Pigmentation
Sun Spots & Freckles
Sun spots (solar lentigines) and freckles are flat brown spots caused by sun exposure and genetics. They are usually harmless and respond well to pigment lasers such as picosecond or Q-switched lasers, often within one to three sessions, followed by sun protection.
Overview
Freckles typically appear in childhood and darken in summer; sun spots appear later on sun-exposed skin such as the cheeks, hands and shoulders.
A dermatologist should confirm that a spot is benign before laser removal, since early skin cancers can resemble pigment spots.
At a glance
Treatment options
Picosecond laser, Q-switched Nd:YAG or ruby laser, IPL, and topical lighteners.
Downtime
Small scabs form and fall off in about five to ten days.
Aftercare
Daily sunscreen and avoiding picking scabs to prevent darkening.
Frequently asked questions
Will freckles come back after laser?
New freckles can appear with sun exposure, but treated spots usually stay lighter with good sun protection.
Is one session enough?
Many isolated sun spots clear in one or two sessions.
Is it painful?
Most patients describe a quick snapping sensation; numbing cream is commonly used.
Related
Choose a specialist
See a board-certified dermatologist, not just a “skin clinic”
In Korea, only about 1 in 10 clinics that treat skin is run by a dermatology specialist (피부과 전문의). Specialists complete a four-year dermatology residency and a national exam. Our directory lists only clinics in the Association of Korean Dermatologists’ specialist search. This page is general information, not medical advice.