05
Apr
Evening Out Pigment in Pigmented Skin
You put a lot of energy into skincare, and you want your skin to look its best, with an even, dewy glow. However, areas of hyperpigmentation can disrupt your even skin tone, damaging your confidence.
Hyperpigmentation can affect you no matter your skin color. And, in the past, it’s been more of a challenge to treat hyperpigmentation areas on darker skin tones than lighter ones, due to the less dramatic color differential between dark spots and healthy skin.
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, FASDS, Dr. Aria Vazirnia MD, MAS, FAAD, Kristin Rupert PA-C, Mary Hanna MSN, NP-BC, Riley McCarthy RN, Lani Keene LE, and the Apex Dermatology team have the expertise you can trust when it comes to dealing with pigment problems in highly pigmented, darker skin.
We provide hyperpigmentation treatment from a convenient location in Westlake Village, California. One of our most powerful tools? PIQo Toning and PIQo4 for melasma. Here’s what you need to know about this revolutionary treatment option.
New wavelengths in laser treatment for pigmentation problems
Laser treatment has become a common component of skin care routines. The PIQo4 laser takes laser skin treatment to new levels, with four different wavelengths used in the state-of-the-art technology.
With the PIQo4 laser, it’s now possible to remove or even pigmentation, including melasma and tattoos, from skin of all types and shades. This is a major breakthrough, making the benefits of laser skin treatment available more widely.
The treatment uses nanosecond pulses to break down larger and deeper areas of pigmentation and picosecond pulses to address smaller particles of pigmentation located closer to the surface of your skin.
After your treatment, your skin cells naturally and gradually flush away the broken-down particles. You may need multiple treatment sessions, spaced apart to let your skin recover, to fully reduce dark spots and areas of hyperpigmentation.
Benefits of PIQo4 laser treatment
PIQo4 treatment can be used to address skin issues including irregular pigmentation resulting from acne, sun exposure, and aging.
Treatment with the PIQo4 laser gives you results quicker than other laser systems on the market. And, the technology’s larger spot size makes it ideal for dealing with hyperpigmentation.
This type of laser treatment is highly effective for people of color, working safely on all skin tones. Older laser therapies could cause burns or scars on patients with darker skin. The PIQo4 laser represents a significant breakthrough in addressing areas of dark pigmentation on already pigmented skin.
Professional laser skin care
There are still some risks associated with laser treatment, so it’s important to work with highly skilled professionals like the team at Apex Dermatology. The Board-Certified Dermatology lead team is adept and advanced in successful and safe treatment modalities for pigmented skin including the PiQ04 laser along with Laser Genesis, Clear+Brilliant, Fraxel as well as energy-based non-lasers such as the Morpheus8.
With each treatment session you will be advised in the best skin care for your no-downtime or some downtime requiring procedure whether you have mature skin, acne-prone skin, dry skin, normal or combination in addition to your own personal pigment palette.
To learn more about how PIQo4 laser treatment could help to improve your skin tone and reduce areas of hyperpigmentation, consult with our Board-Certified Dermatology aesthetics and skin care experts today. Schedule your initial consultation appointment online or over the phone now.
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Zoë Smith, MD
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Zoë Smith, MD
Dr. Zoë Smith, MD, is a compassionate and skilled dermatologist serving the Westlake Village, CA community at Apex Dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her dermatology residency at UCLA. Dr. Zoë has authored numerous articles on hair loss, skin cancer, and autoimmune conditions, showcasing her expertise. Her research includes work at the NIH and an externship at Harvard Medical School. A leader in her field, she is recognized for her warm approach to patient care and her commitment to volunteering with children who have skin conditions.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.