Over the years, sun exposure can cause age spots (also known as liver spots) on the skin. These pigmented spots often make the skin appear older and can be perceived as unattractive.

 

What causes age spots?

Sun exposure causes the melanocytes in the skin to produce brown pigment to protect the skin from UV rays. Due to a disorder of the skin cells, the skin produces too much melanin in some areas, which can result in a dark spot. These spots are therefore mainly found on skin areas that are exposed to UV rays – mainly on the face and the back of the hands.

Before eliminating the spots with a laser, IPL or a peel, it is essential to verify that they are benign “age spots” and not malignant spots (i.e. skin cancer).

 

Treatment options

At our practice, we use the Nordlys Ellipse System: a very effective treatment for removing pigment spots that is reliable, painless, fast and well-tolerated. The method uses a special wavelength spectrum of pulsed light (SWT – Selective Waveband Technology) to achieve a beautiful result. It not only reduces or completely removes age spots, but also stimulates collagen production, resulting in a “rejuvenation” effect. The skin looks significantly refreshed.

Between one and three treatments are usually required for the best results.

After the treatment, there may be slight swelling, redness, burning or minimal scab formation. However, these symptoms will quickly disappear without leaving any scars.

Particularly stubborn age spots can also be treated with the new Picolaser (PicoPlus, Lutronic).

 

Key points:

Excellent results after just 1–3 treatments.

Before treating a dark spot with a laser treatment, a dermatologist must examine it to rule out skin cancer

The skin must not be tanned and must be strictly protected from the sun for at least 3 weeks after the laser treatment