Age spots are alterations of the pigmentation of the skin that occur naturally throughout the ageing process. Of course, environmental influences can have an effect (for example, the amount of time one spends in the sun and whether or not they are/were smokers). But generally speaking, age spots (sometimes called “liver spots”) will occur no matter how much care and attention we give to our skin throughout our lives.
Fortunately, these age spots need not be a fixture of your skin, thanks to a variety of different treatments available from cosmetic surgeons and medical professionals. These non-surgical interventions can substantially reduce or entirely remove the appearance of age spots, as well as even out the overall pigmentation and health of the skin. One of the most popular forms of treatment for age spots and related skin issues are laser treatments. There are several different kinds, so let’s explore the options that you have and which ones may benefit you the most.
How Do Laser Treatments Work?
Laser treatments, or laser resurfacing, involve the use of a laser to remove the upper layer of the skin with a high-intensity beam of light. Once the upper layer of the dermis has been removed, it allows the skin below to begin to be revealed and become exposed, thus creating new skin. In some cases, non-ablative lasers are used, which are less intense and act to stimulate the growth of collagen within the body. However, while these treatments are typically not as invasive as an ablative laser treatment, they may also not be as effective for particularly difficult skin concerns.
CO2 Laser Treatment For Age Spots
Fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatments aim to reduce the appearance of not only lines and wrinkles, but can also effectively remove discoloration in the pigmentation of the skin, such as might be seen with age spots. The treatment can be safely used on the skin of the face, hands, chest, and other parts of the body at the discretion of the medical professional who is administering the treatment. The new skin that appears after a treatment of this kind will be softer and smoother, thanks to the precise targeting of the fractional CO2 laser. In addition to age spots, this kind of technology can also help remove sun damage and acne scars as well as enhance the overall texture of the skin.
IPL Laser Treatment For Age Spots
IPL laser treatments, or intense pulse light treatments, utilize a bright light for photo rejuvenation, which makes the skin appear smoother and more youthful, with a more balanced skin pigmentation. Thus, IPL laser treatments can help remove age spots as well as small but visible blood vessels. IPL technology has seen many advancements in recent years, including the “next generation” of treatments, which utilize AFT, or advanced fluorescence technology. AFT-IPL treatments typically offer a more balanced approach to skin resurfacing for a more cohesive, youthful appearance of the patient’s skin.
Learning More About Laser Treatments For Age Spots
To learn more about which kind of laser treatment will best remove your age spots and reveal the healthy, more youthful skin beneath, speak with a qualified plastic surgeon. If you’re in the Toronto area, please feel welcomed and encouraged to contact the award-winning offices of Dr. Cory Torgerson, who would be more than happy to discuss all of your options with you. Please dial (647) 343-0207 for more information and to take control of your aesthetic goals.
