What Are Age Spots?
Age spots, also known as sun spots, are dark spots that appear on areas of your skin that are exposed to the sun. Some of the most common places age spots develop are on the face, arms, hands, back, shoulders, and possibly the scalp. Age spots are more common in older adults; however, younger adults can develop them as well, especially with prolonged sun exposure.
What Causes Age Spots?
Age spots are typically caused by prolonged sun exposure. Since UV rays accelerate melanin production (the pigment in your skin), excess production of melanin is what causes age spots to develop.
How Are Age Spots Treated?
Age spots can be treated in a variety of ways; however, lasers combined with topical bleaching agents are highly effective in treating age spots. Laser therapy utilizes focused beams of light that break down the melanin in the spot, which leads to fading over time.
Additional treatment modalities include:
- Topical bleaching agents: Hydroquinone is a topical cream that gradually fades age spots and other types of hyperpigmentation over time. It’s important to avoid excess sun exposure when using this medication.
- Chemical peels: A topical solution can be applied to the age spots to slough the skin away. Depending on your skin type and the darkness of the age spots, light to medium-depth peel may be used.
- Microdermabrasion: This cosmetic procedure uses a specialized device that exfoliates the top layer of skin. It can be used with hydroquinone to help fade age spots over time.
Are Age Spots Harmful?
No, age spots are not harmful or cancerous. However, it’s important to perform routine skin checks to make sure that you haven’t developed any new spots or see changes in the ones you have. If you do notice any changes, it’s equally important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, just to ensure that none of the changes warrant a skin biopsy.
Are There Any Associated Side Effects or Risks?
When performed by a board-certified dermatologist or esthetician, age spot treatments are safe and have a low risk of side effects. However, certain types of treatments like chemical peels and lasers, may cause temporary redness or irritation. That’s why it is always best to consult with a skincare professional who will examine your skin and discuss all of your options.
Will My Age Spots Disappear Completely?
The combination of laser treatments and bleaching significantly reduce the appearance of age spots. The degree is which the age spots fade varies by patient.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
After your first treatment session, we will schedule a follow-up appointment. Upon reassessment of your skin, we may suggest another laser treatment to address any areas of hyperpigmentation.
If The Age Spots Are On My Face, Can I Wear Makeup After Treatment?
Depending on your skin type, we may recommend that you avoid using makeup and moisturizers after your age spot treatment.
Schedule A Consultation
If you’re ready to treat your age spots or another skin concern, contact The Plastic Surgery Group of Rochester at (585) 922-5840. Our practice proudly serves all of Rochester, Buffalo, Syracuse, and surrounding areas.
