Age Spots / Sun Spots in Toronto & Markham: Treating Age Spots
PicoSure Pro Single-session clearance · IPL / Q-Switched multi-device protocol · Fitzpatrick III–V Asian skin specialist · Dr. Dan Xu, M.D., CCFP
Quick Answer
Age spots (also called sun spots or solar lentigines) are flat, darkened patches caused by years of UV exposure and natural skin aging. They are benign and require no medical treatment, but many people choose to reduce their appearance for cosmetic reasons. At ID Cosmetic Clinic in Markham and Toronto, Dr. Dan Xu, M.D. personally assesses each patient and uses targeted laser or light-based treatments to break down excess melanin. Most patients see gradual improvement over 2–4 sessions, spaced several weeks apart.
View Contents (15)
- 01 Dr. Xu's Rea…
- 02 What are age spot…
- 03 5 Key Causes of A…
- 04 4 types of pigmen…
- 05 Key protocol cons…
- 06 5 Treatment Optio…
- 07 Dr. Xu’s 5-…
- 08 Age Spot Treatmen…
- 09 Am I a Candidate …
- 10 ID Medical Aesthe…
- 11 Dr. Dan Xu — M.D.…
- 12 《Timeless Asian B…
- 13 Why Is ID Cosmeti…
- 14 About the Cost of…
- 15 Risks & Cont…
Dr. Xu's Real Cases: Age Spots / Sun Spots
Real clients treated personally by Dr. Dan Xu at ID Cosmetic Clinic (Toronto / Markham). Every client signed a Media Release Form. Photos are unretouched clinical records; individual results vary with skin type and aftercare.
01Isolated Age Spots Resolved In Three-Quarter View
- Concern
- Before treatment the three-quarter view shows a few isolated, fairly dark age spots on the cheek.
- Outcome
- After treatment the isolated age spots have resolved and the cheek skin is clean with a single tone.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
02Age Spots And Dullness Improved In A Male Patient
- Concern
- Before treatment the three-quarter view shows scattered age spots on the cheek together with overall dullness.
- Outcome
- After treatment the age spots are fewer, the dullness improved and the cheek tone clearer.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
03Mature Male Spots Paler
- Concern
- Before treatment the three-quarter view shows age spots and patchy pigment on the cheek and forehead with a dark tone.
- Outcome
- After treatment the age spots and patchy pigment are paler and the cheek brighter than before.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
04Multiple Sun Spots Faded In An Older Patient
- Concern
- Before treatment the three-quarter view shows multiple dark sun spots on the cheek and forehead.
- Outcome
- After treatment the numerous sun spots on the cheek and forehead have faded, several have cleared entirely, and the skin reads more uniform.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
05Age Spots Fewer In A Male Close-Up
- Concern
- Before treatment the close-up of the eye area and cheek shows multiple dark age spots.
- Outcome
- After treatment the close-up shows fewer, paler age spots around the eye and on the cheek, and a flatter, more even tone.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
06Large Age Spots Lighter In A Male Patient
- Concern
- Before treatment the three-quarter view shows large, heavily coloured age spots on the cheek and temple.
- Outcome
- After treatment the large age spots are lighter with blurred edges, and the cheek tone more even than before.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
07Mature Scattered Age Spots Paler In Frontal View
- Concern
- Before treatment the frontal view shows scattered age spots on both cheeks and the forehead with a darker tone.
- Outcome
- After treatment the mature frontal view shows the forehead and cheek spots lighter and fewer, with a brighter tone across both areas.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
08Age Spots Fewer In An Older Patient’s Three-Quarter View
- Concern
- Before treatment the three-quarter view shows multiple age spots on the cheek and temple, some fairly large.
- Outcome
- After treatment the age spots are fewer, the larger ones clearly paler and the cheek cleaner.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
09Age Spots Faded In A Male Frontal View
- Concern
- Before treatment the frontal close-up shows dark age spots scattered on both cheeks and around the eyes.
- Outcome
- After treatment the age spots on the cheeks and around the eyes are faded, some gone, and the skin more even.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
10Sun Spots Reduced In A Male Three-Quarter View
- Concern
- Before treatment the three-quarter view shows sun spots and small marks scattered on the cheek with a darker tone.
- Outcome
- After treatment the sun spots and small marks are reduced and the cheek looks fresher.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
11Age Spots Fewer In An Older Patient’s Frontal View
- Concern
- Before treatment the frontal view shows one large age spot beside the brow and scattered spots on both cheeks.
- Outcome
- After treatment the large spot beside the brow is clearly lighter and the cheek spots fewer.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
12Multiple Age Spots Fewer In An Older Patient’s Three-Quarter View
- Concern
- Before treatment the three-quarter view shows the cheek crowded with age spots of varying size.
- Outcome
- After treatment the multiple age spots are clearly fewer and the cheek cleaner than before.
- Maintenance
- Strict sun protection; review as per the treatment schedule to maintain.
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What are age spots / sun spots? How are they different from melasma and freckles?
Age spots (also known as solar lentigines or liver spots) areCumulative long-term UV exposureAn epidermal pigmented lesion caused by localized proliferation of melanocytes in the basal layer. Typically appears after age 30–40, most commonly on the face, dorsal hands, and forearms — areas with prolonged sun exposure.Isolated, well-defined borders, asymmetrical —— This is the key distinction from melasma.
Why can a single laser session clear age spots?
Age spot pigment located inLocalized accumulation in the basal layer of the epidermis,No vascular component, no hormonal triggers, no chronic inflammation. Once laser energy shatters the pigment particles, they are cleared through the natural healing process (crusting and shedding), making recurrence unlikely.
Why do they only become visible after age 40?
Cumulative UV exposure isLinear accumulationSun exposure accumulated during childhood often does not manifest as visible pigmentation until the 30s or 40s. Among Asian Canadians — due to prolonged outdoor activity combined with intense northern UV radiation — a notable surge in age spots typically appears between the ages of 40 and 50.
Why do age spots appear more often on the back of the hands?
The skin on the back of the hands is thin, has few sebaceous glands, and sun protection is frequently overlooked. Clinically, many clients who have established a facial SPF routine continue to neglect their hands — which is why age spots on the hands are often far more prominent than those on the face.
Why Does a Physician Need to Evaluate First?
In extremely rare cases, what appears to be an age spot may in fact beMalignant melanoma / pre-squamous cell carcinoma. During consultations, Dr. Xu uses dermoscopy to conduct ABCDE assessments, and refers for dermatopathology when indicated.
⚠️ ABCDE Self-check warning:If any of your “age spots” meet the following criteria, please seek medical attention promptly — A (asymmetry) / B (irregular border) / C (uneven color) / D (diameter > 6mm)/ E(recent changes). Do not assume “laser treatment will simply clear it up.”
5 Key Causes of Age Spots
1. Cumulative UV exposure (primary cause)
UVA + UVB Repeated cumulative UV exposure activates melanocytes, with linear accumulation over 30+ years.Sun overexposure during childhoodHas the greatest lifelong impact on pigmentation distribution and is irreversible.
2. Natural aging
Skin cell turnover slows with age (approximately 28 days at age 20 versus 60 days at age 60), meaning pigment can no longer be cleared from the epidermis efficiently.
3. Genetics and skin type
A positive family history is associated with earlier onset. Asian skin (Fitzpatrick III–V) is more sensitive to cumulative UV damage than Northern European skin types.
4. Chronic inflammation / barrier damage
Prolonged use of incorrect skincare products, over-exfoliation with acids, and a compromised skin barrier can trigger stress-induced melanocyte proliferation.
5. Hormonal changes (contributing factor)
Menopause and chronic low-grade inflammation can accelerate pigment accumulation, though neither plays as decisive a role in age spots as they do in melasma.
4 types of pigmented lesions commonly mistaken for age spots
Freckles
Ephelides · Genetic predisposition from childhood| Distribution | Concentrated on the cheeks and bridge of the nose |
|---|---|
| Morphology | Small and clustered (age spots are larger and isolated) |
| Onset | Childhood |
| Seasonal variation | Darkens in summer |
| First-line treatment | PicoSure Pro Zoom Lens |
Melasma
Butterfly pattern · Hormonally induced| Distribution | Symmetrical patches on the cheekbones and cheeks |
|---|---|
| Morphology | Confluent patches (vs. discrete age spot dots) |
| Onset | 30+ Often post-partum |
| Seasonal variation | Worsens in summer |
| First-line treatment | Low-fluence fractionated protocol |
Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratosis · Waxy, raised lesion| Distribution | Appearing randomly on the face and body |
|---|---|
| Morphology | Waxy, raised surface (age spots are flat) |
| Onset | 50+ |
| Seasonal variation | None |
| First-line treatment | CO2 Laser / electrosurgical removal |
Malignant melanoma (caution!)
Melanoma · Screening is mandatory| Distribution | Any location on the body |
|---|---|
| Morphology | ABCDE abnormality (refer to warning above) |
| Onset | Any age |
| Seasonal variation | None |
| First-line treatment | Dermatology referral for biopsy + surgical management |
⚠️ Never proceed directly to laser treatment:Any spot showing recent change, asymmetry, or irregular borders must be evaluated with dermoscopy before treatment. Dr. Xu’s M.D. + CCFP credentials ensure proper assessment — not the typical MedSpa approach of “take a look and turn on the machine.”
Key protocol considerations for age spot treatment in Asian skin types
Limitations of the standard North American IPL approach
Most MedSpas in North America default to full-face IPL for age spots. While effective for Fitzpatrick I–II (lighter skin tones), this approach carries significant risks for Fitzpatrick III–V Asian skin:
- ✗ High epidermal melanin load → IPL thermal overload
- ✗ PIH Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) risk: 5–15%
- ✗ Single IPL device used for all spots, without differentiating by type
Dr. Xu’s Multi-Device Triage Protocol
| Type | Device of choice |
|---|---|
| Isolated large spot (< 5 spots) | PicoSure Pro Focus Lens Touch-up |
| Multiple facial sun spots | IPL(Low energy) + Pico touch-up |
| Back of hands / forearm spots | Q-Switched 532nm |
| Associated photoaging and skin dullness | Fotona ClearGlow + Pico |
| Suspected malignancy | Refer to dermatology for biopsy |
Key differences:Although age spots are “straightforward to treat”,Lesion type triageThis determines whether a single treatment can clear the spot or whether multiple sessions are required. Dr. Xu’s protocol is informed by 8 years of experience treating predominantly Chinese-Canadian clients, over 90% of whom are Fitzpatrick III–V.
5 Treatment Options for Age Spots
PicoSure Pro Focus Lens Touch-up
755nm Picosecond laser with Focus Lens for precise, targeted spot treatment.Isolated large spots often clear in few sessions; the photomechanical action delivers comparatively less heat to surrounding skin. Full details are on our laser sun spot removal page.
IPL Intense Pulsed Light — IPL (full face)
For multiple facial sun spots in Asian skin typesLow-energy protocol is required. Dr. Xu uses Lumenis IPL with precisely calibrated parameters to minimize the risk of PIH.
Q-Switched 532nm Q-Switched laser
First choice for large, isolated spots on the back of the hands and forearms. The 1064 nm wavelength precisely shatters pigment particles. The PicoWay laser delivers both 532 nm and 1064 nm in picosecond pulses for these spots.
Fotona ClearGlow(with photoaging)
1064nm Long-pulse + FRAC3 protocol — clears sunspots while simultaneously improving overall skin dullness and enlarged pores.
Chemical peel (superficial)
Promotes epidermal cell turnover and improves fine line texture. Can serve as a transitional or maintenance option following more intensive treatments.
Dr. Xu’s 5-Step Age Spot Treatment Protocol
Consultation + Dermoscopy + ABCDE Assessment
30 minute free consultation.Dermoscopy (dermatoscope examination) is mandatoryScreening for potential malignancy. Suspected lesions are referred directly to dermatology. This is the fundamental difference between a physician consultation and an aesthetician treatment.
Lesion type assessment + device selection
Isolated large spots are treated with Pico Focus; widespread facial spots with IPL; dorsal hand spots with Q-Switched; and cases with concurrent skin aging with Fotona® in combination. Dr. Xu matches each device to your specific presentation at triage.
2 Weeks of pre-treatment preparation
Strict SPF 50+ with iron oxide; discontinue all photosensitizing topicals; focus on barrier-repair skincare.
Primary treatment (visible results in 1 session; additional sessions available for stubborn cases)
No significant downtime — you can go about your day immediately after treatment. Crusting naturally sheds within 3–7 days.
Assessment + prevention
4 Follow-up assessment within weeks; most clients achieve resolution in a single session.Preventing new spots is more important than maintaining treatment results —— Strict mineral SPF + sun-protective clothing + wide-brim hat.
「Age spots areAccumulated UV damage from the past. “Laser can clear what’s already there, but without sun protection, new spots will keep forming.” — Dr. Dan Xu, M.D., CCFP
Age Spot Treatment Timeline
| Timing | Presentation | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Day of treatment | Temporary darkening of the spot (pigment fragments clustering before clearance) | Normal — can be covered with makeup |
| 3-7 days | Crust formation | Do not pick or peel; gentle cleansing + SPF 50+ |
| 7-10 days | Crusting sheds naturally; spots are cleared or significantly lightened | Barrier-repair skincare + ongoing sun protection |
| 2-4 weeks | Residual pigment continues to metabolize | 4 Review at weeks post-treatment; determine supplementary sessions for stubborn cases |
| 3-6 months | Stable overall clearance | No maintenance required · Focus is on preventing new spot formation |
| 1-2 years | Without sun protection, new spots may develop in other areas | Annual screening + single touch-up session when needed |
Clinical advantages:Age spots areThe most cost-effective of all pigmentation treatments —— One treatment for long-lasting clarity. Dr. Xu’s clinical data shows that in clients who follow strict sun protection, over 95% of treated spots do not recur — however, 30–40% may develop a small number of new spots in previously unaffected areas as a natural part of aging.
Am I a Candidate for Age Spot Treatment?
✅ Suitable for
- ✓ 30-70 years old, isolated spots on the face / back of hands
- ✓ Spot stable and unchanged for 6+ months (no ABCDE abnormalities)
- ✓ Willing to accept short-term crusting (3–7 days)
- ✓ Able to commit to long-term sun protection
- ✓ No sunburn or significant sun exposure in the past 4 weeks
- ✓ Willing to undergo physician Dermoscopy screening first
❌ Not suitable, or requires screening first
- ✗ Any ABCDE irregularity in the lesion → refer to dermatology first
- ✗ Rapidly enlarging or changing spots → evaluation required
- ✗ Pregnancy / breastfeeding
- ✗ 4 Sunburn within the past weeks, not yet healed
- ✗ Isotretinoin use within the past 6 months
- ✗ Severe keloid tendency not yet assessed
ID Medical Aesthetic Age Spot Protocol vs. Standard MedSpa
- ✗ Aesthetician Treatment performed without dermoscopy assessment
- ✗ Single IPL protocol applied universally
- ✗ No malignancy screening — treating directly
- ✗ Applying North American energy parameters without adjustment
- ✗ PIH Higher risk
- ✗ No plan for preventing new spot formation
- ✓ Dermoscopy performed personally by Dr. Xu, M.D./CCFP
- ✓ Pico / IPL / Q-Switched / Fotona Triage
- ✓ ABCDE assessment; any suspicious lesion is referred to dermatology
- ✓ Fitzpatrick III-V Specialty-calibrated parameters
- ✓ PIH Risks < 2%
- ✓ Sun protection + annual screening + long-term follow-up
Dr. Dan Xu — M.D. + CCFP: The physician consultation that cannot be replicated
Dr. Dan Xu (M.D., CCFP)Canadian M.D. with Family Medicine specialty certification (CCFP), registered with the CPSO. In the treatment of age spots,Physician Consultation vs. Aesthetician TreatmentThe reason: ABCDE assessment + Dermoscopy + referral to dermatology when indicated are required — these are medical judgments that cannot be performed by MedSpa operators.
Dr. Xu is a Cynosure PicoSure Pro Canada KOL (fewer than 50 nationally), an Allergan/Juvéderm North America Official Trainer, and the author of Timeless Asian Beauty. The clinic serves Toronto, Markham, Richmond Hill, North York, Vaughan, and Scarborough.
Credentials · Training · Certifications
- ✓ M.D. Canadian M.D.
- ✓ CCFP Family Medicine Specialty
- ✓ CPSO Ontario medical license (CPSO)
- ✓ Cynosure PicoSure Pro Canada KOL
- ✓ Allergan / Juvéderm North America Trainer
- ✓ Dermoscopy + ABCDE Assessment & certification
- ✓ 《Timeless Asian Beauty》Author
- ✓ Trained in Korean / Japanese pigmentation treatment systems
- ✓ Established long-term clientele of Chinese-Canadian and Asian patients with pigmentation concerns
《Timeless Asian Beauty》
Dr. Xu’s book, Timeless Asian Beauty, outlines a comprehensive pigmentation management system for Asian Canadians aged 40+. Using age spots as a prime example of “accumulated UV debt,” it provides a detailed home-care prevention checklist and annual skin-screening guide.
「Age spots are more than a cosmetic concern — they are your skin’s way of reflecting decades of cumulative UV exposure. Clearing existing spots is only the first step; building better sun protection habits is the real long-term investment in your health.”
Why Is ID Cosmetic Clinic’s Approach to Age Spot Treatment Trustworthy?
Experience
8 Years of specialty practice + 5,000 clients · 80,000 treatment areas + a long-established patient base among Asian Canadians aged 40+
Expertise
PicoSure Pro KOL + Dermoscopy + Multi-device triage capability
Authoritativeness
M.D. + CCFP + CPSO · Published author · Peer trainer
Trustworthiness
Proactive ABCDE screening · Referral to dermatology when suspicious · No pressure to proceed with treatment
This page has been written and reviewed by Dr. Dan Xu, M.D., CCFP.This page does not constitute specific medical advice —— Any pigmented lesion resembling an age spot should be assessed during a physician consultation with dermoscopy to rule out malignancy before any treatment plan is determined.
About the Cost of Age Spot / Sun Spot Treatment
Performed directly by Dr. Xu · Dermoscopy screening + individualized parameters · Recommended for atypical, recently changed, or previously failed revision cases
Performed by aesthetic technician under Dr. Xu’s protocol · Suitable for typical isolated sun spots / standard cases
PicoSure Pro + IPL + Q-Switched Multi-device combination · Full face + back of hands comprehensive protocol
Why do age spot treatment prices vary so widely in the medical aesthetic market? The difference isn’t the device — it’s the depth of assessment and clinical judgment. Every pigmented lesion that resembles an age spot must first be evaluated by a physician using dermoscopy to rule out malignancy. This medical step cannot be delegated to a technician, and it is the fundamental reason physician-led clinics have a different pricing structure than a typical MedSpa. Routine, isolated sunspots in stable cases can be performed by our trained clinical team following a physician-designed protocol, making treatment more accessible; complex, atypical, recently changed, or previously treated cases involve Dr. Xu directly throughout the entire process. Laser treatThe difference in outcomes comes down to clinical experience — physician vs. technician. All injectable treatments at our clinic are performed by the physician personally. Treatment plans are determined by your clinical needs, not by a price list.
- We accept VISA / Mastercard / Amex / Debit / E-transfer
- Affirm / PayBright financing available (select treatment packages)
- Private insurance: some commercial Extended Health Benefit (EHB) plans may cover consultation fees — inquire for individual assessment
- OHIP:Cosmetic procedures are not covered
- All first-time clients receive a 30-minuteFreeConsultation & Assessment
Risks & Contraindications
What are the main risks?
1. Temporary crusting + flaking (3–7 days, normal recovery); 2. PIH — post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (< 2%,reversible); 3. Blistering in rare cases (uncommon when appropriate protocols are followed); 4. A pinprick sensation during treatment (generally well tolerated); 5. New age spots forming in untreated areas (a natural aging process if sun protection is not maintained).
When will the physician decline to proceed with treatment directly?
Any pigmented spot showing ABCDE irregularities (asymmetry / irregular border / uneven color / diameter>6mm / recent change) → Must be referred to dermatology for biopsy first. This is not a deflection — it is a physician’s professional duty. Treating a potentially malignant lesion with laser would be a catastrophic mistake.
How should I care for my skin during the crusting phase?
(1) Do not pick or peel — allow crusts to shed naturally over 5–7 days; (2) Cleanse gently without rubbing; (3) Use B5/ceramide-based barrier-repair skincare; (4) Apply mineral SPF 50+ strictly (avoid chemical sunscreen over crusted areas); (5) For 14 days, avoid acids, exfoliating treatments, and saunas.
Will spots recur after treatment?
Treated spots do not recur (the pigment fragmented by laser is metabolized and cleared), but new spots may develop in untreated areas. This is a natural consequence of aging and cumulative UV exposure — unrelated to treatment itself. Diligent sun protection significantly delays and reduces the formation of new spots. Based on Dr. Xu’s clinical data, 95%+ of clients who maintain strict sun protection do not experience recurrence of treated spots.
Toronto Age Spots / Sun Spots Treatment FAQ
Answered personally by Dr. Dan Xu — based on the most frequently asked questions from Chinese-Canadian patients aged 40+ in Toronto and Markham.Can age spots be completely cleared?
Existing spots can be completely cleared, but new spots cannot be prevented。Once laser energy shatters existing pigment particles, they are cleared by the body's metabolic system and do not recur at the same site. However,Cumulative UV exposure continues,A small number of new spots may appear in previously unaffected areas within 1–2 years. Consistent sun protection significantly reduces new spot formation.
Why Is a Physician Consultation More Important Than Treatment by an Aesthetician?
BecauseNot All "Age Spots" Are Benign。In extremely rare cases, a pigmented lesion that appears to be an age spot may actually beMalignant melanoma / pre-squamous cell carcinoma。Dr. Xu's M.D. + CCFP qualifications allow him to perform dermoscopy and ABCDE assessment; any suspicious lesion is referred to a dermatologist for biopsy. An aesthetician does not have this capability — applying laser directly to a malignant lesion isA catastrophic mistake。
PicoSure Pro How does it compare to IPL?
ForIsolated large spot,Pico Focus Lens Precise targetingComparatively less heat to surrounding tissue; surrounding tissue unaffected、single-session clearance. IPL uses a broad-spectrum photothermal effect, making it well suited for treating multiple small spots across the full face. The two approaches are in fact complementary — Dr. Xu selects and combines them based on spot type and clinical assessment.
How many sessions are needed? Will I need repeated treatments?
Most age spots1 sessions to clear。Stubborn cases (deep pigmentation or larger surface area) may require 2 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. This isFewest sessions of any pigmentation treatment —— One treatment for long-lasting clarity.
Can Age Spots on the Back of the Hands Be Treated?
Yes, andResults may be even better than on the face(The skin on the back of the hand is more stable and carries a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Q-Switched 532 nm laser is recommended for this area, achieving over 80% clearance in a single session. However,Sun protection habits for the back of the handsis the key to maintaining results post-treatment — most people apply facial SPF consistently but completely overlook the backs of their hands.
Which Age Spots Should Raise Concern?
ABCDE Seek medical attention immediately if any abnormality is present:A A — asymmetry; B — irregular border; C — uneven color (varying shades / red-black mix); D — diameter > 6mm、E Recent changes (enlargement / color change / bleeding). These may beMalignant melanomaan early warning signal. Dermoscopy screening is performed at every consultation with Dr. Xu.
How long after treatment before I can be in the sun or go swimming?
(1) Crusting phase (7–14 days)Strictly avoidDirect sun exposure + swimming; (2) strict mineral SPF 50+ for 2 weeks after crusting has shed; (3) normal activities may resume after 1 month, howeverStrict sun protection for lifeThis is the cornerstone of preventing new spot formation. UV index is high during North American summers — a wide-brim hat, sun-protective clothing, and mineral SPF are essential for outdoor activities.
How is age spot treatment priced? Why is there such a large difference between clinics?
The difference in pricing is not in the device itself, but inAssess depth。Every pigmented lesion that looks like an age spot must first be assessed by a physician using dermoscopy to rule out malignancy — this step cannot be replaced by a technician, and it is the fundamental difference in pricing structure between a physician-led clinic and a standard MedSpa.
Routine, isolated, and stable sun spot cases may be treated by our clinical team following Dr. Xu's protocol using Pico or Q-Switched lasers, offering greater accessibility. Complex, atypical, recently changed, or revision cases are managed directly by Dr. Xu throughout the entire treatment process.Treatment plans and costs are determined by your clinical needs, not by a standard price list。First-time clients receive a 30-minuteFreeConsultation & Assessment — Dr. Xu will review your dermoscopy findings and discuss your options in detail during the consultation.
Can I wear makeup or go to work during the crusting phase?
Yes. Mineral foundation may be applied 4 hours after treatment on the day of the procedure, and returning to work the same day is generally not an issue.Important: do not pick or peel the crust,Gentle cleansing only; avoid saunas and steam rooms; avoid chemical exfoliants for 14 days. Skin will appear clear and even-toned once crusting naturally sheds.
I'm in Toronto / North York / Richmond Hill — is it worth coming to Markham for age spot treatment?
ID Cosmetic Clinic Located at 30 Gibson Dr., Markham — 30 to 40 minutes from downtown Toronto. Age spot treatmentVisible results in a single session,Choose your physician, not your proximity. An M.D. + CCFP physician can rule out malignancy — a level of medical safety that no MedSpa aesthetician can provide. One commute in exchange forRule out malignancy + single-session clearance,Excellent value for the result achieved.
Real Clients · Google Reviews
What Our Clients Say
Vivian Okoth
0 reviews
Dr. Xu and the staff here are fantastic. I’ve been coming here for years and always leave satisfied! The clinic has a relaxed, comfortable, and welcoming atmosphere—I always look forward to my visits.
Mary Jane
1 reviews
I am so grateful to the friend who recommended this place to me. Dr. Xu is amazing—she is the only doctor I’ll see from now on! Everyone on the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.
Millicent Akisa
1 reviews
She is truly outstanding! She is both friendly and professional, highly knowledgeable, and has a very warm and gentle manner. She listens carefully to your needs and takes the time to explain all the options to you.
Chen cheng
15 reviews
Vivian is extremely professional. Of all the times I've been here, her technique and service are the best. She finished my hyaluronic acid injection very quickly, with minimal pain. She's also beautiful and has a great p…
Emmaculate Matswa
1 reviews
I'm so glad I came here. Dr. Xu is incredibly knowledgeable, and every piece of advice she gave was meticulous and thoughtful. I really enjoyed talking to her about skincare. Everyone here is so warm and friendly .
Sally Yang
2 reviews
Ling was absolutely amazing! She is so friendly, kind, and welcoming. She made the whole experience so enjoyable and comfortable. Truly appreciate her warm personality and excellent service. Highly recommend!
Zara F. Bell
2 reviews
Absolutely amazing clinic. I was treated with the upmost care and respect. Felt like I've know them my whole life. The whole crew is amazing and so sweet! The service was impeccable by Dr. Dan Xu, she is literally the be…
Caroline Fan
8 reviews
I had a really pleasant visit at ID cosmetics today with Ling. I had my pico laser appointment today. Ling treated me with such kindness and care. She was really attentive prepping me for my treatment and checking in on…
Vivian Okoth
0 reviews
Dr. Xu and the staff here are fantastic. I’ve been coming here for years and always leave satisfied! The clinic has a relaxed, comfortable, and welcoming atmosphere—I always look forward to my visits.
Mary Jane
1 reviews
I am so grateful to the friend who recommended this place to me. Dr. Xu is amazing—she is the only doctor I’ll see from now on! Everyone on the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.
Millicent Akisa
1 reviews
She is truly outstanding! She is both friendly and professional, highly knowledgeable, and has a very warm and gentle manner. She listens carefully to your needs and takes the time to explain all the options to you.
Chen cheng
15 reviews
Vivian is extremely professional. Of all the times I've been here, her technique and service are the best. She finished my hyaluronic acid injection very quickly, with minimal pain. She's also beautiful and has a great p…
Emmaculate Matswa
1 reviews
I'm so glad I came here. Dr. Xu is incredibly knowledgeable, and every piece of advice she gave was meticulous and thoughtful. I really enjoyed talking to her about skincare. Everyone here is so warm and friendly .
Sally Yang
2 reviews
Ling was absolutely amazing! She is so friendly, kind, and welcoming. She made the whole experience so enjoyable and comfortable. Truly appreciate her warm personality and excellent service. Highly recommend!
Zara F. Bell
2 reviews
Absolutely amazing clinic. I was treated with the upmost care and respect. Felt like I've know them my whole life. The whole crew is amazing and so sweet! The service was impeccable by Dr. Dan Xu, she is literally the be…
Caroline Fan
8 reviews
I had a really pleasant visit at ID cosmetics today with Ling. I had my pico laser appointment today. Ling treated me with such kindness and care. She was really attentive prepping me for my treatment and checking in on…
Grace
Local Guide · 13 reviews
I got a treatment done by Ling today and she was super friendly and helpful. She made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire process from the beginning til the end and I’d like to get it done by her again next ti…
Yvonne H
Local Guide · 54 reviews
Ling was so kind and super precise. I loved her recommendations—felt like she just knew what I needed! Thank you!
Dou Xu
2 reviews
Ling is just amazing—so gentle and professional. She really knows her stuff! I felt super cared for. The whole experience? Honestly, so relaxing.
Yan Sun
3 reviews
Dr. Dan Xu is seriously amazing—so skilled and patient! Felt super at ease the entire time. The results? Wow, just wow.
Olivia W
3 reviews
Entrusting my face to Dr. Xu and her team is reassuring, and everyone's service attitude is super nice. The clinic environment is clean and elegant, and Dr. Xu is enthusiastic and professional. I have always trusted her…
Hana Yu
9 reviews
I have been here since 3 years ago, Dr.Xu is very professional and all the staff are very nice and patient. I highly recommend this place!
xiaojie chen
7 reviews
Susie has an incredibly caring attitude, and all of her suggestions were truly helpful. I really appreciated her support!
Jackie Tse
Local Guide · 18 reviews
Dr Xu is very friendly and professional. Appointment was made quickly and the consultants provided professional and helpful advice. After the procedure, the consultant provided advice on after care and treatment plans. H…
Grace
Local Guide · 13 reviews
I got a treatment done by Ling today and she was super friendly and helpful. She made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire process from the beginning til the end and I’d like to get it done by her again next ti…
Yvonne H
Local Guide · 54 reviews
Ling was so kind and super precise. I loved her recommendations—felt like she just knew what I needed! Thank you!
Dou Xu
2 reviews
Ling is just amazing—so gentle and professional. She really knows her stuff! I felt super cared for. The whole experience? Honestly, so relaxing.
Yan Sun
3 reviews
Dr. Dan Xu is seriously amazing—so skilled and patient! Felt super at ease the entire time. The results? Wow, just wow.
Olivia W
3 reviews
Entrusting my face to Dr. Xu and her team is reassuring, and everyone's service attitude is super nice. The clinic environment is clean and elegant, and Dr. Xu is enthusiastic and professional. I have always trusted her…
Hana Yu
9 reviews
I have been here since 3 years ago, Dr.Xu is very professional and all the staff are very nice and patient. I highly recommend this place!
xiaojie chen
7 reviews
Susie has an incredibly caring attitude, and all of her suggestions were truly helpful. I really appreciated her support!
Jackie Tse
Local Guide · 18 reviews
Dr Xu is very friendly and professional. Appointment was made quickly and the consultants provided professional and helpful advice. After the procedure, the consultant provided advice on after care and treatment plans. H…
Ready to Clear Your Age Spots?
30 Free consultation + Dermoscopy screening for malignancy + ABCDE assessment + personalized treatment plan. We rule out malignancy first, then determine whether laser treatment is appropriate — this is the core value of a physician-led consultation.
Serving Downtown Toronto · Markham · Richmond Hill · North York · Vaughan · Scarborough and surrounding areas
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Every consultation is conducted personally by Dr. Xu (Mon–Sat).
24 hr response · English/Chinese OK
Technology defines the possibilities. The physician defines the direction.
Identify with your own beauty.
