Laser Therapy for Sun Spots: What to Know

Sun spots, also called solar lentigines or age spots, are flat areas of darker pigment commonly found on skin that receives repeated sun exposure. Treatment can make them less noticeable, but it does not prevent new pigment from forming.

A laser delivers selected wavelengths of light to pigment in the spot. The treated pigment absorbs the energy and breaks into smaller particles that the body gradually clears. The surrounding skin is also exposed to heat, so temporary redness, swelling, sensitivity, or darkening can occur before the area settles.

The right device depends on your skin tone, the depth and colour of the spot, its location, and whether you have a history of pigmentation after skin injury. A consultation should include an examination of the mark rather than treating every dark patch as a sun spot. Laser is one option; an IPL photofacial, chemical peel, or cryotherapy may be considered in selected cases.

Before treatment, tell the clinician about recent tanning, medicines, active skin irritation, cold sores, a tendency to form raised scars, and any previous pigmentation changes after procedures. Avoid deliberately tanning the area and follow the clinic’s instructions about products that may irritate your skin.

After treatment, keep the area clean, avoid picking or peeling crusted skin, and use the recommended sun protection. Limit direct sun exposure while the skin heals. Contact the clinic if discomfort is worsening, blisters develop, or the treated area becomes increasingly hot or swollen.

Results are gradual and may require more than one appointment. Even when an existing spot fades, ongoing ultraviolet exposure can cause further dark patches. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, shade, protective clothing, and reapplication outdoors help reduce that risk.

Arrange a medical skin assessment before cosmetic laser treatment if a mark is new, changing in size, shape, or colour, bleeding, crusting, persistently itchy, painful, or different from your other spots. A suspicious lesion may need a closer examination or a sample rather than pigment treatment.

Seek prompt advice for a treated area with spreading redness, pus, fever, severe pain, or a significant blistering reaction. These symptoms can signal infection or a stronger-than-expected skin reaction and should not be managed by applying random creams.

Ask: Does this spot look suitable for cosmetic treatment? Which device fits my skin tone and the spot’s features? What changes should I expect during healing? How can I reduce the chance of temporary or lasting pigment change? What sun protection and skincare should I use before and after the appointment?