At the Skin and Beauty Center of California, our doctors regularly see patients concerned about sunspots’ appearance. These dark spots on the skin can become extremely noticeable and may be difficult for patients to cover with cosmetics such as foundation or concealer. By working with our dermatological team, patients can learn more about ways to treat the issue in a safe and effective manner.
What are sunspots?
Sunspots are a type of dark spot that can form on the skin after exposure to the sun. They’re also called solar lentigines or age spots. Most sunspots are harmless and don’t require treatment. But some people may want to get rid of them for cosmetic reasons.
How can I get rid of sunspots?
There are a number of ways to lighten or remove sunspots. The doctors at Skin and Beauty Center of California may make a few recommendations based on your unique needs, including:
- Topical bleaching creams: These contain ingredients like hydroquinone or kojic acid, which can help to lighten the skin. Topical bleaching creams are not available over-the-counter and require a prescription from a dermatologist.
- Laser therapy: This uses intense beams of light to target and destroys melanin in the skin. It can be effective for larger sunspots. This form of skin resurfacing can also address other issues that may be present, including poor skin texture and tone or fine lines and wrinkles. There are a number of different laser and light-based therapies that can address many of these concerns with a series of regular treatments.
- Dermabrasion: This type of treatment exfoliates the top layer of skin to remove damaged skin cells. It can be effective for larger sunspots as well as other skin texture issues patients might be concerned about.
Schedule an evaluation to learn more about sunspot removal
If you are concerned about a sunspot, it is best to see a dermatologist for an evaluation. They can help to determine if the spot is harmless or if treatment is necessary. Call one of our six convenient locations to learn more about this and other skin services available at our state-of-the-art facility.