FRECKLES, AGE SPOTS AND BIRTHMARKS, for some of us, are not cherished as beauty marks. The ND-YAG laser can lighten brown spots and return your skin to a more-even color.

(RECOVERY TIME: SEVEN DAYS (FACE), 14 DAYS (HANDS AND BODY))

To treat the skin, Dr. Rotter passes the laser over the affected areas. The laser emits short flashes, or pulses, of light that zero in on concentrations of pigment (melanin).

The melanin destructs as it rapidly absorbs the laser light energy, and the spots disappear. The pulses feel like the snap of a rubber band.

Treatment takes only a few minutes. The area may feel sunburned for a couple of days, and then brown spots will peel off and may stay pink for a few weeks. Treatments can be repeated as often as needed and may be used in conjunction with chemical peels.