Telling Lentigo From Spots and Pigment Laser Care

First published: 2024-10-30 / Last reviewed: 2026-05-28

This is a guide to Discovery Ruby compiled by Dr. Choi Byeong-geun of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk (3 minutes walk from Konkuk Univ. Station Exit 1).

When brown blemishes start to appear on your face, it's not easy to distinguish whether they are lentigines, seborrheic keratoses, or just simple moles. Even if the color and shape are similar, the care methods can differ, so I learned that it is important to first precisely identify what kind of pigmentation it is and then manage it with the appropriate method.

Sun exposure is cited as the biggest cause of lentigines, but skin type, genetics, and hormonal changes can also play a role. They mainly appear on the face, back of the hands, and neck, and while it might seem like they will disappear if left alone, they tend to become more distinct over time.

Just as everyone's face is different, lentigines are also categorized by their size, color, and shape.

• Simple lentigo
• Solar lentigo (the most common type), caused by sun exposure
• Distribution patterns with varying locations and sizes

As the types and locations differ, I was told that a one-on-one plan considering one's skin type is important.

The pigmentation laser that I received help from this time was equipped with AutoDerm technology, which targets and irradiates only pigmentation. It not only recognizes the location of the pigmentation but also tracks it, allowing for energy adjustment according to the pigmented area based on real-time lesion data. It is said to be frequently chosen by those who have not seen significant improvement with existing methods or who wish to refine light and widely spread pigmentation.

The VSLS technology, which induces capillary constriction, is patented and constricts blood vessels in the pigmented area, reducing the burden of vascular damage, redness, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. In addition, the CPTL technology, a contact cooling method, continuously maintains the cooling temperature, helping to protect the surrounding skin even when strong energy is irradiated.

If it's difficult to distinguish the type of pigmentation, try inquiring first via consultation chat.

Even if pigmentation appears simultaneously on the face, its depth may not be uniform. It was impressive that the intensity was automatically adjusted to deliver energy relatively uniformly to the depth where the pigmentation was located. There wasn't just one mode, but three: Single, AutoDerm, and Semi Auto Derm, allowing for meticulous treatment tailored to the target.

Covering lentigines with makeup can be a short-term solution, but it can be difficult to cover, and thickly applied cosmetics can cause irritation, potentially leading to problems. It can also clog pores and lead to breakouts, so I thought it was better to care for them when they start to become noticeable.

Lentigines have a larger amount of pigment and are more widely distributed than general blemishes, making them difficult to treat systematically, and responses can vary depending on individual differences. Therefore, I felt it was best to proceed at a place where one can receive thorough guidance on how much care is needed and how to manage it afterward.

Pigmentation that is prone to becoming more distinct if left untreated requires precise confirmation before self-diagnosis. Consult to find the right method for your pigmentation. If you are also concerned about moles or seborrheic keratoses, you can also consider CO2 laser for moles/seborrheic keratoses or Discovery PicoGenesis Rejuvenation.

Authored by: Dr. Choi Byeong-geun (Chief Director of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk / Member of the Korean Academy of Laser Dermatology and Hair, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Medicine, Korean Filler Society, etc.) Last reviewed: 2026-05-28

This article is for general information about procedures and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. The suitability and results of procedures may vary by individual.