Age Spots & Hyperpigmentation
Understanding Age Spots
What are Age Spots?
Age spots, also known as liver spots, are flat, brown patches on the skin's surface that are caused by the buildup of melanin (pigment). They are most common in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, and shoulders. They also become more frequent with age. While age spots are harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern for many patients.
Age Spots vs Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a broader term referring to any darkening of the skin. Hyperpigmentation can be triggered by sun exposure, aging, or hormonal changes. Both conditions are more noticeable on lighter skin tones and darken with ongoing sun exposure.
What to look for:
- Darkened patches
- Irregular borders
- Gradual development, meaning they darken with sun exposure
- Smooth texture, no change in the skin’s texture
Treatmenting Age Spots and Hyperpigmentation
Several treatments are available to help reduce the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation, depending on your skin type, the severity of the condition, and your specific goals.
Topical treatments:
Creams and serums with active ingredients can help fade discoloration by slowing melanin production and increasing cell turnover. Common topical treatments include hydroquinone, kojic acid, and retinoids, such as tretinoin.
These products require consistent usage over time to be effective. These products can cause sun sensitivity, so using daily sunscreen is essential for treatment success.
Chemical Peels:
Chemical peels involve applying a solution that exfoliates the top layer of the skin. This reveals a brighter and more even skin complexion. For optimal results, this treatment is often performed in a series of sessions. This treatment may cause temporary redness and increased sensitivity to the sun.
Laser Treatments:
At Oak Dermatology, we specialize in laser therapy as an advanced option for treating stubborn age spots and pigmentation concerns. A laser is used to target and break apart clusters of excess melanin in the skin. This gradually fades the appearance of dark spots.
- A Q-switched laser is used for deeper and darker spots
- Fractional CO2 lasers are used to improve the skin’s overall tone and texture.
Our laser fellowship-trained dermatologists, Dr. Hsu and Dr. Bhatia, are highly experienced in using laser technology and will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your skin needs and cosmetic goals.
Age Spots & Hyperpigmentation
FAQs
Sun protection is key! Regularly applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and limiting sun exposure can help prevent future spots.
Age spots are benign. However, if you notice any changes in the size, shape, or color of a spot, consult a dermatologist for evaluation.
While some home remedies may lighten age spots, they may not be as effective as professional treatments. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended for the best results.
Professional treatments offer more targeted and effective solutions for fading age spots compared to home remedies. They can also provide faster and longer-lasting results.
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