Hyperpigmentation, better known as brown spots, age spots, liver spots and freckles found on your face, chest, and hands, are all caused by overproduction of melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells that cause the dark pigment in your skin which is the body’s natural sunscreen.

Without question, the number one cause of brown spots is overexposure to the sun. Other factors such as hormonal changes, certain illnesses and medications can also cause this condition.

The light beam is absorbed by melanin (pigment) causing the destruction of unwanted cells. In the next few days, the brown spots will continue to darken and eventually flake off your skin.

Pain is minimal. There is a slight sting or a “snap of a hot rubber band” sensation over the area being treated.

• Avoid UV exposure 7 days prior to your treatment.
• Avoid any sun exposure 2 weeks prior to your treatment.
• Avoid sunless tanning products 7 days prior to your treatment.
• STOP all Retin A/Retinol products, alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxyl products (AHA/BHA), hydroquinone, Tazorac, and Differin for 72 hours before treatment.
• STOP fish oil 72 hours before treatment.
• Antibiotics may increase photosensitivity. If started on an antibiotic, please call your pharmacist to check if it is photosensitive to the sun. You will need to be off the medication for 7 days before laser treatment.
• If you are prone to cold sores, it is highly recommended to take an anti-viral medication (such as Valtrex) prior to your treatment. Please call our office for a prescription.
• Abstain from the use of Accutane or similar products for 6 months. Patients using these products CANNOT receive BBL treatments.

An average of 3 treatments are needed. However, most clients see a dramatic difference after just one treatment.

Initially following the treatment your brown spots will appear noticeably darker, they will flake off in approximately one week. You may have some redness immediately after the procedure which will resolve quickly.

Yes, the pigmented cells are destroyed by the laser on contact. However, if the treated area is exposed to the sun, you are at risk of developing more brown spots. Sun-avoidance and sunblock are key in preventing new spots from developing. Daily use of sunblock containing high levels of Zinc Oxide (7% or higher) is recommended. Zinc Oxide is a physical block, much different from a sunscreen. These higher levels of Zinc Oxide can be purchased in a medispa or dermatologist’s office.