If you have sun spots – a common sign of sun damage on skin – there may be something you can do about it. Brown spots that appear after you spend too much time in the sun (over the course of your lifetime) are a form of hyperpigmentation, and they can make you look older than you really are. Fortunately, there’s something you can do about sun spots. Here’s what you need to know.
Can You Get Rid of Sun Spots?
It is possible to correct hyperpigmentation in the form of sun spots. Most often, doctors use a laser to reduce the appearance of these brown spots.
How Does a Laser Work to Get Rid of Sun Spots?
Lasers can help get rid of sun spots by delivering optimized pulses of light. The light stimulates the body’s immune system, which helps your own body improve imperfections in your skin. The best part: lasers that stimulate your immune system won’t harm the skin on or around your sun spots. They’re safe for most skin types, though you’ll need to sit down and talk to your doctor about whether laser treatments are right for you. If you’re a good candidate for laser treatments for sun spots, your doctor may use a laser to remove spots on your face, neck, chest, hands and arms.
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How Does Laser Sun Spot Removal Work?
Laser sun spot removal is quick. A typical treatment session lasts about 30 minutes. Your skin type and the extent of your sun spots will determine how many treatment sessions you’ll need, but most people generally only need three to four.
The doctor will aim a laser at your hyper-pigmented areas (meaning your sun spots). The laser will then deliver specific pulses of light that stimulate your immune system and kick it into gear.
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What Does Laser Sun Spot Removal Feel Like?
You may feel like you have a slight sunburn after being treated with a sun spot laser. You might experience a little bit of swelling, too. However, both those common side effects should disappear quickly. In fact, most people resume normal activities right after an appointment – there’s no downtime. However, your doctor will most likely tell you to stay out of direct sunlight for at least six weeks. You should also take very good care of your skin moving forward, including wearing strong sunblock, to avoid developing more sun spots over time.
What Are the Results Like After Sun Spot Treatment With a Laser?
After the laser prompts your system to correct sun spots, you’ll enjoy a more even skin tone. Some sun spots are more stubborn than others are and will require more treatments, while others will disappear after just a short course. Every person is different, so it’s important that you talk about your expectations with your doctor; your doctor will help ensure you know what to expect from the treatments, how dramatic the results will be, and how quickly your sun spots will disappear.
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How Should You Care for Your Skin After Laser Sun Spot Treatment?
Your doctor will tell you exactly how to care for your skin after having a laser sun spot treatment done. It’s very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions to promote healing and prevent skin damage. You should also use strong sunblock when you’re going to be in direct sunlight; that will help protect your skin from future damage.
Ready to Talk About Getting Rid of Sun Spots in Ann Arbor?
Our Ann Arbor med spa can help you get the look you want, from clear and youthful skin to fat reduction. Call or text us at 734-249-8722 or fill out the form below to get in touch.
