I've had Fraxel on my forearms to reduce sun damage as well as age spots (Photo)

Question

What would be the appropriate procedure to reduce spots? I've tried Retin A that only irrated the spots.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I would start with an intense skin rejuvenation protocol for age spots that includes fractional laser, Covalent chemical peels, and daily skin brightening creams to improve your skin’s complexion. Laser therapy must be combined with a proper skin regimen to enhance and maintain youthful results.
The following skincare products for dark age spots: Melarase
MelaClenz Brightening CleanserMelarase AM: Day-time skin lightener with SPF 30Melarase PM: Night-time skin lightenerMelapads: Daily Exfoliating PadsReplenish Retinoid Cream: Exfoliating and skin-stimulating night creamBest, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

Thanks for the photos these are super helpful. First thing to start is that you are using a daily sun screen with SPF 30+ that has broad band coverage.  IPL is a good option  but is a jack of all trades and to some experts a master of none.  However other options include Clear+Brilliant and Fraxel Dual.  The Clear+Brilliant laser has minimal downtime and great results.  The laser has two hand pieces one for texture/pore size and one for color (pigmented spots)-Permea handpiece.   Fraxel Dual has a bit more associated effects with redness for 3-5 days.  Another issue is the cost of the procedure is bit more than Clear+Brilliant.  For the larger or darker spots you can consider doing something like an Alexandrite laser 755nm as Dr. Green mentioned the Trivantage.  Make sure to discuss these options with a board certified Dermatologist that has cosmetic training or uses these lasers on a regular frequency.  Thanks for the question, I hope this helps your decision making.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Sun damage and age spots will need life-long maintenance. A combination approach will give the most improvement long term with lasers (Fraxel, Tattoo lasers, Excel V, Pulsed Dye), peels and microneedling/prp. It may take a few treatments to get improvement and will need life-long treatments to maintain. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Carmela A. Pettigrew, MD · Answer

An IPL/BBL treatment are very effective for reducing age spots and pigment on your arms, face, hands and chest. Most will need several treatments four to six weeks apart.  You should avoid sun exposure after or they will return.

Fereydoon S. Mahjouri, MD · Answer

An IPL treatment on the arms can be very effective for reducing age spots and pigment. Most people will need at least three treatments four to six weeks apart. Plan for the pigment to get darker before it lightens. Many people will plan treatments when they can wear long sleeves. You should avoid sun exposure after IPL treatments.

I've had Fraxel on my forearms to reduce sun damage as well as age spots (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Brown Spots

Answer: Brown Spots

Answer: Reducing age spots on arms

Answer: Reducing age spots on arms

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I've had Fraxel on my forearms to reduce sun damage as well as age spots (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Brown Spots

Answer: Brown Spots

Answer: Reducing age spots on arms

Answer: Reducing age spots on arms

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.