Age spots/brown spots
Lone Tree, CO 80124
What they are
Flat brown, gray, or black spots usually found on areas of the body exposed to sun.
Common Causes
- Environmental factors- large particles of pollution in the environment cause irritation to the skin’s barrier and can lead to inflammation and production of free radicals. This can cause premature aging and sun/brown spots if not protected appropriately
- Chronic, unprotected sun exposure– UVA/UVB harmful rays cause our body to produce melanin, which in turn pigments our skin to act as a protective mechanism. Over time, this damage shows up as unwanted dark spots on our skin (body and face)
- Aging– the natural process of skin aging occurs, and years of sun exposure starts to show up on our skin in obvious forms
Photo credit: Healthline
Types of Brown spots
Liver spots
Solar lentigines
sun spots
freckles
Can be found all over the body
Photo credit: Derma NU Clinic
How to treat age spots/brown spots
Medical grade skincare:
Using medical grade skin care, especially retinol, vitamin C, hydroquinone and daily SPF 30+ lighten sun/brown spots. We recommend using effective skincare in conjunction with in-office treatments for optimal results. It is also important to start medical grade skincare prior to treatments to prep the skin, and of course in-between and after treatments to help prevent future pigmentation from forming.
Chemical Peels
Lighter monthly chemical peels or a series of stronger peels, such as VI Peels, help to chemically resurface the top layers of the skin, thus lightening the hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels can be effective, but take more time and patience to see results verses IPL/Lasers (see below).
IPL
IPL, also known as Intense Pulse Light (photofacial) is light based therapy that penetrates into the dermis and destroys the pigmented cells that are causing the dark spots. Works safely and effectively on most hyperpigmentation (caution with melasma) which makes this treatment promising for reducing/removing sun and brown spots. Depending on the individual’s skin, 3 to 6 treatments are recommended to see results.
ResurFX
ResurFX is a non ablative resurfacing laser that shoots beams just below the top layer of skin, coagulating sections of deeper tissue to signal a healing cascade and ridding old skin tissue for fresh, new, more even looking skin. This creates a tightening effect and a more even skin complexion making it a great option for age/brown spots. 3-6 treatments are recommended to see results.
*Of Note*
Once age spots/brown spots show up on the skin, a lot of damage has already been done. Some damage can be reversed but continual treatments and home care are required for life to keep at bay. Ensure you go to a trained medical professional to get a proper diagnosis before any treatments. Without continual care, these conditions will come back (or worsen). Aging is inevitable so no treatment is a permanent solution but maintenance is required for keeping any condition under control. See a trusted provider for a complete, individualized treatment plan, just for you!