Often appearing in the later years of life due to prolonged sun exposure, age spots, sometimes unsightly in their tan-brown hue, can be professionally addressed at Northstar Dermatology. Their certified skin specialists propose a range of treatments to either lessen or completely remove these sun-induced marks. Furthermore, they devise strategies to assist in shielding against potential sun damages. To explore treatments for age spots, reach out to their office or book a consultation online.
Also known as solar lentigines or liver spots, age spots manifest as brownish or tanned patches on the skin. These patches are the consequence of enduring UV exposure, either from natural sunlight or tanning devices. Common sites for their appearance include the face and hands, but they can emerge on any part of the body.
Melanin, the natural pigment responsible for skin’s coloration, increases in production upon UV exposure, leading to the tanning effect. The uneven clustering of melanin cells, which darken more rapidly than adjacent skin, results in the formation of age spots.
Though age spots aren’t precursors to skin cancer and don’t amplify cancer risk, it’s imperative to distinguish them from other potentially harmful brown spots. Observing changes in the spot’s size, shape, color, or any bleeding warrants an immediate evaluation at Northstar Dermatology. Such alterations could indicate skin cancer.
While sun protection might not reverse existing age spots, it’s pivotal in forestalling the appearance of new ones.
As age spots are primarily cosmetic concerns without medical implications, treatment is optional and based on aesthetic preferences. Should you opt for cosmetic enhancement, Northstar Dermatology presents multiple therapeutic avenues:
Topical Medications
Regular use of prescribed brightening creams can progressively fade age spots.
Laser Procedures
State-of-the-art lasers target only the brownish pigment, ensuring adjacent skin remains unaffected. As these pigments absorb laser energy, they disintegrate, with the body subsequently eliminating the remnants, ensuring permanent age spot removal.
Dermabrasion
This procedure involves a rotating instrument that mildly exfoliates the skin’s topmost layer. As the skin regenerates, age spots diminish.
Chemical Peels
With the application of specialized chemicals, the skin’s surface layers are shed. Northstar Dermatology tailors chemical peels to either target a single skin layer or delve deeper, effectively erasing age spots.
For professional care in addressing age spots, connect with Northstar Dermatology or book a slot online.
