What is Freckles & Sun Spots (Lentigines)?

Freckles(ephelides) are small, light brown spots that tend to appear in childhood, darken in summer and fade in winter. They are strongly influenced by genetics and sun exposure. Sun spots, also called solar lentigines or age spots, are flat brown spots that develop on sun-exposed areas such as the face, hands and forearms, usually from adulthood onward. Both are caused by increased melanin in the upper layers of the skin and are generally harmless, but they can make the complexion look uneven.

It is important that any pigmented spot is assessed by a dermatologist, because some skin cancers can look like harmless spots.

Who it's for

This treatment may be suitable if you have:

• Scattered freckles across the nose and cheeks
• Flat brown sun spots on the face or hands
• Spots that have darkened with sun exposure
• Localized pigmentation around the cheekbones
• Uneven skin tone from accumulated sun damage

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

Your dermatologist examines each spot, often with magnification, to confirm it is a benign freckle or lentigo and to identify any pigmentation, such as melasma, that needs a different approach. Treatment then focuses on the target spots:

• Partial pigment laser: RevLite and Excel V use multiple wavelengths to break down pigment in the epidermis and dermis, and the fragments are gradually cleared by the body
• Collagen support: the laser's gentle heat may also stimulate collagen with limited surface damage
• Adjustable areas: the full face, cheekbones, front and side cheeks and nasolabial area can be treated
• Complementary care: toning laser or topical products may be recommended if you also have diffuse pigmentation

What to expect

Treatment is quick, usually five to ten minutes. You may feel a brief snapping sensation. Afterward, treated spots can darken and form fine crusts that flake off naturally over about a week. Warmth and redness usually subside within one to two days. Many people see noticeable fading after one session, though some spots need two or three sessions spaced three to four weeks apart. New spots may appear with future sun exposure, so regular maintenance and sun protection help. Possible side effects include temporary redness, swelling and, less commonly, temporary darkening or lightening of the treated area. Results vary.

Aftercare

• Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, saunas and spas for about three days
• Let crusts fall off naturally; do not pick or scrub them
• Apply sunscreen daily and limit sun exposure
• Keep the skin moisturized with a gentle product
• Avoid peeling products and strong actives until the skin has healed

Frequently asked questions

Will freckles come back after laser?

Treated spots can fade significantly, but new freckles and sun spots may develop with sun exposure. Consistent sun protection helps maintain results.

Is laser suitable for all brown spots?

No. Melasma and some other pigment conditions need a gentler approach, and suspicious spots may need further evaluation. That is why a dermatologist assesses each spot first.

Can I wear makeup after treatment?

Light makeup is usually possible, but avoid rubbing the crusted spots. Your dermatologist will give specific instructions.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors, directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 (Line 3). We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. Book a consultation to have your spots checked and to plan treatment. Call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.