Most skin concerns are treatable — but the right treatment depends entirely on what is actually causing the problem. A treatment that clears sun spots beautifully can make melasma worse. Here is how Dr. Susan Lin matches concern to treatment at MD Laser & Cosmetics in San Mateo.
Brown spots, melasma, and uneven tone
These look similar but behave very differently. Sun-related brown spots often respond well to IPL Photofacial (from $500), while melasma — which is hormone-driven — usually does better with medical-grade peels and physician-selected topical regimens, and can be aggravated by the wrong light-based treatment.
Read our full guide to treating hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone →
Acne and acne scarring
Active acne and the scarring it leaves need different tools. Isolaz and medical-grade chemical peels (from $250) address active breakouts, while microneedling is our preferred approach for textural scarring, including ice-pick scars, because it allows precise depth control without thermal damage.
Explore acne treatment options →
Fine lines, wrinkles, and volume loss
Lines caused by movement respond to Botox and Dysport (from $300). Hollowing and folds caused by volume loss need dermal fillers (from $650 per syringe). Many natural-looking plans use both.
Botox vs. fillers: which do you actually need? →
Skin texture, pores, and overall dullness
Microneedling stimulates your own collagen to refine texture and pores. Growth factor and exosome therapy adds a regenerative layer and is often paired with microneedling for skin renewal.
Microneedling vs. IPL: which is right for your skin? →
Why the evaluation comes first
Matching treatment to cause is what separates a good result from an expensive disappointment — and it is especially important across different skin tones, where inflammation and incorrect settings can leave lasting pigmentation. Every treatment here is performed personally by Dr. Lin, who has practiced in the Bay Area since 1991.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best treatment for brown spots vs melasma?
Sun-related brown spots often respond well to IPL Photofacial, while melasma is hormone-driven and usually does better with medical peels and physician-selected topicals. The wrong light-based treatment can worsen melasma.
Do I need Botox or filler for my lines?
Lines caused by movement respond to Botox or Dysport. Hollowing and folds from volume loss need dermal fillers. Many natural-looking plans use both.
What treats acne scars best?
Microneedling is our preferred approach for textural scarring including ice-pick scars, because it allows precise depth control without the thermal damage that can trigger pigmentation.
Not sure which treatment fits your skin? Every treatment at MD Laser & Cosmetics in San Mateo is performed personally by Dr. Susan Lin, M.D. Learn more or book a consultation.
