
Afsheen Ather
Aesthetic Specialist & Medical Spa located in Leesburg, VA
Are you self-conscious about your sun spots or freckles? You can get your confidence back with laser pigment removal for sun spots and freckles at Nova Derm Institute in Leesburg, Virginia. Afsheen Ather, MBBS, has more than 10 years of experience in dermatology and aesthetics and advanced training in specialized aesthetic procedures, like laser pigment removal, to help you. Call or schedule a consultation online today to learn more.
Call Us
Or
Sun Spot Treatment Q & A
What are sun spots?
Sun spots, also called lentigo, are spots of darker pigmentation on your skin caused by sun exposure. Sun spots can be flat brown, gray, or black in color due to increased pigmentation triggered by the sun. Freckles also indicate your skin’s responsiveness to sunlight. In fact, many people notice their freckles become darker after sun exposure.
Sun spots can ruin your complexion and make you look older than you feel. Freckles can be problematic when they darken with sun exposure and make you feel self-conscious when you want an even complexion.

What causes sun spots?
Sun spots are mainly triggered by skin aging and sun exposure, especially exposure to UV radiation. Sun exposure causes a buildup of melanocytes in your skin, which are responsible for the darker pigmentation. Freckles are made up of melanocytes, but these can darken with sun exposure.
Sun spots can appear on your face, the back of your hands, your shoulders, your back, and your forearms. Some people are more susceptible to sun spots, such as people over the age of 40, those with fair skin, and those with a history of frequent sun exposure or tanning bed use.
How are sun spots removed?
If sun spots or freckles make you feel self-conscious, Dr. Ather can help them fade or go away completely with laser pigment removal. She uses a specialized laser that specifically targets darker pigments to gently heat your skin and break down melanocytes.
Throughout your treatment, you wear light-blocking glasses to protect your eyes from the laser’s light. Then, Dr. Ather presses a handheld wand that houses the laser against the treatment area. You feel a comfortable warming sensation while the laser is on.
Depending on the size of the treatment area and the intensity of the pigmentation, your treatment may last up to an hour. After your visit, you can return to your normal activities.
Is laser removal effective for sun spots?
Yes, studies have shown that laser pigment removal can decrease the appearance of sun spots by up to 80% after your first session.* Depending on the intensity and size of the treatment area, you may need up to three sessions to see full results.
If sun spots or freckles are ruining your complexion, get help at Nova Derm Institute. Call or schedule a visit online today to get started.
*Individual results may vary.