How to Remove Dark Blemishes

How to Remove Dark Blemishes
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Dark blemishes usually occur when your skin produces too much pigment in one spot, according to MedlinePlus. Dark blemishes will absorb certain kinds of light that healthy skin doesn't, which makes laser therapy an effective treatment. Freckles, moles, liver spots, age spots and dark scars are all examples of blemishes that may benefit from laser therapy. These dark spots are usually harmless, but they can indicate serious forms of skin cancer or underlying hormone conditions, so it's best to check with your doctor before beginning any type of treatment.

Step 1

Schedule an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist to make sure you're eligible to receive laser treatments. If you have certain medical conditions such as lupus or keloids, you shouldn't have the procedure. And some dark skin types or skin conditions aren't ideal for laser treatments.

Step 2

Prepare your skin for the procedure. Avoid the sun and let your natural or artificial tan fade as much as possible. Keep your skin free of harsh lotions, soaps, cosmetics and other skin-care treatments for at least a weak before each procedure. Ask your dermatologist if it's safe to continue your acne regimen.

Step 3

Plan on going back to your normal daily activities after the procedure because laser skin treatments require very little recovery. Most treatments conclude in less than an hour.

Step 4

Apply the after-treatment products given to you by your dermatologist. Depending on the size of the area and your skin's response to the laser, you could be given antibiotic ointment, a topical pain reliever or a soothing aloe-vera gel.

Step 5

Talk about your progress with your doctor at your first follow-up visit. The size of your blemishes and the success of your first treatment will determine how many additional laser treatments you'll need. Most patients need at least two to three treatments, according to Dermatologist Peter Vignjevic.

References

Article reviewed by RandyS Last updated on: Nov 10, 2010

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