Acute Localized Argyria
Our advanced PicoWay technology at Unthink Inc. can remove more than tattoos: microblading, traumatic tattoos and acute localized argyria can also be successfully treated.
What is Acute Localized Argyria?
Acute localized argyria is a benign condition caused by excessive exposure to the chemical compounds of the element silver. The characteristics of this condition are shown by a permanent blue-grey discolouration of the skin due to the absorption of silver particles. There are two different kinds of argyria: generalized which involves the discolouration of large areas of skin; and localized which is visible in limited patches. Cases of acute localized argyria are eligible to be removed with the use of our advanced laser technology, the PicoWay Laser.
How is Acute Localized Argyria caused?
Acute localized argyria is usually caused in one of three ways:
1) Occupationally: occupations such as silver refining, silver mining, manufacturing silverware, or even photographic processing can result over-exposure to silver and therefore cause acute localized argyria.
2) Topically: the use of silver sulfadiazine, a drug used in topical ointments and creams to prevent infections of second or third degree burns, can result in acute localized argyria.
3) Percutaneously: punctures through the skin using silver, such as piercings or acupuncture, can cause acute localized argyria.
How can Acute Localized Argyria be treated?
In recent years, tattoo removal lasers have been found to dramatically reduce and remove the appearance of acute localized argyria. Research of successful argyria treatments is ongoing however published studies report laser tattoo removal as promising.
At Unthink Inc. we use the advanced PicoWay laser to remove localized argyria anywhere on the body. Unlike the Q-switched laser which operates at a nanosecond speed (one billionth of a second). PicoWay operates at a rate measured in picoseconds (one trillionth of a second). This exceptional speed allows our clients to experience faster. More comfortable treatments with minimal risk of injury and fewer overall sessions.
Our Client Success Story
A recent Unthink Inc. client came to our founder, Jim Trenholm, with a case of acute localized argyria caused by a 10-year-old nose piercing. During this time the silver particles in the piercing started to deteriorate. Leaving a small patch of grey discolouration around the contact site (as shown in the photos below).
To make treatment as comfortable as possible, our expert technician Jim Trenholm prepped the skin with multiple blasts of -30°C air from the advanced Zimmer Cryo chiller device. This, combined with a frozen tampon of cotton cushioning the treatment site. Created a more safe and comfortable procedure for the client.
Treatment with PicoWay was quick and only two (to four sessions maximum) will be necessary. To ensure the skin has fully healed before the next session begins. These treatments will be spaced least eight weeks apart. For every client, Jim provides an aftercare kit for faster recovery in between sessions, including the 100% vegan and organic NovE Gel . To avoid the piercing from closing up. Jewellery is permitted once the area is no longer tender and skin has healed (typically after three to five days).
For more information about the treatment of acute localized argyria, book your free consultation with our expert technician.
