What type of laser removes a dark freckle from the face? CO2 Laser?

Although laser resurfing is an option to treat pigmentacion (lentigo, freckles, PIH, etc), i wouldn´t suggest it as a first option, i would opt for IPL: no dowtime, no specific aftercare just your sunscreen and other minor measures, whereas with CO2 you have some dowtime

Thank you for reaching out with your question about removing a dark freckle from your face. I'm here to help provide you with some information on the type of laser that might be suitable for this purpose.

CO2 lasers, specifically fractional CO2 lasers, are known for their ability to address various skin concerns, including pigmentation issues like freckles. These lasers work by delivering precise beams of energy that target the dark pigmented areas, encouraging the skin to regenerate and heal with improved tone and texture.

However, it's crucial to note that while CO2 lasers can be effective for pigmentation removal, they are also more aggressive and might require some downtime for healing. Additionally, the suitability of a CO2 laser treatment depends on factors such as your skin type, the size and depth of the freckle, and your overall skin health.

Before proceeding with any laser treatment, I strongly recommend consulting with a licensed dermatologist or experienced skincare professional. They can evaluate your individual case, provide personalized recommendations, and guide you toward the most suitable treatment option. A thorough consultation will help ensure that you have a clear understanding of the potential benefits, risks, and expected outcomes.

Some alternative treatments like Pico Laser, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) or Q-switched lasers should also be considered for pigmentation removal. Your skincare provider can help you weigh the pros and cons of each approach and make an informed decision that aligns with your skin's needs and your desired results.

Remember, the safety and effectiveness of any procedure depend on the expertise of the practitioner and a well-informed decision-making process. Your journey to achieving clearer, healthier skin starts with a thorough consultation and a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

A combination approach will give the most improvement with freckles. I recommend lasers (IPL or BBL combined with Fraxel/Halo/Moxi), microneedling with PRP, Cosmelan and TCA peels. The number of sessions needed will vary. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer​

The terms dark freckles, moles, sunspots, etc. are for the most part bandied about quite loosely, but really are quite different kinds of spots, each requiring a different approach. So, appropriate diagnosis is the first step before a specific treatment approach can be suggested. The term moles specifically refer to benign pigmented lesions that can be perfectly flat and flush with the surrounding skin or elevated into prominent bumps. Melanomas, a very serious, potentially life-threatening "moles," which also can be flat and appear perfectly innocent. Freckles are benign and "sunspots" can be benign hyperpigmentation or even pre-malignancies. So, you see that going ahead with destructive modalities or removing brown spots without being sure what they are is not recommended; all too many melanomas have unfortunately been burned away by cautery, lasers or strong chemicals only to recur later in more serious forms. So, you would be wise to consult a board certified dermatologist who can establish the diagnosis and then recommend the best treatment approach.