Brown spots on legs removal (Photo)

Question

Hello! I was wondering if someone could suggest ways to remove these brown spots that are literally covering both legs. They started after getting laser hair removal and then I tried to get rid of them with IPL and I think that actually made it much worse because they came back even more all over both legs. A dermatologist told me that fraxel might be the answer, but they weren't sure if that would work. Does anybody know which laser might help get these brown spots off my legs?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

The appearance of brown spots following laser hair removal can be possibly due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This condition occurs when the skin produces more melanin in response to an injury, resulting in dark spots. Here are some treatment approaches:

1. Topical Treatments: These include skin lightening creams such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, or azelaic acid. Retinoids may also be helpful. These treatments may take several months to see results.

2. Chemical Peels: These treatments involve applying a strong acid to the skin to remove the top layers and promote new skin growth. This can help lighten the dark spots.

3. Laser Treatments: As you mentioned, Fraxel laser may be an option. Other lasers that could be effective include Q-switched lasers, Pico lasers, and Nd:YAG lasers. These lasers work by targeting the melanin in the dark spots without damaging the surrounding skin.

4. Microdermabrasion or Dermabrasion: These procedures involve removing the top layer of your skin with a small hand-held device.

5. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the affected skin area with liquid nitrogen.

6. Microneedling: This procedure involves creating tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate the body's healing response and promote new skin growth.

Remember to always use a high SPF sunscreen, as sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation. It is crucial to consult with a dermatologist or a professional skin care expert before starting any treatment. They can examine your skin and suggest the most suitable treatment based on your condition and skin type.

Mark Taylor, MD · Answer

You have a combination of Lentigenes (age spots) and Seborrheic keratoses on your legs.  The lentigenes can be treatment successfully with the Fotona StarWalker PQX Laser (or similar technology) and the Seborrheic Keratoses can be recisely vaporized using a short-pulse erbium laser.  Complete healing usually takes about 6 months before the skin is back to normal color.  This is a very sucessful treatment approach for your brown spots.

Jason Pozner, MD · Answer

I would use the latest Sciton BBl called heroic. Its a type of IPL but very sophisticated. there should be a provider in austin

Brown spots on legs removal (Photo)

Answers (4)

More Laser Resurfacing Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (4)

More Laser Resurfacing Questions

What laser and treatment would be best for this? (Photo)

What laser can help forehead texture and prick holes/large pores? (Photo)

Venous Lake on Lips - Laser? San Francisco Bay Area (Photo)

Can laser treatment and fat grafting help minimize the appearance of genetic under eye hollows and pigmentation? (photos)

Fractional ablative vs fully ablative - which treatment provides a greater difference in the skin?

Can sublative laser cause facial fat loss? Look dull and older, noticeable to myself and others. (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS