Brown Spot Treatment

Both the Astanza® 532 laser and Nordlys® IPL target excess pigment in the skin, but they do so in slightly different ways.

The Astanza 532 laser uses a focused wavelength of light that is absorbed by the pigment in individual brown spots, helping break it down so the body can naturally clear it over time.

Nordlys IPL uses carefully selected wavelengths of intense pulsed light to target unwanted pigment across a broader area, making it especially useful for sun spots, freckles, and uneven pigmentation.

After treatment, brown spots may temporarily darken before gradually fading or flaking away as the skin renews itself.

Your physician or physician assistant will use the Astanza 532 laser or Nordlys IPL handpiece to deliver precise pulses of light to the treatment area. Treatment time depends on the number, size, and location of your brown spots. A single small spot may take only a few seconds, while treating multiple spots or larger areas of sun damage on the face, hands, chest, or arms may take up to 30 minutes.

Most patients tolerate treatment very well. You may feel a brief warm, stinging, or tingling sensation with each pulse of light, but numbing cream is rarely needed.

After treatment, the area may feel mildly sensitive, warm, or itchy for a short time. Applying a cool compress or ice pack for a few minutes can help minimize any discomfort.

Recovery depends on whether you are treated with the Astanza 532 laser or Nordlys IPL, as well as the location and extent of treatment.

After treatment, you may experience temporary redness, mild swelling, warmth, or sensitivity. Brown spots often become darker before gradually fading or flaking away.

On the face, treated areas generally improve within about seven days. On the hands and arms, healing may take approximately 1–2 weeks, while areas on the legs can take a little longer.

With more targeted laser treatment, some spots may develop a light crust or scab. It is important to let any crusting or flaking come off naturally and to protect the treated skin from sun exposure.

Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions based on your treatment and skin type.

Most patients need 1–3 treatments, depending on the type and extent of their pigmentation.

The Astanza 532 laser is often used for more targeted brown spots, while Nordlys IPL is ideal for treating broader areas of sun damage and uneven pigmentation. Treatments are typically spaced several weeks apart, and your provider will recommend the best plan for your skin and goals.

Results can last for years, but new brown spots may develop over time due to sun exposure, aging, and other factors. Daily sunscreen and good sun protection can help maintain your results longer.

• Minimize sun exposure, especially midday sun. If you have to go out in the sun, be sure to wear a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB filters
• Wear protective clothing when you go outdoors
• Use of topical creams containing 4% hydroquinone are helpful during the summer months and can lighten any brown spots that might appear
• What other risks should I be aware of?
• Hyperpigmentation (darkening) and hypopigmentation (lightening) of the skin are possible and depend on your natural pigment. The risk is less than five percent for lighter skin patients; darker skinned patients are more likely to have adverse reactions
• Bleeding, infection, and scarring are very rare
• As with any medical or surgical treatment, unforeseen consequences are always possible.

• Following your provider’s pre- and post-treatment instructions is the best way to minimize risk.
• Avoid tanning and excessive sun exposure before and after treatment, and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Your provider may also recommend temporarily stopping certain skincare products or using a brightening product if you are prone to hyperpigmentation.
• Careful sun protection and proper aftercare can help support safe healing and the best possible result.