Removal of individual freckles?

Question

I wonder if it is possible to get rid of individual freckles/flat moles with laser ? CO2 or other. Is there any type of laser that can target only very small portions of skin at a time?

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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

CO2 laser treatment is an aggressive procedure, much like old-style dermabrasion that possesses the possibility for the subsequent development of dyspigmentation problems and even scarring. The hard science to support the use of Fraxel lasers lags woefully behind the heavy marketing and social media buzz for its use. So, buyer beware when it comes to this. On the other hand, TCA 15-25% has been used successfully for lightening all kinds of skin discolorations, including true freckles (ephelides). As to performing any kind of destructive treatment for real moles (nevi), this must be done very cautiously, since it is not rare for moles (often called "beauty marks" by the lay public) to actually not be as innocent or innocuous as they may appear. For actual moles, it is best for a sample to be sent to the lab to confirm that it is entirely benign before it is simply destroyed by any means, be it acid or laser, etc. You would be wise to make sure to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist, as s/he is in the best position to help you with both confirming the diagnosis and with appropriate treatment. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Anshul Gambhir, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question. The CO2 laser can target individual freckles and flat moles. I would recommend having an in person consultation with a certified physician.

Removal of individual freckles?

Answers (3)

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