Learn about age spot removal methods (+causes of age spots, dermatological procedures, post-procedure care)

 

Source: Clipart Korea

 

If brown or black spots appear on your face or the back of your hands, it is easy to initially mistake them for simple blemishes or melasma. However, if the spots grow larger or the skin surface thickens over time, it is said that you should suspect age spots.

Today, I will summarize everything from the causes and key characteristics of age spots to dermatological methods for removal, as well as post-procedure care and precautions.

1. What are age spots?

Age spots are benign skin tumors that develop as epidermal cells proliferate. According to the Korean Dermatological Association, age spots can appear as a thickening of the skin surface or as a bumpy, wart-like form, and they may darken in color or thicken over time. They primarily occur on the face, neck, scalp, and torso; while most cases are asymptomatic, some may experience itching.

 

Source: Korean Dermatological Association – Seborrheic Keratosis (Age Spots)

 

1) Brown or black spot form

Age spots can appear in various forms, ranging from light brown to dark brown or black. They are said to be observed as circular or oval lesions with relatively distinct boundaries from the surrounding skin.

 

2) The skin surface thickens or protrudes

It is said that initially it may look like a flat spot, but over time, the skin surface can thicken or become bumpy like a wart.

 

3) Increased frequency with age

Age spots are skin lesions commonly observed in middle-aged and older adults, but they can also appear at a younger age. They are associated with skin aging and individual skin characteristics, and it is said that the location and form of occurrence vary.

2. Causes of age spots

1) Changes due to skin aging

As we age, changes can occur in the proliferation and differentiation processes of skin cells. Age spots are also said to be one of the skin lesions that become more commonly observed as age increases.

 

2) Long-term UV exposure

Pigmented lesions are prone to developing on areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face or the backs of the hands. While a link between age spots and UV exposure has been suggested, it is said that UV rays alone cannot explain the cause of their occurrence.

 

3) Individual skin characteristics

Even within the same age group, there are differences in the number and size of age spots. Genetic predisposition or individual skin characteristics may play a role, but the exact cause of their occurrence is not yet clearly understood.

3. How to remove age spots?

It is said that CO2 laser removal can be considered for age spots depending on their size, thickness, location, and skin condition. However, since there are skin lesions that resemble age spots, it is important to proceed with the procedure after an accurate diagnosis.

 

1) Characteristics of CO2 Laser

CO2 lasers are a procedure that removes lesion tissue by utilizing the principle that laser energy is absorbed by the moisture contained in skin tissue. It can be used to remove lesions that are thickened or raised on the skin surface, such as age spots, and the scope of the treatment may vary depending on the size and depth of the lesion.

 

👉 Achieve flawless, clear skin! Check out CO2 laser details

 

2) CO2 laser treated lesions

Moles / Age spots / Syringomas / Sebaceous gland hyperplasia / Skin tags / Flat warts / Milia

 

3) CO2 laser price

The price for the Maypure CO2 laser is said to be 7,000 won per mole for removal and 350,000 won for the entire face. However, the cost for age spot removal may vary depending on the size and number of lesions and the treatment area, so it is recommended to confirm the exact cost through a consultation.

4. Care Instructions After Age Spot Removal

After age spot removal, temporary redness, scabbing, and pigmentation may occur at the treated site. It is important to minimize unnecessary irritation and manage the skin during the recovery process.

 

1) Minimize irritation to the treatment site

If you have had age spots removed with a laser, small wounds or scabs may form. It is important to manage the area to allow for natural healing, as picking at the scabs with your hands or repeatedly rubbing the treated site can cause skin damage or leave scars.

 

2) Use recycled tape

After the procedure, the regenerative tape should be applied for about 7 to 10 days, and it is said that once applied, it should be kept on for about 3 to 4 days to help with wound healing.

 

3) UV protection and moisturizing care

It is recommended to consistently use sunscreen and combine it with moisturizing care tailored to your skin condition after the surface of the treated area has recovered.

 

👉 Find out about sunscreens good to use after dermatological procedures

5. Q&A

1) Can age spots disappear naturally?

Age spots are mostly benign skin lesions that do not disappear naturally. Unless they cause significant discomfort, removal is not strictly necessary; however, if you are concerned about their appearance, you may consider removal after consulting a dermatologist.

 

2) Can age spots reappear after removal?

Yes. Even after removal, age spots can reappear in the same area or develop anew in a different location. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly check your skin condition and continue basic skincare, such as sun protection, even after removal.

 

3) When do the scabs fall off after age spot removal?

Scabs that form after age spot removal generally fall off naturally over a period of about 1 to 2 weeks, but this may vary depending on the depth of the lesion and the extent of the procedure. Caution should be exercised, as forcibly removing the scabs can result in skin damage, pigmentation, or scarring.

 

Source: Clipart Korea

 

Age spots are benign skin lesions that commonly appear with aging, and they can be removed through dermatological laser procedures depending on their size and thickness. However, since there are pigmented conditions that resemble age spots, it is important to accurately identify the type of lesion first rather than simply removing them.

If you are considering removing age spots, it is recommended to choose a treatment method suitable for you after thoroughly checking your skin condition and the characteristics of the lesions.

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