Laser Treatment for Age Spots, Sun Damage and Pigmentation

We have several laser modalities available to treat pigmented lesions, but we typically use a green Q-Switched laser for targeted treatment. Our Q-Switched platform is high-powered, clinically precise, and ideal for removing excess melanin without damaging the surrounding skin.

Q-Switched Green laser is a powerful treatment that requires care and experience. When used properly, it delivers excellent results while avoiding unwanted side effects. It is easy to overdo this type of treatment, which is why we take a cautious, measured approach.

If your pigmentation is more widespread or fine in texture, we may recommend an Erbium CoolPeel laser facial instead. This treats the whole surface of the skin, improving both tone and texture with a short recovery period.

Yes, we can usually improve or remove unwanted pigmentation with laser treatment. Fairly light-coloured lesions often respond well to a single Q-Switched laser session. Darker or more stubborn pigmentation may take two or three treatments to fully fade. We will assess your skin and give you a realistic idea of what to expect.

It is not uncommon for some lesions to reappear slightly a few weeks after treatment. When they do come back, they are usually much lighter and respond well to follow-up sessions.

Pigmented lesions are a sign of cumulative sun exposure, and more can appear over time, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. The best way to prevent new ones from forming is to wear SPF sunblock daily and use hats or other physical protection when out in strong sun.

Unfortunately not. Laser pigmentation removal works by targeting excess melanin, so if the surrounding skin is tanned, the laser cannot distinguish between the pigmentation we are trying to treat and the temporary melanin from your tan. This can result in pale or uneven patches where the laser has affected healthy skin.

We need your natural skin tone to be as close to its untanned state as possible before treatment. That means no recent sun exposure, tanning beds, or fake tan. Even a light tan increases the risk of side effects and makes treatment less predictable.

This sounds like melasma, sometimes also called chloasma or the mask of pregnancy. It is more complex to treat than sun damage and usually needs a combination of topical treatment and laser. We can help with the laser side, but we would refer you to a trusted aesthetic nurse to manage the topical part of the process first. Get in touch if this sounds like your situation and we will advise you.

Treating pigmentation in darker skin types is a specialised area and not something we currently offer at Highland Laser Clinic. The risks of rebound pigmentation or unwanted lightening are higher, and it takes a tailored approach with specific techniques and experience.

There are excellent practitioners who focus entirely on this field, often based in major cities, and we would recommend seeking out someone with that specialist background. We would respectfully decline to treat these cases, as they fall outside our current skill set.

There is some discomfort with any laser procedure, but this treatment is very mild. We use the laser at a superficial level to target excess pigmentation on the surface of your skin. Most people describe the feeling as similar to being gently flicked with a rubber band.