Brown spots are flat areas of darker pigmentation that commonly develop on skin frequently exposed to ultraviolet light. They may appear on the face, hands, shoulders, arms, and other sun-exposed areas and can vary in size and color.
Sometimes called age spots or liver spots, these areas are often associated with accumulated sun exposure and become more common with age. Unlike freckles, they may not fade on their own over time.
Steele Creek Dermatology offers cosmetic dermatology treatments that may help improve brown spots, uneven pigmentation, and other concerns related to skin tone.
COMMON AREAS FOR BROWN SPOTS
- Face
- Hands
- Shoulders
- Arms
- Other areas frequently exposed to the sun
WHAT CAUSES BROWN SPOTS AND DISCOLORATION?
Ultraviolet exposure from the sun, tanning beds, and sun lamps can contribute to the development of brown spots by affecting pigment in the skin. These changes may become more noticeable after years of cumulative exposure.
Discoloration can have different causes, so not every dark spot should automatically be assumed to be an age spot. A dermatology evaluation can help identify the type of pigmentation present and determine whether cosmetic treatment is appropriate.
Patients with discoloration related to long-term UV exposure may also notice other signs of sun damage.
Brown spots and discoloration treatment depends on the type of pigmentation, its location, and your treatment goals. Several cosmetic treatments may be considered based on the appearance and cause of the discoloration.
Treatment options for brown spots and discoloration:
CHEMICAL PEELS
Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin and may help improve dark spots, uneven tone, and other visible signs of sun exposure.
IPL uses targeted light energy to address pigmented lesions, freckles, age spots, redness, and visible sun damage.
Clear + Brilliant® is a laser skin rejuvenation treatment that may help improve overall skin tone and texture.
CoolPeel uses fractional CO2 laser technology to resurface damaged skin and may improve uneven tone along with other visible signs of sun damage.
Your provider can evaluate your pigmentation and recommend a treatment based on your skin, the type of discoloration present, and your individual goals.
THE TREATMENTS BELOW CAN HELP WITH BROWN SPOTS AND DISCOLORATION:
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