

These ultra-fast PicoSure and PicoWay laser pulses shatter pigment with minimal heat, reducing downtime and PIH risk. Ideal for all skin types. Typical downtime: 3-7 days of darkening/flaking.

Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064/532 nm (KTP)

Gold standard for discrete dark spots. The 1064 nm wavelength safely treats skin of colour while 532 nm targets superficial pigment. Typical downtime: 5-10 days of darkening/crusting.

Limelight IPL for diffuse sun damage

IPL treats diffuse sun damage and redness simultaneously. Best for lighter skin tones with widespread pigmentation. Typical downtime: 3-7 days of mild darkening. Caution: IPL can worsen melasma in some patients.

Fractional non-ablative 1927/1550

These non-invasive lasers create microscopic treatment zones, stimulating collagen and elastin while clearing pigment. Typical downtime: 5-7 days of bronzing/peeling.

Chemical peels and medical-grade products

Medical-grade peels containing azelaic acid, kojic acid, or glycolic acid exfoliate pigmented cells and brighten skin. Medical-grade products with retinoids, vitamin C, and broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50 enhance and maintain results.

RF microneedling (adjunct for melasma and texture)

Combines radiofrequency with microneedling to improve texture. Caution: Heat-based devices can trigger melasma in some patients; if used, conservative settings and strict pigment control are essential.

The Benefits

Benefits of Pigmentation Removal

A Brighter, More Even Complexion

Beyond fading spots, pigmentation removal can improve your skin's overall texture and radiance. The treatment helps to reverse the visible signs of sun damage and aging, leaving you with a refreshed and youthful glow.

Even Skin Tone

Clearer, more even skin tone

Pigment Correction

Reduced appearance of age spots and sun damage

Enhanced Radiance

Improved skin texture and radiance

Renewed Confidence

Boosted confidence in your appearance

Lasting Results

Long-lasting results with proper maintenance

All Skin Types

Safe for all skin types with appropriate protocols

Candidate Suitability

Who's a Candidate? (Fitzpatrick I-VI, Skin of Colour)

Safe and Effective for a Wide Range of Skin Types

Modern laser technologies, particularly Pico lasers, can safely and effectively treat all Fitzpatrick skin types (I-VI). Our team is expertly trained to create a safe treatment plan that minimizes the risk of side effects, even for those with skin of colour.

Safety protocols , patch testing, , patch testing, contraindications

We assess your Fitzpatrick skin type during consultation to select the safest, most effective approach. Darker skin requires specialized protocols to prevent hypopigmentation. Professional assessment with Wood's lamp determines pigment depth. Not suitable if you're pregnant, taking photosensitizing medications, recently tanned, have active infections, or using isotretinoin. We perform a test spot or patch test to ensure optimal settings and safety, especially for melasma or darker skin.

Ready to Clear Your Pigmentation?

Our specialists create personalized treatment plans for all skin types

Your Treatment Journey

Process, Sessions & Downtime

A Simple Path to Clear Skin

Your treatment process will begin with a thorough skin analysis to determine the best approach for you. The sessions are quick, and downtime is minimal, allowing you to return to your daily routine immediately after.

Consultation, photos, and test spot

Your journey starts with a thorough consultation including skin analysis and before and after photos for tracking progress. We may perform a test spot to ensure optimal settings.

Comfort measures and session length

Treatment takes 15-45 minutes. We cleanse your skin, apply protective eyewear, and deliver precise laser or IPL pulses to target areas. Most patients describe a warm snapping sensation. We use cooling devices and topical anesthetic when needed for comfort.

Expected darkening, microcrusting, return to activities

Expect temporary darkening of spots for 3-10 days before they flake off. Most people resume normal activities immediately with makeup coverage if desired.

Aftercare & Recovery

Aftercare, Downtime & Recovery

Your Guide to Optimal Healing

Immediately after your treatment, you may experience some redness or temporary darkening of the treated spots. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including sun protection, to ensure your skin heals beautifully and you get the best possible results.

Protect Your Results

Ice/cool compresses for 10-15 minutes as needed
SPF 50+ daily and reapply every 2 hours outdoors
Avoid heat, saunas, intense workouts for 24-48 hours
No exfoliants/retinoids until flaking resolves (3-7 days)
Use prescribed tyrosinase inhibitors as directed

Apply ice packs for comfort and use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50 religiously. This is crucial for preventing new pigmentation. Use prescribed tyrosinase inhibitors and gentle skincare to minimize PIH risk, especially important for darker skin tones.

Treatment Timeline

Number of Sessions & Timeline

A Phased Approach for Lasting Results

The number of sessions required depends on the type and depth of your pigmentation. Most clients will need a series of 2-6 treatments, spaced a few weeks apart, to achieve their desired outcome.

Typical ranges by concern (isolated spots vs. melasma)

Sun spots often clear in 1-3 sessions, while melasma may require 4-8 treatments plus ongoing maintenance.

Treatment intervals (3-6 weeks) and maintenance treatments

Sessions are spaced 3-6 weeks apart. Maintenance treatments every 3-6 months help preserve results.

When to reassess or combine modalities

We reassess after 3 sessions and may combine treatments for stubborn pigmentation.

The Results

Expected Results & Longevity

A Clearer Complexion That Lasts

You will see a gradual lightening of your pigmented spots with each session. With proper aftercare and sun protection, the results of your pigmentation removal can be long-lasting.rmness on the abdomen, or loose skin on the arms and knees.

When results appear (immediate darkening (immediate darkening then clearing vs. gradual fade)

Spots darken initially then flake off within 1-2 weeks. Some pigmentation fades gradually over 4-8 weeks.

Durability of outcomes and how to maintain them and how to maintain them (SPF, skincare)

Results can last years with diligent sun protection and proper skincare routine.

Melasma-specific considerations and considerations and chronicity

Melasma requires ongoing management as it can recur with triggers like sun, heat, and hormones.

Cost and Pricing

Cost in Calgary, Pricing & Packages

Transparent Pricing for Accessible Treatment

The cost of your treatment will be determined by the specific modalities and number of sessions included in your personalized plan. We offer clear pricing and convenient packages to help make your journey to clearer skin more manageable.

Factors that influence price (area size, device type, number of sessions)

Your final price is personalized and depends on the specific area being treated, the technology used, and the number of sessions required to achieve your goals.

Pricing depends on treatment area, technology used, and number of sessions needed. Single spots start at $150-300 per session.

Per-session vs. series recommendations

For optimal and lasting results, we highly recommend a series of treatments, which are offered at a lower per-session rate.

Package deals offer 15-20% savings. Most patients benefit from 3-6 session packages.

Pricing Includes:

Our transparent pricing covers your initial consultation, the full treatment session, and essential post-procedure care to ensure your experience is comprehensive.

Consultation and standardized photos
Test spot (if indicated)
Post-care kit and follow-up review
Package savings and financing options

Financing options available. Packages include post-care products and follow-up assessments.

Safety & Risks

Safety & Risks (PIH, hypopigmentation, melasma rebound)

A Safe, Medically Supervised Treatment

While safe in expert hands, some treatments can carry a risk of PIH or hypopigmentation, especially for darker skin tones. Our team is trained to minimize these risks and will guide you to the right treatment to avoid issues like melasma rebound.

Common effects: redness, swelling, temporary darkening

Mild redness and swelling resolve within hours to days. Temporary darkening is part of the clearing process.

Less common: crusting, blistering, PIH/hypopigmentation

Rare complications include crusting, blistering, or changes in pigmentation. Proper protocols minimize these risks.

Melasma-specific considerations, rebound risk, and IPL cautions

Aggressive treatment can worsen melasma. We use gentle, conservative approaches to prevent rebound hyperpigmentation. IPL can worsen melasma in some cases.

Our Expertise

Why Choose Our Calgary Clinic

Unparalleled Expertise and Medical-Grade Technology

We are a CPSA-supervised clinic committed to your safety and satisfaction. We use Health Canada-licensed devices and a personalized approach to ensure you receive the most effective treatment for your specific needs.

Personalized protocols for skin of colour and for skin of colour and melasma

We specialize in safe, effective treatments for all skin tones, including challenging melasma cases. Our clinic operates under CPSA medical supervision.

Health Canada-licensed devices and evidence-based devices and evidence-based skincare

All our devices are Health Canada-licensed devices and we use evidence-based protocols.

Convenient Calgary location, evening location, evening appointments, free parking

Central Calgary location with evening appointments and free parking for your convenience.

Our Providers

Provider Qualifications in Calgary

Your Trusted Skincare Experts

Our team of certified professionals has advanced training in laser and aesthetic treatments. We are dedicated to continuous education to ensure we provide the highest standard of care in a safe and professional environment.

Board-certified/board-eligible dermatologist or qualified dermatologist or qualified medical professional

Medical Leadership

Choose providers supervised by board-certified dermatologists or qualified medical professionals with laser training.

Clinic compliance with Canadian regulations with Canadian regulations (Health Canada) and CPSA standards

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure your clinic follows Canadian clinic regulations and College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) standards.

Laser safety certification and experience and experience with diverse skin types (I-VI)

Certified Expertise

Providers should have laser safety certification and experience treating all Fitzpatrick skin types safely.

Areas Treated

A Solution for Face and Body

We can safely and effectively treat pigmentation on various areas of the body, including the face, neck, chest, shoulders, and hands. Our technology can be customized to treat both small, specific spots and larger areas of discolouration.

Face Neck, chest, and shoulders Hands and forearms

Face (cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip)

Neck, chest, and shoulders

Hands and forearms

Treatment Comparison

Compare Options: Laser vs IPL vs Peels

Finding the Best Solution for You

We will help you understand the key differences between laser, IPL, and chemical peels. Our goal is to ensure you choose the best treatment that is both effective for your skin type and aligns with your desired downtime and budget.

Q-switched/Pico (best for discrete lentigines; minimal downtime)
IPL/Limelight (diffuse sun damage + redness; lighter skin)
Fractional 1927/1550 (texture + pigment; more downtime)
Melasma-first: topicals, peels, low-fluence 1064; avoid aggressive IPL

Pre-Treatment Preparation

Preparation Checklist (2-4 Weeks Before)

A Simple Plan for Optimal Results

To prepare your skin for treatment, we will provide a checklist that includes avoiding sun exposure and discontinuing certain skincare products. This simple preparation helps to ensure the best possible outcome.

Avoid tanning/self-tanner and stop photosensitizing products as advised

Stop tanning and certain skincare products 2-4 weeks before treatment.

Start pre-treatment skincare (e.g., tyrosinase inhibitors) if recommended

Pre-treatment products prep your skin for optimal results.

Plan around events and confirm antiviral prophylaxis if prone to cold sores

Schedule treatments with social events in mind and arrange antiviral medication if needed.

At-Home Maintenance

At-Home Skincare & Maintenance

Extending Your Results with Smart Skincare

Your journey to clearer skin doesn’t end in our clinic. We will recommend an at-home skincare regimen, including high-quality sun protection and brightening serums, to help you maintain your beautiful results long-term.

Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ and reapplication habits

Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.

Brightening agents and retinoids for maintenance

Continue using prescribed brightening products to maintain results.

Lifestyle tips to prevent recurrence (UV, heat, blue light)

Wear hats, seek shade, and consider blue light protection from screens.

Optimal Timing

Seasonality: Best Time to Treat in Calgary

The Ideal Season for Pigmentation Removal

The fall and winter months are the ideal time for pigmentation removal treatments. With less sun exposure, it is easier to protect your skin and ensure you achieve the best possible results.

Fall and winter advantages winter advantages

Calgary's long winters provide ideal conditions with less sun exposure during healing.

Year-round treatment with strict treatment with strict sun protection

Treatment possible year-round with diligent sun protection protocols.

Our Location

Calgary Service Area & Directions

Your Local Vein Treatment Destination

Our clinic is conveniently located to serve clients from across Calgary and surrounding areas. We are your trusted, local experts for professional and effective vein treatment.

Parking, transit, and nearby landmarks and nearby landmarks

Easy access with ample free parking at our Calgary clinic. We're conveniently located near major roads with good transit access.

Serving Calgary, Airdrie, Okotoks, Cochrane Airdrie, Okotoks, Cochrane

We proudly serve patients throughout the greater Calgary area including Airdrie, Okotoks, and Cochrane.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Your Top Concerns

We have compiled a list of the most common questions we receive about laser pigmentation removal. Our goal is to ensure you feel fully informed and confident about your decision, from the science behind Belkyra to your long-term results.

What types of pigmentation can be treated in Calgary clinics?

Calgary clinics treat sun spots, age spots, freckles, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation using various laser and non-laser technologies.

How does laser pigmentation removal work?

Lasers target melanin with specific wavelengths, breaking pigment into particles your body naturally removes through the lymphatic system.

What technologies are used for pigmentation removal?

Technologies include PicoWay, PicoSure, Q-switched lasers, IPL Limelight, fractional lasers, chemical peels, and medical-grade skincare products.

Who is a good candidate for pigmentation removal?

Good candidates have realistic expectations, aren’t pregnant, avoid recent tanning, and don’t use photosensitizing medications or isotretinoin.

How many sessions are needed to see results?

Most patients need 1-3 sessions for sun spots, 4-8 for melasma, spaced 3-6 weeks apart.

What is the cost of pigmentation removal in Calgary?

Costs range from $150-500 per session depending on area size and technology. Package deals offer 15-20% savings.

What is the downtime or recovery period?

Minimal downtime with temporary darkening for 3-10 days. Most resume activities immediately with makeup if desired.

Are there risks or side effects?

Common effects include temporary redness, swelling, and darkening. Rare risks include blistering, scarring, or pigment changes.

How long do results last?

Results can last years with proper sun protection. Melasma requires ongoing maintenance.

What alternatives exist for pigmentation removal?

Alternatives include prescription creams, chemical peels, microneedling, and consistent medical-grade skincare.

Are treatments safe for all skin types?

Yes, with appropriate device selection and protocols. Darker skin requires specialized approaches to prevent complications.

What qualifications should a provider have?

Look for board-certified dermatologists or medical professionals with laser certification and experience treating diverse skin types.

Is PicoWay or PicoSure better for my brown spots? How do you decide which device to use?

Both PicoWay and PicoSure effectively treat brown spots. We select devices based on your specific pigment depth, skin type, and response to test spots. PicoWay offers more wavelength options, while PicoSure has a unique Focus lens for texture improvement.

How do you minimize PIH risk for skin of colour (Fitzpatrick IV-VI)?

We use conservative settings, longer wavelengths (1064 nm), pre-treatment with tyrosinase inhibitors, proper cooling, and perform test spots. Post-treatment includes strict sun protection and anti-inflammatory care.

Is IPL safe for melasma, or should I avoid it?

IPL can worsen melasma in some patients due to heat generation. We typically recommend melasma-first approaches using topicals, chemical peels, and low-fluence Q-switched 1064 nm lasers instead of IPL.

How should I prepare before my pigmentation removal appointment?

Avoid sun exposure, stop certain products as directed, start prescribed pre-treatment skincare, and arrange transportation if needed.

Is pigmentation removal covered by insurance in Alberta?

Cosmetic pigmentation removal isn’t covered by Alberta Health Care. Some private insurance may cover medical conditions.

Ways to Find and Connect Find and Connect With Us

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Start Your Journey to Clearer Skin

Don’t let pigmentation hold you back from radiant, even-toned skin. Our Calgary clinic combines advanced technology with personalized care to deliver the results you deserve. With our experienced team, Health Canada-approved devices, and customized treatment plans, clearer skin is within reach.