If your skin is dull, discoloured, or generally looks unhealthy, skin lightening may be the solution.
But the prospect of undergoing any skin treatment may make some people feel nervous, depending on the technique used. They might worry that their skin will look worse when they leave the clinic, or that they will open themselves up to potentially negative side effects.
Is there cause for concern with these treatments? What benefits do they offer?
In this post, I’ll explore what skin lightening involves, what options are available, the possible side effects, and why these treatments are ultimately safe when performed properly.
What are Skin Lightening Treatments?
Skin lightening treatments are designed to create a brighter, more even skin tone. They can improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation and other forms of skin discoloration to leave skin looking healthier.
Different techniques can be used to lighten skin. This may involve delivering vitamins and nutrients directly into the bloodstream via an IV drip, using a laser to destroy affected skin, or applying a chemical peel to reveal healthier skin.
What Skin Lightening Treatments Does VBeauty Spa Offer?
Multiple skin-lightening solutions are available, catering to various issues and goals. At VBeauty Spa, we provide:
Glutathione IV Therapy
Glutathione is an antioxidant composed of three amino acids:
- Glycine
- Cysteine
- Glutamic acid
Glutathione is important for repairing tissue, producing proteins required by the body, and promoting proper function of the immune system. VBeauty Spa’s glutathione IV therapy injects the antioxidant directly into your bloodstream for maximum absorption.
It’s much faster and more effective than taking an oral supplement, as that must pass through the digestive system (which reduces absorption). Our glutathione treatment is a powerful way to lighten and brighten the skin and for treating hyperpigmentation. It reduces melanin to help create a more even, clearer, lighter skin tone.
Lumecca IPL Laser Treatment
Lumecca is an intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment designed to:
- Improve skin texture
- Stimulate collagen production for stronger, firmer skin
- Reduce redness
- Treat hyperpigmentation
Lumecca’s light generates enough heat to destroy pigmented tissue without harming the surrounding skin, as it only targets brown and red areas.
This is the most effective laser treatment available, and it works quickly: just one or two sessions can create stunning results. Another advantage of Lumecca is that it’s safe for every skin tone.
Lumecca is primarily used for lightening skin on the face, but it’s also suitable for treating the neck, shoulders, chest, hands, arms, and legs.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels applied to the face lighten skin by removing the top layers and revealing the new, healthy skin beneath. They’re a non-invasive solution for addressing common skin issues, including hyperpigmentation, sun damage, wrinkles, scarring, and more.
At VBeauty Spa, I use the Glow Peel from AlumierMD. This provides deep exfoliation to target hyperpigmentation and fine lines, rejuvenating the skin with lasting results.
Are These Treatments More Harmful Than Beneficial?
Ultimately, no. When performed by trained and experienced professionals such as myself, skin-lightening treatments are safe. Using these technologies, techniques, and products responsibly will create outstanding results, clearly enhancing the natural beauty of your skin.
If you want to lighten your skin, it’s vital that you only choose a reputable spa with the equipment, training, and hands-on experience to perform treatments safely. At VBeauty Spa, I’ll take the time to discuss your goals, expectations, and needs in detail to provide you with the best patient experience.
Every treatment carries certain risks, which I’ll explore below, but we’ll discuss these during your consultation to help you make a fully informed decision.
What are the Risks of Skin Lightening Treatments?
Booking a treatment to lighten your skin can be daunting. When you start researching your options, you’re sure to look into the risks that come with chemical peels and other methods.
Understanding the possible side effects is one of the most important steps in choosing a treatment to improve your skin. But it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the issues that may occur, even if they’re unlikely to affect you.
I’ll explain what you need to know about side effects in your consultation, with personalized information based on your skin type, skin conditions, and other factors. But here’s an overview of the potential effects to consider:
Glutathione IV
The glutathione IV treatment is generally safe, but it’s NOT recommended for people with liver disease.
You may experience mild discomfort when the needle is inserted into your skin, which can be a source of anxiety if you’re nervous about injections. However, I’ll make sure the process is as comfortable as possible to set your mind at ease. Once the treatment begins, you can sit back and relax.
Lumecca IPL
The Lumecca IPL treatment may cause the following temporary side effects:
- Warm, slightly sunburned feel in treated skin
- Mild swelling
- Bruising
- Brown pigmentation grows darker for a few days before it flakes off or is absorbed by the skin
Proper aftercare is a must to help the skin recover and look at its best. Wear non-chemical sunscreen to protect skin from UV rays, and avoid vigorous exercise (especially swimming) for 24 hours or more.
Chemical Peel
When performed by an expert, a chemical peel should lead to minimal discomfort and require little downtime. A cold compress or Advil/Tylenol can be used to reduce any temporary pain.
Possible side effects include:
- Dryness
- Irritation
- Swelling
- Redness
Hyperpigmentation and breakouts can become more visible briefly, and you can remove peeling skin gently. Avoid picking or pulling at affected skin, though.
Go makeup-free for one or two weeks after the treatment, and make sure you stay hydrated to keep treated skin healthy. Apply moisturizer to aid hydration further.
Schedule Your Free Consultation at VBeauty Spa Today
I’m ready to discuss your skin-lightening treatment at VBeauty Spa and help you choose the best option for your goals.
To book a free consultation for glutathione IV therapy, Lumecca IPL treatment, chemical peel, and other treatments at our Toronto spa, get in touch with me today.