Laser for Brown Spots
Many people in their
30s and 40s
begin noticing brown spots on their skin
Most people who have
age spots
have spent time outdoors
Brown spots can form on the
face, hands, arms,
and shoulders when exposed to the sun
Laser treatment is an
effective method
for long-lasting removal of brown spots
Brown spots on your skin are areas where damaged skin cells produce too much melanin. They are typically caused by age and sun damage, and can be eliminated with safe, non-invasive laser treatments. Ask your Forefront provider if it’s the best option for your aesthetic goals.
What causes brown spots, or hyperpigmentation?
Brown spots, also often referred to as age spots or liver spots, develop when there is an overabundance of pigment on certain areas of the skin. Hyperpigmentation – “hyper” meaning more and “pigment” meaning color – makes parts of the skin darker than others.
Your skin gets its color from a substance called melanin, which is produced by skin cells. When those skin cells are unhealthy or become damaged, they can produce too much melanin, causing that particular area to appear darker. The damage can happen due to a variety of reasons, including:
- Genetics
- Sun damage
- Hormonal changes (such as melasma during pregnancy)
- Skin injuries
- Medications
- Vitamin deficiency
How does laser treatment help with brown spots?
While there are many cosmetic products and DIY home options that claim to reduce or eliminate brown spots, laser treatments from a dermatological professional are one of the most effective treatments for hyperpigmentation. Laser treatment directs short, concentrated beams of light at blemishes on your skin, removing the outer layer (the epidermis) and heating the layer underneath (the dermis). This process helps remove brown spots and stimulate the growth of new collagen, resulting in new clearer, smoother skin.
What can I expect from laser treatment for hyperpigmentation?
Forefront performs all laser treatments on an outpatient basis. Once the area being treated is fully cleaned and the necessary anesthesia takes effect, your provider will begin the procedure. The time it takes will depend on the area(s) you want to treat. Some patients only want one or two brown spots treated, while others opt to treat their entire face. A full-face treatment usually takes about two hours.
What kind of aftercare will be required for brown spot laser treatment?
Although it’s a non-surgical procedure, laser treatment does require at least a few days of healing time (some patients take up to 10 days to recover). You may experience redness, swelling, itching, or stinging. Depending on your treatment, your skin could also blister. Never scratch or pick at skin that crusts over, which could cause scarring or infection.
Your Forefront Dermatology provider will show you how to cleanse the treated area. You can also apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment twice a day as needed. Using a cool compress or ice pack, especially during the first few days, can help reduce swelling.
What results can I expect from laser treatment for brown spots?
About a week after laser treatment, your skin will dry out and begin to peel. The new skin will have a pinkish color at first, but should begin to lighten up over the next several weeks. At this time, you will enjoy smooth, evenly colored skin with no brown spots.
Many laser treatment patients continue to see improvements for up to a year, and the results can last several years. Some patients experience permanent results. For best results, it’s important to apply sunscreen every day and avoid extended periods in the sun as much as possible.
If or when brown spots reappear down the road, your provider will be happy to administer another laser treatment.
Interested in Laser for Brown Spots? Request a consultation with a skin specialist today.
*Treatment options may vary at each location.Please confirm your desired treatment is offered at your preferred location when scheduling. *Age Restriction.
For patients scheduling who are under 18 years of age (19 in Alabama and Nebraska) please make sure you have permission from your parent or legal guardian to schedule this appointment. Your parent or legal guardian must accompany you on your initial visit and on certain subsequent visits to provide appropriate informed consent.