I am a Fitzpatrick type 4 skin Asian with freckles on both sides of the cheeks. What is the best treatment for this? (Photos)

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hi, thanks for the question and the pictures.Asian skin types in particular are difficult to treat.  I would NOT recommend an IPL treatment , as this can be very difficult to do on Asian skin types, even in very experienced hands.  I would do a series of PicoSure laser treatment - which is great for all skin types, has no down time, and has minimal risk of burns.  You may also need to add microneedling to get optimal results.Best of luck.Michael Kerin MDKerin MedSpa

Freckles require a combination approach with lasers (IPL, fraxel) and peels. It may take a series of treatments. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer