Introduction
Skin spots are one of the most frequent dermatological consultations. Beyond an aesthetic concern, they may be a sign of alterations in skin quality or in its capacity for regeneration.
At Clínica Planas, a reference in dermatology and laser treatments in Barcelona, we approach facial spots from a comprehensive medical perspective: precise diagnosis, advanced technology and personalized treatment to achieve more even and healthy skin.
We must not forget that sometimes stains may reflect another internal disease, which should be discarded.
On the other hand, we should take into account that visible stains are like “the tip of the iceberg” of the existing skin damage. All the skin should be evaluated and handled properly because many times there are non-visible lesions that may show later if not treated before.
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Why do spots appear on the face?
The appearance of spots on the skin is, in many cases, a defense mechanism. When the dermis loses thickness or quality, the skin reacts by producing more pigment (melanin) to protect the inner layers from ultraviolet radiation.
The spot acts as a natural “shield.” The problem arises when only the visible pigmentation is removed without regenerating the weakened dermis. In these cases, the spot reappears over time.
In addition, spots tend to deepen progressively. Like an iceberg, what we see on the surface does not reflect the entire lesion in depth. Therefore, the more recent the spot, the higher the probability of removing it completely. Older lesions require more specific treatments and advanced technology.
Main causes of facial spots
Facial spots can appear due to multiple factors:
- Chronic sun exposure..
- Alteration of the skin barrier.
- Hormonal changes (activation of the melanocyte).
- Medication treatments.
- Chronic low-grade inflammation.
- Acne or rosacea.
- Genetic factors.
- Vascular alterations.
The sun is one of the most determining factors: it deteriorates skin quality and stimulates melanin production as a protective mechanism.
Types of facial spots
Brown spots
They include solar lentigines, seborrheic keratoses, freckles, melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
It is essential that any pigmented spot be evaluated by a specialist, as some malignant lesions may be confused with benign spots.
<H3> Dark spots (melasma)</H3>
Melasma is one of the most frequent facial spots. It appears as a brown or coffee-with-milk pigmentation and is usually related to:
- Hormonal factors.
- Sun exposure.
- Alteration of the skin barrie.
In these cases, the skin increases its coloration by one or two tones as a defensive mechanism.
Red spots
Red spots are usually associated with couperosis, a condition characterized by the dilation of the dermal vascular network, which causes facial redness, especially with temperature changes.
There may also be congenital vascular lesions or angiomas (cherry angiomas).
White spots
White spots appear when the melanocyte stops producing melanin or when deep damage to the dermis has occurred. They are common after prolonged sun exposure, especially on forearms and legs.
Localized and diffuse hyperpigmentation
Some spots are not clearly defined but appear in a diffuse manner. They are usually related to hormonal factors, medication, or accumulated sun damage.
In these cases, treatment usually requires a progressive and maintenance-based approach.
Treatments for facial spots
At Clínica Planas, we do not apply a single standard treatment. We select the technology based on the type of spot, its depth, and its origin.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
Treatment with intense pulsed light (IPL) is a non-invasive technique that uses broad-spectrum light pulses to act on different skin structures. This light passes through the skin surface and is absorbed by areas with pigmentation or irregularities, allowing multiple aesthetic goals to be addressed simultaneously: evening out skin tone, reducing sun spots, softening redness, and improving overall texture. The light energy also stimulates the skin’s natural mechanisms to promote the formation of collagen and elastin, essential elements for a firmer and more radiant dermis. Among the main benefits of IPL are its ability to homogenize skin tone and blur spots, as well as to refine pores and improve skin quality, providing a more even and healthy appearance. It is a procedure that does not require anesthesia, with minimal discomfort and no prolonged recovery time, allowing you to continue your usual activities after each session.
CO2 Laser
The CO₂ Ultrapulse Alpha laser represents an advanced evolution within ablative CO₂ lasers. Its main innovation is the emission of ultra-short pulses with extremely high precision, allowing it to act very selectively on the tissue being treated, minimizing thermal impact on surrounding areas. This precision results in more controlled cutting, greater preservation of healthy tissues, and a more comfortable recovery for the patient. In rejuvenation treatments, for example, the laser creates thermal microcolumns in the skin that stimulate the formation of new collagen and elastin, promoting a more compact and structured dermis. Thanks to its ability to reach different depth levels, the CO₂ laser can treat everything from superficial lesions to deeper alterations such as scars, gravitational wrinkles, or acne sequelae. In addition to improving specific lesions, its application helps refine pores, homogenize texture, and increase skin luminosity. Sessions are performed in consultation, with anesthesia adapted to each case, and recovery is based on maintaining proper skin hydration during the initial healing phase to optimize results and promote regeneration from the base.
Chemical peels
Medical peels allow certain hyperpigmentations to be treated through a controlled chemical approach. For melasma, there are specific protocols such as Dermamelan, indicated in cases of pigmentation of hormonal origin.
What is the best treatment for facial spots for me?
It is one of the most frequent questions. The answer is clear: it depends on the diagnosis.
Not all spots are treated the same. The therapeutic plan varies according to:
- Depth of the lesion.
- Presence or absence of volume.
- Hormonal, pigmentary or traumatic origin.
- Skin type and genetic characteristics.
Without a precise diagnosis, treatment may be incomplete or ineffective. That is why, at Clínica Planas, we carry out an individualized medical assessment before indicating any procedure.
Why choose Clínica Planas for facial spot treatment??
Effectiveness in removing spots depends on two fundamental factors: technology and experience.
At Clínica Planas, we have:
- 19 laser platforms to adapt treatment to each case.
- Advanced dermatological diagnosis.
- Extensive experience in dermatological laser treatments.
It is not only about removing the spot, but about treating its origin to reduce the risk of recurrence.
F.A.Q.
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How to know if a spot on the face is benign or malignant?
It is necessary to perform dermatoscopy and, in some cases, a biopsy. At Clínica Planas, we carry out all necessary diagnostic tests to ensure a safe diagnosis.
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Do dermatologists recommend removing age spots?
Yes. Not only for aesthetic reasons, but also for prevention. Some lesions may degenerate over time. Treating them early reduces future risks.
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How much does laser treatment to remove facial spots cost?
The price of facial spot treatment depends on the type of lesion, the technology used, and the number of sessions required. After medical evaluation, a personalized quote is established. <H3> How many laser sessions are needed to remove facial spots? </H3> It depends on the type of spot:
- Lesions treated with CO₂ laser: one session may be sufficient.
- Spots requiring skin regeneration: at least three sessions.
- Superficial lesions in young patients: two sessions may be sufficient.
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What do spots look like after laser treatment?
After laser treatment, the spot may temporarily darken before lightening or gradually shedding. With an appropriate protocol and medical follow-up, the result is more even skin of better quality.
Expert opinion
Dra. Christina Schepers
Dr. Martín Hernández
Member of the medical team at Clínica Planas.
Dra. Montserrat Planas
Member of the medical team at Clínica Planas.