Freckles and Age Spots

Freckles and Age Spots

Freckles are small pigmented spots found on the face, the arms, and shoulders. Freckles can be found on anyone but are most visible on people with fair skin complexion. Freckles usually start to appear during adolescence and persist into adulthood. Exposure to sunlight is the leading cause of the formation of freckles.

Solar lentigines, also known as age spots, are localised brownish spots or patches found on the sun-damaged skin. Areas exposed to the sun, especially the face and hands, are common locations of solar lentigines. Solar lentigines typically occur in people above the age of 40 years as the skin is less able to repair itself from sun damage. Although this is a benign skin condition, solar lentigines are considered unsightly and many people would like to remove them.

Laser therapy is an excellent treatment to remove both freckles and age spots. After they are removed, continuous protection from sunlight is crucial to prevent a recurrence.

Procedure

Laser System: Q-Switched Nd-YAG Laser (MedliteÒ)

Duration: 20 to 30 minutes for each session

Anaesthesia: Usually not required. Patients with sensitive skin may require cold compression or numbing cream.

Downtime: 1-2 hours

Total sessions required: 6 sessions or more.

The interval between sessions: 1 to 2 weeks

Post Laser Care

What to Expect: Mild skin redness 1-2 hours

Skincare protocol:

1. 1. 1. Clean the face in the morning and at night with a gentle cleanser.

      2. Use a high-grade moisturiser to restore moisture in the skin. Adequate hydration of the skin is essential to keep the skin healthy and protect it from damage.

      3. Apply sunscreen at least twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. In the events the sunscreen wears off due to sweating, face-washing, or swimming, the patient needs to reapply the sunscreen to ensure continuing protection.

Use physical sun protection such as an anti-UV umbrella and hat while going out under the sunlight.

Continuing sun protection is crucial to maintain satisfactory results and prevent a recurrence.