Sun Spot Removal

Laser Treatments for SunspotsReveal a flawless complexion with one of our laser treatments for sunspots. While many at-home treatments claim to get rid of sunspots, in-office cosmetic procedures at the dermatologist are the best and most effective way to target and treat sunspots.

At Schweiger Dermatology, we offer many effective methods for removing sunspots, including:

  • Laser Therapy
  • Chemical Peels
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Prescription Topical Creams

The Best Laser Treatments for Sunspots

The best laser treatments for sunspots include the Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), the Fraxel laser, and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT).

How We Determine the Best Laser Treatment for You

Selecting the best laser to treat your brown spots depends on understanding the exact location and type of pigment we’re targeting. For example, sunspots are typically caused by excess melanin, or pigment, at the junction of the first and second layers of the skin (the epidermis and dermis). In having this understanding, we can pick the best device to target the right pigment at the right level of the skin for effective treatment.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light or IPL treats brown spots, melasma, broken capillaries, and sunspots on skin. It can also be used to remove unwanted hair from the body. IPL is similar to LHR in procedure. However, the type of light used for treatment differs between laser and IPL. While laser uses light in a single wavelength to destroy hair follicles, IPL uses broad-spectrum light in multiple wavelengths. IPL is similar to a photo flash. IPL tends to be different on the skin since it penetrates the top layer without affecting it and impacts only the second layer of skin. Pigment cells absorb the light emitted by the IPL device and convert it to heat, clearing up the spots and unwanted pigments on the skin. IPL works best for pale to light brown skin.

What to Expect with IPL

Once the skincare specialist has assessed the area to be treated, a cooling gel is applied to the skin before treatment begins. You will need to wear protective dark glasses for your eyes during the procedure. Treatment can take 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the area to be treated. Multiple treatments may be required to get desired results.

After treatment, the skin may feel sensitive, and you may see some redness and/or swelling around the treated area. This generally subsides in a few hours. Compared to other cosmetic treatments, recovery after IPL treatment is generally fast.

Fraxel Laser

The Fraxel laser works by treating small sections of skin at a time utilizing microscopic laser columns. This, in turn, spurs collagen production, allowing the body’s healing process to kick in. What happens? Damaged and dead cells are replaced by new cells. This is precisely why the Fraxel laser is ideal for treating everything from acne scarring to sun damage to age spots.

After Fraxel laser treatment, the skin feels softer and looks brighter with a more even texture. Over the next 3-6 months post-treatment, the skin regenerates and improves.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

PDT involves applying a photosensitizing cream to the face and exposing it to visible light for two hours before washing it off. PDT is a special treatment that uniquely reverses the signs of sun-damaged skin and stimulates the growth of healthy new skin.

PDT combined with IPL treatment is often recommended for patients with severely sun-damaged or wrinkled skin.

After PDT treatment, the skin is red, swollen, and tender, like a sunburn. Peeling lasts for up to 1 week. Temporary swelling of the lips and around the eyes is normal and can occur for a few days. Brown spots appear temporarily darker and then peel off, revealing healthy, beautiful skin.


Laser Treatments for Sunspots Near You in NY, NJ, PA, CT, FL, IL, MN and MO

Even if you pride yourself on wearing sunscreen daily, chances are your skin still gets exposed to the sun. One of the most commonly seen skin reactions to the sun is the formation of sunspots.

When sunspots and age spots appear as a result of too much sun exposure over the years, they can really age the face. Those brown spots can add years to your look and distract from your signature features. Freckles might be cute when you’re young, but brown spots on men and women over 30 can make you look years older.

If you are interested in laser treatments for sunspots, call Schweiger Dermatology Group at (844) DERM-DOC to schedule a consultation. To find a location near you, check out our location pages. We look forward to working together to find the best treatment for your skin!

About Schweiger Dermatology Group

Schweiger Dermatology Group was founded to help make excellent dermatology care accessible throughout the Northeast. In 2010, Dr. Eric Schweiger started the practice with a single location in Midtown Manhattan. When he saw the need for high-quality dermatology care that did not require weeks or months of waiting to see a qualified provider, his vision of a multi-location practice was born.

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