Sun Spot Treatment & Care at Advanced Dermatology, P.C.

Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of skin discoloration, and one of the most common signs is the development of sun spots.

Also called age spots or solar lentigines, these flat, dark patches can make your skin appear older, uneven, or prematurely damaged.

At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we offer targeted sun spot treatment options designed to reduce or remove discoloration while improving skin tone and texture.

Whether you’re concerned about spots on your face, hands, or chest, our board-certified dermatologists can help you understand the cause and choose the right treatment plan.

What Are Sun Spots?

Sun spots are a dermatological condition that causes areas of excess pigmentation after prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

These flat, tan-to-dark brown spots typically appear on skin areas most exposed to the sun, such as the face, shoulders, arms, and hands.

They are not harmful, but they can be a cosmetic concern for many patients, and in some cases, they may resemble other skin conditions that require professional evaluation.

What Does a Sun Spot Look Like?

Sun spots are usually:

Flat and oval-shaped.
Tan, brown, or black in color.
Roughly the size of a freckle or larger.
Found on sun-exposed areas of the body.

Symptoms of Sun Spots

While sun spots are painless, they may be accompanied by:

Uneven skin tone or blotchy patches.
New or changing pigmentation that worsens with age or sun exposure.
A gradual increase in size or number of dark spots over time.

Early Signs and Indicators of Sun Spots

Early signs often include faint discoloration on the cheeks, nose, chest, or hands that becomes darker or more visible after spending time outdoors.

If you notice new spots forming, especially after sunburns or tanning, it’s essential to seek a dermatological exam to confirm that they’re benign.

What Causes Sun Spots?

The primary cause of sun spots is repeated UV exposure from sunlight or tanning beds. UV rays accelerate melanin production, and over time, this pigment builds up in clusters, especially in areas frequently exposed to light.

Other contributing factors include:

Genetics and skin type.
Hormonal changes (as in melasma).
Skin inflammation or trauma.
Aging and slower skin cell turnover.

Types of Sun Spots

Sun spots are often grouped into broader pigment-related skin conditions. Understanding the type of discoloration helps determine the most effective treatment.

Common types include:

Age Spots (Liver Spots): Flat brown patches that develop with age and sun exposure.
Freckles and Moles: Small, genetic pigment spots that may darken with UV exposure.
Melasma and Other Pigmentation Issues: Hormonal pigment disorders often worsened by sun exposure.
Solar Lentigines: Larger, more persistent sun spots commonly seen on the face and hands.
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark marks that appear after acne or skin irritation, sometimes triggered by sun exposure.

Effective Treatments for Sun Spots

At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we offer a wide range of safe and effective treatments to fade or remove sun spots, depending on your skin type and goals.

Options include:

Topical Treatments: Prescription creams with hydroquinone, retinoids, or vitamin C can gradually lighten discoloration and improve overall tone.
Laser Treatment for Sun Spots: Advanced laser therapy targets pigment directly, breaking it down for the body to naturally absorb and fade. Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results.
Chemical Peels and Other Procedures: Controlled exfoliation with professional-strength acids can help resurface the skin, improve texture, and reduce the visibility of sun spots.

Your dermatologist will evaluate your skin and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

How to Get Rid of Sun Spots Permanently

While some sun spots can be completely removed, outcomes vary depending on skin tone, the age of the spot, and the treatment method.

Laser therapy and professional peels often deliver the most dramatic results, especially when combined with a long-term skincare routine.

Preventing new spots and maintaining results requires consistent sun protection and routine follow-up care.

How to Prevent Sun Spots

Preventive skin care is key to minimizing future sun damage.

You can help protect your skin by:

Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily.
Reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors.
Avoiding peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
Avoiding tanning beds or sun lamps.
Using antioxidant-rich skin care products.

Regular skin checks with your dermatologist can also help monitor changes and prevent more serious conditions.

Consult a Dermatologist for Sun Spot Diagnosis and Treatment Near You

If you’re noticing changes in your skin tone or want to address sun damage spots, our dermatologists can help.

At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we offer comprehensive care to evaluate and treat skin discoloration using advanced technology and personalized expertise.

Don’t wait to regain your skin’s natural clarity and confidence. Book a consultation today to get started.