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info@scarsandlasers.co.nz
15 Green Lane East, Remuera, Auckland, New Zealand
Monday - Friday: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Nevus of Ota is a benign skin condition characterised by bluish-grey or brown patches, typically appearing on one side of the face around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks. It is caused by increased pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the dermis and is more common in individuals with darker skin tones. Having a Naevus of Ota, while medically harmless, can be a significant source of emotional distress for individuals due to its noticeable appearance.
The exact cause of Naevus of Ota is still unknown, though it is thought to be linked to abnormalities in melanin-producing cells. Approximately half of the cases are present at birth, which is why it is classified as a birthmark. However, Naevus of Ota can also develop during adolescence or early adulthood.
Naevus of Ota results from an accumulation of melanocytes within the dermis, the deeper layer of the skin. These cells overproduce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, leading to the characteristic bluish appearance due to the Tyndall effect, where light scatters through the dermal layers. Treatment targets these deep melanocytes using laser therapy, which breaks down excess pigment without damaging surrounding tissues. While multiple sessions are often required to achieve the desired results, these treatments can greatly reduce the visibility of the nevus, providing emotional relief and enhancing quality of life for those affected.
(Available on Excel V and Excel V Plus)
Best for
Mild cases or isolated vessels.
How It Works
The long-pulse Nd:YAG laser emits energy at a wavelength absorbed by haemoglobin in blood vessels. This heat causes the targeted vessels to collapse, effectively treating both surface red veins and deeper blue veins.
Results
Treated vessels may disappear immediately or gradually fade over several weeks.
(Candela VBeam Perfecta, Excel V, Excel V Plus, Sciton BBL)
Best for
More severe cases or large areas of visible facial veins and redness, particularly in rosacea.
How It Works
This approach layers multiple vascular-targeting technologies in one session, including:
Results
Effectively reduces visible veins, diffuse redness, and facial flushing commonly seen in rosacea.
(Candela VBeam Perfecta, Excel V, Excel V Plus, Sciton BBL)
Best for
Stimulating collagen and vascular remodelling to reduce persistent skin redness.
How It Works
Often recommended in combination with vascular laser or BBL treatments to enhance skin healing, texture, and redness reduction.
You may need several laser treatments to restore the skin to its normal colour. In some cases, Nevus of Ota may rarely return after treatment, so additional procedures might be necessary in the future.
If you have an unusual bluish-grey or brownish discolouration on your skin, we recommend scheduling an evaluation with one of our board-certified dermatologists to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Laser treatments such as PicoWay, can significantly lighten or eliminate the pigmentation in most cases. However, complete removal will require multiple sessions and results can vary based on skin type and pigmentation depth.
Most patients require 4-6 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve noticeable improvement. The exact number depends on the size, location, and intensity of the pigmentation.
Although lasers are highly effective for skin pigmentation, they are not typically used on the sclera due to the delicate nature of the eye tissue and the risk of damage. This needs to be discussed with your specialist dermatologist.
