Sun/AgeSpots

1. What causes the skin to develop sun spots and age spots? Back to Top
These unwelcome brown patches are nothing more than accumulation of skin pigment melanin which is always produced by the skin. The amount of melanin present determines the skin tone of an individual. Melanin is produced by the body in response to sun exposure. It absorbs UV rays thus protects the body from the sun.

2. How do laser treatments treat sun spots and age spots? Back to Top
The laser or IPL treatments work by targeting the brown pigment, or "melanin," present in the skin of these spots. The pigment absorbs the energy from the device and becomes scattered within the skin's tissues. The result is skin that is more uniform in both color and texture.

3. What areas can be treated? Back to Top
Virtually any part of your body with sun and age spots or freckles can be treated. The face, arms, chest, shoulders arms and hands are the most popular areas for treatment because they have typically had the most sun exposure. However, all parts of the body can be treated both discrete spots and skin dense with pigment respond well to treatments.

4. How many treatments are required? Back to Top
Usually age spots require only one or two treatments for removal, although larger, darker spots may require more. Once treated the age spots will not return. However treatments cannot stop the ageing of the skin and other age spots will appear in time. The use of sun screen and limited direct exposure to the sun is always recommended.

5. What can I expect during a treatment? Back to Top
Most patients report the sensation like the snap of a rubber band on the skin during the treatment. After the treatments, patients report the feeling of mild sunburn on the treated area.

6. How soon can I see results? Back to Top
Results are seen with 2 to 30 days, depending on the lesion and exact type of skin condition. Soon after the treatment the spots may darken and may appear reddish. Eventually the spots will fade and flake off, leaving skin with a smooth and more even tone.

7. Who are the best candidates for treatments? Back to Top
Laser treatments are viable for all skin types with age spots and other skin discolorations such as freckles and spots caused by the sun.