Sunspots on the Face

Sunspots, also known as age spots, brown spots, or liver spots, are among the most visible signs of aging. These pigmented lesions result from repeated and cumulative sun exposure. Sunspots typically appear on areas of the skin that receive the most sunlight, such as the hands, shoulders, arms, and face. While sunspots can develop in anyone, they are most common in individuals over the age of 40. Although generally harmless, sunspots can be upsetting signs of aging that may make individuals feel self-conscious, especially when they occur on prominent areas like the face, arms, chest, and hands. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options available at Dr. Michele Green’s New York City private dermatology office to help lighten the skin and reduce signs of sun damage.

Dr. Michele Green is an expert in a wide range of treatment options for eliminating dark spots on the body. Some of the most effective treatments for reducing hyperpigmentation include non-invasive laser therapies, such as the Fraxel laser, Clear + Brilliant Laser, and Candela Alex-Trivantage laser. With options that are safe for patients of all skin tones and types, laser treatment for dark spots effectively targets hyperpigmentation in the skin without damaging the surrounding tissue. In addition to laser treatments, Dr. Green offers a variety of chemical peels, including the Cosmelan peel and mesopeels, to exfoliate the skin and promote new skin cell growth for brighter, revitalized skin. Dr. Green also provides a wide range of skincare products through her proprietary MGSKINLABs to gradually lighten sun spots and enhance the results from in-office treatments. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will determine the best treatment plan for your specific skin concern to help you achieve clear, lasting, radiant skin.

With numerous options available to reduce the appearance of sunspots on the face, it’s advisable to consult an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green. Dr. Green has promoted wellness and treated patients in her Upper East Side, New York City dermatology office for over 25 years. As an expert in various cosmetic and medical treatments, such as laser treatments, chemical peels, dermal fillers, Botox, and more, Dr. Green offers a comprehensive range of skin care options suitable for all skin types and tones. Renowned for high patient satisfaction, Dr. Green has been recognized as one of the best healthcare providers in New York City by publications like Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine.

What are sunspots?

Sunspots are areas of hyperpigmentation marked by small brown or gray spots on the skin’s surface. These brown spots, also referred to as liver spots, solar lentigines, or age spots, typically form due to unprotected exposure to harmful UV rays and are most commonly found on the face, hands, arms, and neck. Sunspots develop over time, usually appearing during middle age (40s-50s) as a result of sun damage that occurs in youth. When UV rays from the sun or tanning beds are absorbed by unprotected skin, they stimulate the production of the pigment known as melanin, which helps protect the skin from harmful rays. However, these pigmented cells can also lead to dark spots or areas of hyperpigmentation, resulting in a spotty or uneven appearance on the skin. While sunspots are harmless, many individuals seek to remove them for cosmetic reasons.

What causes brown sun spots on the face, nose, forehead, and cheeks?

Brown spots, also known as sun spots, are caused by exposure to the sun and ultraviolet (UV) rays. When the skin is overexposed to sunlight, the body produces more of the natural pigment melanin to protect itself from harmful UV rays. Melanin is a pigment produced in the body by melanocytes, which are cells located in the epidermal layer of the skin. The amount of melanin present in the skin directly correlates with skin color. People with darker skin naturally have more melanin than those with lighter skin. Melanin helps prevent UV rays from damaging the body’s DNA and can also protect against skin cancers like melanoma. When the skin is overexposed to harmful UV rays, whether from sun exposure or tanning beds, the melanocytes produce too much melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation of the skin. This hyperpigmentation, or clumping of melanin, is what causes the brown spots to appear. While these brown spots are most commonly found on the face, they can develop anywhere that the body has been overexposed to the sun, including the neck, chest, arms, hands, and legs.

When should I see a dermatologist about sunspots?

Sunspots typically develop on the skin after many years of sun exposure, resulting in increased melanin production and the formation of dark spots on the skin’s surface. Once sunspots have appeared, they do not fade naturally, so if patients wish to reduce their visibility, they need to seek treatment from a dermatologist, like Dr. Green. Dr. Green provides a variety of safe and effective treatment options and has extensive experience treating patients of all skin types. After examining the treatment area, she will recommend the treatment or series of treatments that best fulfill your needs.

What treatments are best for the removal of sun spots on the face?

Dr. Michele Green offers a wide range of non-invasive treatment options for the removal of sun spots, including lasers, chemical peels, and microneedling. These treatments can effectively remove sun spots from the face, chest, arms, legs, and back. During your consultation, Dr. Green will assess your skin type and tone to create the most effective treatment plan that will safely eliminate your sun spots. It is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green to determine which treatment option is best suited for your specific sun spots based on your unique skin type.

Chemical Peels to Remove Facial Sunspots

Chemical peels involve applying a topical chemical solution to resurface the skin, exfoliate the treatment area, and remove the upper layers of dead skin, revealing healthy, lighter skin beneath. In addition to treating pigmentation, chemical peels are excellent for reducing the appearance of fine lines, improving skin texture, and minimizing pore size. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a commonly used chemical exfoliant for removing sun spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation. TCA peels are available in various strengths, and Dr. Green will determine the appropriate TCA strength based on the extent of your sun damage. Multiple treatment sessions are necessary to achieve optimal aesthetic results with chemical peels. Patients with darker skin tones are generally not suited for TCA peels, as treatment can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will evaluate your skin tone to determine if you are a candidate for TCA peels.

Mesopeels to Remove Facial Pigmentation

Mesopeels are specially formulated chemical peels designed to lighten hyperpigmentation, including sun spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These peels are enriched with skin-lightening ingredients like tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and azelaic acid, which work to brighten the skin. Unlike TCA peels or other chemical peels, Mesopeels are intended for safe and effective use on patients of all skin tones, including those with darker complexions. They are also safe for application on various areas of the body, including the chest, back, legs, and buttocks. For optimal pigmentation reduction, patients are required to undergo a series of six Mesopeels spaced four weeks apart.

Cosmelan Peels to Treat Facial Sun Damage and Sunspots

The Cosmelan peel is a professional-grade medical treatment designed to eliminate various types of hyperpigmentation from the skin. First, the Cosmelan mask is applied to the skin and left on for several hours before being removed with warm water and a gentle cleanser. The duration for which the mask is kept on will be determined by Dr. Green based on the patient‘s skin type, tone, and the severity of hyperpigmentation. After removal, detailed instructions will be provided on how to care for the skin and which skincare ingredients to use. Patients then return to Dr. Green’s office four weeks later for an assessment, during which a second mask may be applied. They will also use specific skin-lightening ingredients from the company to maintain and enhance the results of the treatment. The Cosmelan peel is safe for patients of all skin types and tones.

Candela AlexTrivantage Laser for Sunspots

The Candela AlexTrivantage Laser is a non-invasive treatment designed to address discrete sunspots. It emits wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the pigment in these dark spots on the skin. These melanin-rich lesions convert light energy into heat, which breaks down and eliminates pigmentation, allowing healthy, bright skin cells to rise to the surface. The laser specifically targets pigmentation, ensuring the surrounding skin tissue remains unaffected by the procedure. In addition to treating sunspots, the AlexTrivantage laser can also address birthmarks and unwanted tattoos. Minimal downtime is required after treatment, and patients can expect the removal of their sunspots in just one or two sessions.

Fraxel Resurfacing Laser for Sun Damage

The Fraxel laser was the first FDA-approved fractionated laser designed to treat sun damage, sun spots, texture, stretch marks, precancerous growths (known as actinic keratoses), acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. It works by resurfacing a portion of the skin, leaving the surrounding skin unaffected to minimize downtime and accelerate healing. The Fraxel laser creates “micro-injuries” on the skin, triggering skin cell turnover and new collagen production, which brings healthy, unpigmented cells to the skin’s surface. The Fraxel Dual operates on two wavelengths of light: the 1927 nm, which predominantly treats pigmentation and sun damage, and the 1550 nm, which focuses on fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. Patients often utilize both wavelength settings in their treatment plans for pan-facial rejuvenation. Minimal downtime is associated with treatment, and patients may experience at most 48 hours of redness on the skin. When using the 1927 nm setting, patients will also undergo 3 to 5 days of mild exfoliation that feels like a “rough sandpaper” texture on the skin. To achieve optimal results, patients must undergo a series of Fraxel treatments, each spaced a month apart.

Clear + Brilliant Laser for Facial Sunspots

The Clear + Brilliant laser is a gentle resurfacing treatment that addresses pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, and acne scars, resulting in a more even skin tone and texture. Utilizing fractionated laser technology, Clear + Brilliant creates millions of microscopic treatment zones on the face, stimulates new collagen production, removes dead skin cells, and promotes healthy new skin. The Clear + Brilliant is often referred to as the “mini-Fraxel” due to its ability to eliminate sun spots and rejuvenate the skin with no downtime or side effects. Patients of all skin tones, including darker complexions, can benefit from Clear + Brilliant laser treatment for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Because of its fractionated energy, multiple treatment sessions are necessary for optimal cosmetic results.

Microneedling to Treat Sun Damage

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that utilizes tiny, surgical-grade needles to rejuvenate the skin. As these needles glide over the skin’s surface, they create micro-channels that stimulate new collagen production and accelerate skin cell turnover. Microneedling effectively treats sun spots, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, enlarged pores, and stretch marks. This procedure enhances the absorption of topical skincare products through the created microchannels. Dr. Green applies a topical depigmentation serum during treatment to enhance skin-lightening effects and further reduce the appearance of sun spots. A series of three or more treatments is often required to eliminate sun spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to Remove Sun Spots

The Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) laser treatment, also known as a photo facial, is a non-invasive procedure that reduces the signs of photoaging, such as sunspots, fine lines, and mild skin laxity, enhancing the overall color and texture of the skin. Unlike traditional laser resurfacing, which typically uses a single wavelength of light, IPL utilizes multiple wavelengths to address various skin conditions. The flash of light emitted from the IPL device penetrates the dermal layer of the skin to eliminate melanin-rich cells found in sunspots. IPL is also effective in treating facial redness, broken blood vessels, and unwanted hair. To achieve optimal cosmetic results, patients should schedule multiple treatments, spaced one month apart.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure that addresses hyperpigmentation, fine lines, uneven skin texture, acne scars, and other skin concerns to achieve overall rejuvenation. Traditional microdermabrasion gently exfoliates the outer layer of skin by spraying tiny aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate crystals. Diamond microdermabrasion employs a diamond-tipped handpiece to sand away the superficial layer of skin. Multiple treatment sessions are required to attain the best cosmetic results from microdermabrasion.

What are the best creams and skincare products for sunspots?

A proper skincare regimen is essential for anyone looking to treat and eliminate sun spots, as targeted serums and creams can help maintain and enhance the benefits of cosmetic treatments while preventing the formation of new sun spots. Dr. Green’s proprietary skincare line, MGSKINLABs, offers a variety of products specifically designed to address various skin concerns, including sun spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will create a personalized skincare protocol using either over-the-counter or prescription topical products to help lighten your skin pigmentation and eliminate your sun spots for good.

Vitamin C is a vital skincare ingredient for anyone dealing with sun spots or other forms of hyperpigmentation. It is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress and free radicals, accelerates skin cell turnover, and brightens the complexion. MGSKINLABs’ Vita-C Serum features a high potency of vitamin C, helping to lighten and brighten the skin for a more even tone.

The Skin Brightening Cream from MGSKINLABs is highly effective at reducing all types of hyperpigmentation on the skin, including sun spots. Its formulation includes kojic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and fruit extracts to brighten the skin and diminish pigmentation.

Retinol and retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that exfoliate the skin, removing dead pigmented skin cells to reveal healthy, bright skin. In addition to treating pigmentation, retinol and retinoids also stimulate collagen production, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars on the skin’s surface for a more even texture. Retinol can be found over the counter, while retinoids such as tretinoin or Retin-A require a prescription from a board-certified dermatologist. The Essential Antioxidant Infusion from MGSKINLABs is a gentle retinol enriched with essential nutrients and vitamins to brighten and smooth the skin. When using retinol or retinoids, it is crucial to practice proper sun protection, as these ingredients can increase photosensitivity.

For more severe dark spots, Dr. Green may prescribe hydroquinone, a skin-lightening agent, to achieve maximum rejuvenation results. Hydroquinone is only available through a prescription from a board-certified dermatologist. It must be used under the supervision of a physician who can prescribe varying strengths to minimize the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Furthermore, hydroquinone increases the skin’s sensitivity to sun exposure, making it essential to practice strict sun avoidance during use for optimal results.

The most effective way to prevent the formation of dark spots is to practice strict sun protection and wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 50. Sunscreen should be applied daily and reapplied every 90 minutes or after water activities. For maximum protection, patients can layer both a chemical and a physical sunscreen on their skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and transform them into harmless heat energy, while physical sunscreens create a barrier to prevent UV ray penetration. MGSKINLABs Hydrating SPF 50 is a physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide for protection against harmful UV rays, along with hyaluronic acid and lactic acid to hydrate and soften the skin.

FAQs about Sunspots on the Face

Are dark sunspots on the face a sign of skin cancer?

Not all sunspots are harmless and can cause skin cancer. Sunspots result from an overproduction of melanin in the skin, leading to discoloration on the skin’s surface. Skin cancer develops from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. Exposure to harmful UV rays is a risk factor for both the formation of sunspots and skin cancer. Since sunspots and certain types of skin cancers can look similar to the untrained eye, it is essential to have any new, concerning dark spots evaluated by a dermatologist to ensure they are not cancerous. Board-certified dermatologists like Dr. Michele Green are expertly trained to determine whether a lesion is a sunspot or a potential skin cancer. If the lesion seems suspicious, Dr. Green may perform a small biopsy of the area to send to a lab for further testing. If the lesion is confirmed as a sunspot or another form of hyperpigmentation, Dr. Green will discuss available treatment options to safely and effectively reduce the pigmentation.

Are age spots the same as melasma?

While age spots and melasma are both forms of hyperpigmentation, they are not the same. Age spots are caused by excessive sun exposure and appear as flat, brown spots on the skin. They can be effectively treated with various lasers, chemical peels, and targeted skincare products. Melasma, on the other hand, is a chronic skin condition characterized by blotchy gray or brown patches of discoloration. Although melasma can be triggered or worsened by sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations, and certain medications, its exact cause remains unknown. Laser treatments are not recommended for melasma, as heat can entrench the pigmentation deeper into the skin and worsen its appearance. While melasma cannot be cured, it can be treated and managed with specific chemical peels and topical skincare products. Since age spots and melasma often resemble each other, and melasma symptoms may worsen with certain laser treatments, patients should consult an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for dark spots on the face.

Should I be concerned about raised sunspots on the face/nose/forehead/cheeks?

Sunspots are typically flat, oval areas of hyperpigmentation that commonly appear on the face, shoulders, upper back, and hands. A raised pigmented lesion may indicate another skin condition, such as seborrheic keratosis or skin cancer. If you notice a raised spot, especially one that has changed recently or has an irregular border, schedule an appointment with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Green has the knowledge and expertise to diagnose various types of skin conditions. If the raised lesion seems suspicious, Dr. Green may take a small sample from the area and send it for further testing. It is essential to accurately diagnose any new lesions to ensure that they are treated appropriately.

How can I prevent the formation of sunspots?

Sun damage typically starts to show when individuals reach their 40s or older, resulting from past sunburns and a general lack of sun protection in their youth. Consistently practicing sun protection makes it significantly easier to prevent sun damage. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (aad.org), the most effective method to prevent the formation of sunspots is to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever you go outside. Starting in their youth, individuals should apply a broad-spectrum SPF of 50 or higher for protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen should be reapplied each time they go outdoors, and every 90 minutes while remaining in the sun. In addition to sunscreen, individuals should also wear sunglasses, sun-protective clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat when outside.

How to get rid of sunspots on the nose/forehead/cheeks

The first step to eliminating sunspots on the nose, forehead, or cheeks is to schedule an appointment with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green. She will start by examining the treatment area to identify the type of hyperpigmentation present on your face and determine the best combination of in-office treatments and skincare products. Depending on the severity of the damage and the patient’s skin tone, Dr. Green may recommend laser treatments such as the Fraxel laser, Clear + Brilliant Laser, or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), chemical peels, and topical serums or creams. These treatment options enhance skin cell turnover to reduce pigmentation for brighter, clearer skin. Other dermatology offices might use procedures like cryotherapy, which employs liquid nitrogen to freeze the dark spot and cause it to fall off. However, cryotherapy is associated with pain and more significant side effects than laser therapy, chemical peels, or topical creams, so Dr. Green typically avoids this procedure. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will consider the size and scope of the treatment area, your skin tone, and overall aesthetic goals before recommending the treatment plan that will be most effective for achieving optimal skin health.

How to get rid of upper lip sunspots

Patients often wonder how to eliminate sunspots on their lips, as these spots are near one of the most defining features of our face. Dr. Green may use the AlexTrivantage laser to treat the individual spots on the upper lip for a clearer, brighter complexion. If there are additional sunspots spread across the face, Dr. Green might first treat the entire face, including the upper lip, with the Fraxel laser before following up with the AlexTrivantage laser to eliminate any stubborn remaining sunspots.

When treating pigmentation on the upper lip, it is crucial to consult with an expert board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Green, since pigmentation in this area may indicate melasma. Melasma should be addressed with chemical peels and microneedling, as laser treatments can worsen its appearance. Dr. Green will evaluate the treatment area to determine if the discoloration on the lips signifies sunspots, melasma, or another type of hyperpigmentation. Regardless of the type of hyperpigmentation affecting the upper lip, Dr. Green will develop a customized treatment plan aimed at effectively reducing and eliminating the pigmentation.

What is the best treatment for sun spots on the face?

There is no single “best” treatment that is inherently the “best” for eliminating sun spots on the face. The Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant lasers effectively treat sun spots that are spread diffusely across the face. In contrast, the AlexTrivantage laser is more suitable for addressing individual, discrete sun spots. Chemical peels like the Mesopeel or Cosmelan peel are ideal for patients with darker skin types or those who may have a combination of sun spots and melasma. The optimal treatment for sun spot removal depends on your specific skin concerns, skin type, and skin tone. When you consult with expert board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green, she will carefully assess your skin and create a personalized plan to safely and effectively treat your sun spots. Often, combining both in-office treatments and topical skincare products yields the best cosmetic results for clear, radiant skin that lasts.

How to get rid of sun spots on the face today

Sun spots on the face are some of the most common signs of sun damage caused by years of sun exposure. Although sun spots are harmless, they can be unattractive, prompting many patients to seek removal for cosmetic reasons. Fortunately, Dr. Green offers a variety of treatment options for sun spot removal at her private NYC dermatology office, including laser treatments, chemical peels, and microneedling. These non-invasive procedures require minimal downtime or side effects, rejuvenating the skin and resulting in a clearer, more radiant complexion. If you are frustrated by sun spots and dark pigmented lesions and want a more even-toned appearance, Dr. Green is here to assist you.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist with over twenty-five years of experience providing her patients with top non-invasive treatments for sun spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, crafting personalized skincare routines and treatment plans that cater to the unique concerns and aesthetic goals of her patients. She is consistently acknowledged as one of New York’s leading dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and her expertise. Please call us at 212-535-3088 or email our New York City office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green and discover the best treatment option for sun-damaged skin.