THERAPY FOR SUN-SPOTS AT HOVE SKIN CLINIC
We specialise in the latest treatments for removing the tell-tale signs of ageing at the clinic. This includes the treatment of age-spots or solar lentigines, which are the brown marks that appear on the face, chest and back of the hands. One of the most effective ways to treat this is using an Intense Pulsed Light Laser System (The iPulse), which uses laser light to selectively destroy the pigment in the skin. Creams and topical treatments are not very effective because the pigment is distributed too deep within the skin. The laser light is able to penetrate to the correct level and remove the pigment permanently. We have two laser systems capable of treating this common problem in the clinic and use it as a part of our rejuvenation programme for treating fine lines and wrinkles. The same laser systems are used to treat and improve these emabrassing marks. It can be combined with conventional therapies include dermal fillers and Botox® injections.

How does Intense Pulsed Light Work?
Intense Pulsed Light is a light produced by a flash-lamp in the spectrum of 515-1200nm. The light penetrates deeply into the skin and selectively destroys melanin pigment that is responsible for the brown marks. It also produces Type I collagen synthesis that thickens the skin and helps improve fine lines and wrinkles. Stimulation of the blood supply also helps improve the feel and smoothness of the skin.

Clinical Pictures of Solar Lentigines Treatment Using the iPulse and Lumenis Lasers

What are the side-effects of treatment?
Most patients experience some redness for up to 48 hours following treatment and swelling may also occur. The brown lentigines (sun-spots) will darken for 7-10-days before peeling off. Blistering and crusting of the skin may rarely develop. The risk of scarring is extremely small. It is very important that patients do not have laser therapy within 4-weeks of an overseas sunny holiday as melanin pigment in the skin absorbs the laser light and cause a higher risk of side-effects. We are also more cautious with laser therapy in darker skinned individuals. We advise using sun-blocks before, during and after treatment for a minimum of 2-weeks. A factor SpF 30 is usually adequate. Typically, 2-4 sessions are required. Darker brown lentigines respond best to treatment compared to light brown ones.

How much does treatment cost?
We usually charge £120 per session and advise 2-4 sessions at 3-4 weekly intervals for maximum improvment. The treatment can be combined with other treatments including Botox® for wrinkle reduction on the face or Restylane Vital® on the back of the hands.