Sunspots and sun damage, sometimes referred to as liver spots or age spots, are small, flat and dark areas on the skin. They typically show up on parts of the body that receive a lot of sun exposure such as the face, hands, arms and shoulders. Most common in older people, anyone can get them if they spend too much time exposed to the sun.
Sunspots are most common in adults with light skin but they can appear on anybody. Signs of sun damage include:
The cumulative effect of sun damage leads to varying physical changes to the skin. The descriptions below help identify what some of these changes can be:
Sunspots or sun damage are caused by exposure to the UV light in the sun or in commercial tanning beds. This exposure causes the pigment cells in the skin to become overactive. Those with lighter skin tones or who have a history of sunburn or excess sun exposure are more likely to develop the condition.
AFTER TREATMENTS WITH LIMELIGHT AND HARMONY
AFTER 3 TREATMENTS WITH LIMELIGHT AND MICROPEN
AFTER TREATMENTS WITH VARILITE
PRE AND POST SERIES OF 3 TREATMENTS WITH IPL
BEFORE BRIGHTENING PEEL LEVEL 2 AND 6 WEEKS POST BRIGHTENING PEEL LEVEL 2
BEFORE BRIGHTENING PEEL LEVEL 2 AND 6 WEEKS POST BRIGHTENING PEEL LEVEL 2
IPL — 1 WEEK AFTER TREATMENT
Treatment depends on a number of factors including skin type, location and extent of sun damage. Your provider will discuss the best treatment options for your specific areas of concern.
Topical products are available to lighten unwanted sun spots on the skin. These products range from over-the-counter lighteners or brighteners to prescription grade hydroquinone.There are several topical treatments to target actinic keratoses focally or over a large area. Expected effects can include irritation and redness so it is important to discuss proper use of the medication with your doctor.
