We’ve all noticed them: brown spots on the skin, most commonly on the hands or face. While brown spots can make you feel older than you are, the good news is that they are treatable. The best thing you can do to prevent them is to protect your skin from the sun. The sun is the single most significant cause of brown spots on the skin, which is why they’re more common in older adults. While sun protection can help minimize the effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays on the skin, brown spots can still appear with age.

Fortunately, Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York in Manhattan and Southampton, New York City offers a full spectrum of laser devices to reduce the appearance of brown spots. All of our treatments are performed by board-certified dermatologists and experienced plastic surgeons, so patients know they’re receiving the most effective, safest care possible.

1. Brown Spots Are Often Caused by Sun Damage, and Laser Treatments Can Help Reverse the Effects

Age spots and brown spots are slight discolorations on the skin caused by sun exposure and aging. They are also known as skin hyperpigmentation and are caused by an increased number of melanin-containing cells in the skin. This can range from a few small spots to large patches of discoloration on the skin. They can appear on any body part but are most commonly found on the face, neck, arms, and hands.

Lasers are a safe and effective treatment for brown spots. The innovative removal targets the brown spots in the dermal layer without damaging surrounding tissue. The laser breaks up the pigmentation and stimulates collagen production to rejuvenate the skin and minimize discoloration.

Everyone has different skin and beauty goals that respond to various devices and treatment plans. Brown spot laser removal is accomplished with a range of lasers that can be used individually or in combination to help patients achieve healthier, younger-looking skin. Lasers that can treat brown spots on the skin include:

• Ruby laser: A Q-switched laser that features a short pulse for optimal absorption and superior results eliminating pigmented spots.
• nd:YAG laser: A Q-switched anti-aging laser that targets melanin with rapid pulses.
• Fraxel lasers: Fractional resurfacing lasers target the cellular level with tiny channels in the skin’s surface to stimulate collagen production.
• LaseMD Ultra laser: A non-ablative fractional laser that creates tiny wounds in the skin to ignite the body’s natural healing process for clearer skin.
• Clear + Brilliant
• PicoSure laser: An FDA-approved laser that can effectively treat pigmentation lesions with powerful energy bursts.
• PicoPlus laser: This laser combines nanosecond and picosecond wavelengths for precision treatments with optimal outcomes.

2. Laser Treatments Are a Non-invasive Way to Improve the Appearance of Your Skin

Lasers are a non-invasive treatment option for brown spot removal, meaning they do not require incisions, needles, or knives. Lasers penetrate the skin to break up the pigmentation without causing surrounding damage. The non-invasive procedure also has minimal downtime and recovery, so patients can immediately return to daily activities without a significant healing process. Patients may receive a topical anesthetic to numb the area and provide a treatment session with minimal discomfort.

Lasers are precise devices that pinpoint a treatment area, making it an ideal procedure for large or small brown spots. There are many benefits to laser brown spot removal, including:

• Many laser options for treatment
• Precise treatment that targets small or large areas
• Safe and effective
• Minimal downtime and recovery
• Quick treatment that can take only minutes*
• Long-lasting results
• Stimulates collagen production
• Noticeable results within days*
  *Individual results may vary

You’ll See Results After Just a Few Sessions

Some patients may only need one treatment session, while others need two or three for desired results. The number of treatment sessions depends on how many brown spots there are and the size of the treatment area. An expert dermatologist can assess the treatment area and appropriately determine how many sessions a patient requires. After a treatment session, many patients notice results within several days that gradually increase over several months as more collagen is produced and pigmented cells are removed from the skin. Most patients do not experience side effects, but some may experience:

• Redness or irritation
• Swelling
• Slight bruising
• Crusting or peeling

Side effects should dissipate within one to two days. While caring for the skin after laser brown spot removal, patients should avoid:

• Direct sun exposure
• Scrubbing the area
• Harsh chemicals or exfoliants
• Hot water
• Lotions and makeup

3. Lasers Can Treat a Variety of Skin Conditions, Including Brown Spots, Acne Scars, and Wrinkles

Lasers are versatile devices that can treat a range of skin conditions and concerns. Lasers are a skin resurfacing rejuvenation procedure that improves the skin by producing collagen production and elastin. Lasers can treat:

• Brown spots
• Acne scars
• Wrinkles and fine lines
• Uneven skin tone and texture
• Sun damage
• Enlarged pores
• Skin sagging
• Acne

Questions About Laser Treatments for Brown Spots? Contact Us at Laser & Skin Surgery Center Today!

Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York is a distinguished practice with fellowship-trained dermatologists and plastic surgeons in Manhattan and Southampton, New York City. Our board-certified practitioners have expert knowledge and experience operating more than 100 lasers and devices to help patients achieve youthful, healthy skin. We can address medical and cosmetic concerns like brown spots on the skin with personalized treatment plans.

Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about laser removal for brown spots.