Age Spots: Understanding and Reducing Sun-related Pigment Spots

Why do age spots appear?

Over time, the skin can accumulate the effects of sun exposure. The cells responsible for the production of melanin then become more active in certain areas, which causes the appearance of superficial brown spots.

These spots mainly appear:

• on the visage
• on the hands
• on the cleavage

They can also appear on other areas exposed to the sun.

How do treatments for dark spots work?

The technologies used to reduce pigment spots are generally based on targeted light, like some lasers or pulsed light.

This light energy targets the melanin (brown pigment) present in the stain, without affecting the surrounding skin. Melanin is fragmented and then gradually eliminated by the body.

After the session, the stain may darken temporarily before gradually lightening over the following weeks.

Course of a session

Treatment is usually quick.

During the session, the skin may experience:

• one brief clicking sensation
• one slight whiteness
• one temporary redness

In the days that follow, the spots may become darker before gradually fading.

After the session:

• makeup is generally possible
• gentle treatments and showering are allowed

Important precautions

To optimize results and protect the skin, certain precautions are necessary:

• avoid sun exposure or UV rays (cabin) 2 weeks before and up to 2 months after the session
• avoid certain products or medications photosensitizers (some antibiotics, antidepressants, plants like St. John's Wort)
• do not pull off scabs if they appear
• enforce daily SPF 50+ sun protection

Sun protection is still the most important measure to prevent the appearance of new spots.

FAQS

Is the treatment painful?

The sensation is generally brief and comparable to a small click accompanied by a slight heat.

How many sessions are required?

In many cases, one to two sessions are sufficient, but some older stains may require additional treatment.

Can stains come back?

Treated stains usually disappear, but new ones may appear in case of repeated sun exposure without protection.

When do the results appear?

The spots may darken immediately after the session and then brighten gradually in 2 to 4 weeks.