Can IPL remove sun spots?

People ask this about sun spots, and the source uses slightly different words. Read its wording first, then match it to your skin.

The wording that applies

dermnetnz.org describes what IPL is used for: "Pigmented lesions For the treatment of age spots, freckles, flat pigmented birthmarks and other skin discolouration problems such as melasma and erythromelanosis of the neck ( poikiloderma of Civatte )."

Reading it as a directive

Look for your spot in that list. The source names age spots and freckles, so those are the words to compare your spot against. It also names melasma, so say so if that is your concern.

Steps to take

1. Photograph the spots you want treated and note when you first saw them.
2. Ask your provider whether each spot looks like an age spot, a freckle or something else.
3. Ask them to rule out anything that needs a different kind of attention first.
4. Read the MedlinePlus entry on abnormally dark or light skin so you know the general terms.

If melasma is the question

The source lists melasma, so these readings are close to the topic: a guide to melasma diagnosis and treatment, a melasma self-care page and a short piece on making melasma less noticeable.

If a term is unclear

At a Saline, Michigan visit, ask the provider to name the type of discoloration they see before they name a treatment. Ask for the diagnosis in plain words first.