Age spots typically develop as a result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light. They are usually the product of sun exposure, but tanning beds and other tanning equipment may also contribute to their development. By definition, age spots are not cancerous and present no physical health problems, but they can be a cosmetic concern. Skin Renew Day Spa & Laser center provides the best age spot removal in Indianapolis.
What are age spots?
Laser Brown Spot Removal
Age spots are a type of Benign pigmented lesion commonly referred to as freckles, liver spots, and solar/senile lentigenes.
Freckles are small tan to medium brown macules 1 to 2 mm in diameter. Freckles are typically found on sun-exposed skin and they darken in response to the skin.
Solar Lentigenes-aka age spots, brown spots, liver spots or senile lentigenes occur in response to sunlight. Usually smaller than 1 cm in diameter but can grow larger. These increase in the number and size as a person ages. Caused by years of exposure to UV rays.
What does an age spot removal treatment entail?
The Skin Renew team uses the Lutronic Spectra™ laser to pass over your spots. Your treatment time depends on the number and size of lesions that you have to be treated. A single small brown mark takes only a few seconds. Treating many spots on the hands or face can take up to thirty minutes.
Age Spot Removal FAQs
How long will my results last?
The results of your age spot removal in Indianapolis can last for years, but recurrence is always possible.
Will this treatment be painful?
We will start by cooling the area with a light blast of cold air from the Cryo Chiller-this will slightly numb the area. During the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort or a hot tingle with each treatment. Numbing creams are not necessary. Shortly after, the treated areas may become mildly sensitive or itchy. We will end with a chilled compress on the area.
How many treatments will I need to have to remove my brown spots?
Many patients get great results after one treatment. If your spots are especially stubborn, you can come in for a touch-up treatment a month later. Birthmarks are less predictable but usually require two to three treatments.
What can I expect to look like after the treatment?
The areas that are treated will turn white immediately. Within minutes, the white color changes to red and then a red-violet thin crust forms.
These crusts fall off in a few days on the face, but can last about two weeks on the arms and longer on the legs. Slight pink discoloration under the crust remains and fades slowly over one to three months depending on the site.
How can I prevent my brown spots from coming back?
- Minimize sun exposure, especially midday sun. If you have to go out in the sun, be sure to wear a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB filters
- Wear protective clothing when you go outdoors
- Use of topical creams containing 4% hydroquinone are helpful during the summer months and can lighten any brown spots that might appear
What other risks should I be aware of with brown spot removal?
- Hyperpigmentation (darkening) and hypopigmentation (lightening) of the skin are possible and depend on your natural pigment. The risk is less than five percent for lighter skin patients; darker skinned patients are more likely to have adverse reactions
- Bleeding, infection and scarring are very rare
- As with any medical or surgical treatment, unforeseen consequences are always possible
How can I minimize my risks?
- Discontinue the use of rejuvenating products such as alpha hydroxy acids and retinoids one week (minimally) or more before your treatment
- Start laser treatments when your skin is at its palest to minimize the risk of pigment changes
- Use SPF 30 or better after your age spot removal in Indianapolis.