Years of sun exposure can leave behind unwanted brown spots, age spots, and uneven pigmentation. At Nova Dermatology in Cherry Hill, NJ, we offer Palomar Icon™ Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments to help reduce the appearance of sun damage and restore a clearer, more even-looking complexion.
Whether you are concerned about sunspots on your face, hands, chest, or other sun-exposed areas, IPL photofacial treatments offer a non-surgical option for improving the appearance of pigmentation.
Sunspots, also called solar lentigines or age spots, are flat brown or tan patches that commonly develop after years of ultraviolet (UV) exposure. They frequently appear on areas that receive the most sunlight, including:
- Face and forehead
- Cheeks and nose
- Hands and arms
- Neck and décolletage
- Shoulders and upper chest
Although most sunspots are harmless, new or changing pigmented lesions should be evaluated by a dermatologist before cosmetic treatment.
Palomar Icon™ IPL uses controlled pulses of broad-spectrum light to target excess pigment within the skin. The light energy is absorbed by melanin, helping break down concentrated pigmentation so the body can gradually clear the treated pigment.
Over the following days and weeks, treated spots may temporarily darken before fading, revealing a more even skin tone.
Benefits of IPL for Sun-Damaged Skin:
- Helps fade visible sunspots and age spots
- Reduces the appearance of uneven pigmentation
- Improves overall skin tone and clarity
- Can address certain redness and visible blood vessels
- Non-surgical treatment with minimal downtime for many patients
- Can treat multiple sun-damaged areas
Your appointment begins with an evaluation of your skin and pigmentation concerns. During treatment, a handheld device delivers controlled pulses of light to the targeted areas.
Patients may experience a brief snapping or warming sensation. Mild redness or temporary darkening of pigmented spots can occur afterward.
Some patients notice improvement after one session, while others benefit from a series of treatments depending on the extent of sun damage and their skin characteristics.
Is IPL Right for Your Skin?
IPL may be appropriate for certain types of sun-related pigmentation, but it is not suitable for everyone. Skin tone, recent tanning, medications, and the type of pigmentation all influence treatment recommendations.
Patients with darker skin tones may have a greater risk of pigment changes with IPL. Melasma can also worsen with some light-based treatments, making an accurate diagnosis especially important.
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, sun-protective clothing, and limiting excessive UV exposure can help maintain your results and reduce the development of new sunspots.
Ready to address visible sun damage and uneven skin tone? Visit Nova Dermatology to learn whether Palomar Icon™ IPL is appropriate for your skin.
Nova Dermatology
455 Route 70 W
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Phone: 856-520-8331
Schedule your consultation today and take the next step toward brighter, more even-looking skin.
