Laser treatment for age spots
Here at Bristol Laser Centre we offer laser treatment for age spots on your hands, face, and body.
Age spots are flat patches of brown pigmentation. They usually fade well with laser treatment but more than one treatment may be required.
It is important to check that any brown lesions or patches of skin are benign before any laser treatment can start. Because it may be some time before we can see you, we advise you to see your GP or dermatologist first to check your lesion has no suspicious features that may mean a different treatment is needed.
What does treatment involve?
We use a Qswitched NdYAG laser to treat age spots. 2 or 3 treatments may be needed to get the maximum amount of fading. Sometimes age spots come back after a few years and need further laser treatment.
You will need to look after your skin carefully for 1-2 weeks after each treatment. You should also use a high factor sunblock on the area after treatment to help the spot fade and reduce the risk of it coming back. Our specialist will advise you how to look after your skin.
What are the risks of laser treatment?
The risk of scarring from treatment with the Qswitched NdYAG laser is very low.
Occasionally the treatment can cause the natural pigment of your skin to decrease or increase, leaving a paler or darker mark where the treatment has been. This usually returns to normal but can take a long time to do so.
The risk of side-effects is higher if you have a suntan when treated so you should protect the area from the sun and wear sun block before and during the course of treatment.
Laser treatment may not be suitable for people with very dark skin because of the increased risk of side-effects.
The risks of treatment will be full discussed with you at your consultation.
Funding for laser treatment
Laser treatment for age spots is not routinely funded on the NHS. In severe or exceptional conditions the Exceptional Funding Panel in your area may consider this. If you think you may be eligible, discuss this with your GP.
If you cannot get NHS funding you can self-fund your consultation and treatment at Bristol Laser Centre. We offer a sensitive, personal, honest approach.
An initial consultation with a specialist doctor is always required. This costs £120. During the initial consultation you will discuss your specific needs. We may then offer a test patch to show how well you may respond to the treatment.
Age spot laser treatment sessions start from £145 per session.
How do I book in?
If you have any questions or would like to arrange a consultation, please phone us on 0117 414 1212.
Or fill in our online form: Contact Bristol Laser Centre
© North Bristol NHS Trust. This edition published April 2025. Review due April 2028. NBT003787
Contact Bristol Laser Centre
If you are already attending the Laser Centre, please phone 0117 414 1212.
If you are a new patient, would like to get on our waiting list, or have any queries please use our Contact form or phone us on 0117 414 1212.