Sunspots for Skin & Sunspot Removal Treatment

Throughout our lives, we are often exposed to the sun’s rays. Going outside without protective clothing or sunscreen can leave our skin vulnerable to UV rays, which can, over time, lead to dark spots. Sunspots, also known as age spots, liver spots, or solar lentigines, are flat, brown marks that develop on areas of the body most frequently exposed to direct sunlight, including the face, shoulders, forearms, arms, and hands. Repeated sun exposure stimulates melanocytes to increase melanin production, resulting in deeper skin pigmentation and hyperpigmentation, such as sunspots. While melanin production is a protective response that helps prevent sunburn, it can unfortunately create new dark spots on the face and body. Sunspots will not disappear on their own and require intervention from a board-certified dermatologist to eliminate them, which is why many patients turn to Dr. Michele Green at her private NYC dermatology office to treat their sunspots.

Several treatment options are available for removing sun spots. These treatments focus on eliminating unwanted pigmentation and promoting new collagen production, which further contributes to healthier, younger-looking skin. Sun spot treatment options include Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, Alex-Trivantage, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), microneedling, TCA chemical peels, Mesopeels, and Cosmelan. Prescription-strength bleaching creams, such as hydroquinone, along with specialized skincare products containing ingredients like niacinamide, glycolic acid, and vitamin C, can also help reduce melanin production and exfoliate away pigmentation from the skin.

What are sunspots?

Sun spots, also known as solar lentigines, are flat, pigmented areas that range in color from tan to dark brown. As we age, frequent unprotected sun exposure and general skin aging can show up as sun spots. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can accelerate melanin production in the skin, a naturally occurring pigment that gives skin its color. Sun spots often appear on individuals with fair skin who have spent considerable time in the sun, although they can develop in people of all skin types and tones.

Many wonder what sunspots look like on the skin. Sunspots are flat areas of discoloration that range from light tan to brown, with shades in between. These dark spots also vary in size, typically from the size of a freckle to 1/2 inch in diameter. They are textureless and can appear on any sun-exposed areas of the body, including the face, neck, décolletage, shoulders, back, legs, and the tops of the hands. Caused by excessive sun exposure, age spots typically develop in adults over 50, although increased sun exposure in youth can cause them to appear in younger individuals. Unlike freckles, which fade in children, sunspots remain on the skin and contribute to a speckled appearance.

While sun spots are extremely common, they tend to affect people over age 40 more often. Sun spots, or age spots, are primarily caused by the extent of sun damage sustained throughout life and an individual’s genetic predisposition to developing these dark spots. Increased sun exposure leads to more sun spots and deeper pigmentation. Although sun spots are harmless, unlike freckles, they do ’t fade over time and can only be removed with dermatologic treatments such as chemical peels or laser treatment.

What causes sunspots on the skin?

Sun spots develop over time due to cumulative sun exposure. Childhood sun exposure often results in freckles on frequently exposed areas. As we age and experience more sun exposure, we develop larger, more prominent pigmented lesions known as sun spots. These spots form as a result of intense or cumulative exposure to UV rays from the sun. UV rays are absorbed by our skin, causing the melanocytes in that area to multiply. Melanocytes are the pigmented skin cells responsible for producing and transferring melanin, the chemical that gives our skin its color. With repeated sun exposure, melanin accumulates in the skin, forming a dark spot. Melanin absorbs UV rays and protects the DNA in our skin cells, which is why sun spots develop as a protective response. A history of repeated sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer and can also heighten the presence of sun spots. These sun spots deepen over time and are commonly found in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, chest, neck, back, legs, and hands. In fact, sun spots on the hands are among the first visible signs of aging for many people.

Are sunspots skin cancer?

No, sun spots are not harmful or cancerous and typically do not require medical intervention. They result from cumulative sun exposure, which increases melanocyte activity and melanin production in the skin. While sun spots can sometimes resemble skin cancer or atypical moles, they are harmless and usually do not require treatment. However, many patients choose to address age spots for cosmetic reasons, seeking a more even skin tone and a restored youthful appearance. If any dark spots on the skin change in size or color, it may indicate a potential risk of cancer. In this case, it is advisable to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, who can assess whether the lesion is a sun spot or a type of skin cancer.

Many patients ask what cancerous sunspots look like. While sunspots are not cancerous, some cancerous lesions can resemble them. The American Academy of Dermatology uses the “ABCDEs” of skin cancer to determine whether a dark spot may be cancerous: asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving. Most melanoma lesions are darker and have irregular borders, whereas sunspots and solar lentigines are typically smaller and more uniform in shape. If any dark spots on the skin change in size or color, it may indicate that the spot could be cancerous. Sometimes it can be difficult to differentiate between a sunspot and skin cancer, as several types of skin lesions — including actinic keratoses, basal cell carcinomas, and benign seborrheic keratoses — can resemble sunspots.

How to get rid of sunspots

At the New York City office of board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, a range of non-invasive treatments is available for removing sunspots and other forms of skin discoloration. Dr. Green offers a range of services tailored to her patients’ unique needs, including laser treatments, microneedling, chemical peels, Cosmelan, Mesopeels, and topical skincare products. During your consultation, Dr. Green will evaluate the treatment or combination of treatments best suited to your hyperpigmentation, based on your skin tone and type.

Candela Alex-Trivantage Laser

The Candela Alex-Trivantage Laser is a YAG laser designed to treat specific sun spots. It emits wavelengths of light that are absorbed by pigment in dark spots on the skin. These melanin-rich lesions convert light energy into heat, eliminating pigmentation and stimulating the production of new, lighter, healthier skin cells. The laser targets skin pigmentation, ensuring that surrounding tissue remains unaffected by the treatment. Results from the Candela Alex-Trivantage laser treatment can typically be seen within one to two weeks after the procedure. While patients usually require one to two treatments for optimal results, the number of sessions needed will vary depending on the severity of the pigmentation. In addition to treating sun spots and age spots, the Alex-Trivantage laser can also remove tattoos, including black, blue, red, and green pigments.

42 year old female before and after sun spot treatment with AlexTrivantage laser

Fraxel Laser

The Fraxel laser was the first FDA-approved fractional laser designed to treat sun damage, sun spots, skin texture, stretch marks, acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. It resurfaces a “fraction” of the skin, leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected, thereby minimizing downtime and expediting healing. The Fraxel Dual uses two wavelengths: 1927 nm, which primarily targets pigmentation and sun damage, and 1550 nm, which addresses fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. The laser creates thousands of controlled, microscopic injuries to the skin, stimulating the natural healing process and enhancing collagen production and the formation of new, smooth skin cells. At 1927 nm, the Fraxel laser targets and eliminates melanin in pigmented cells while preserving the surrounding skin. A combination of both settings can effectively treat sun spots and wrinkles simultaneously while improving skin texture, all with only a few days of recovery. Multiple Fraxel sessions should be scheduled to eliminate sun damage and achieve optimal cosmetic results effectively. Dr. Green recommends scheduling three treatment sessions for maximum benefit, with each session spaced a month apart. The Fraxel laser is most effective for lighter skin tones.

Clear+Brilliant Laser

The Clear+Brilliant laser is often called a “mini-Fraxel” laser. This gentle laser resurfacing treatment received FDA approval in 2011. Using fractionated laser technology, Clear+Brilliant creates millions of microscopic treatment zones on the face, stimulates new collagen production, removes dead skin cells, and promotes the formation of healthy new skin. Clear+Brilliant effectively addresses many skin conditions, including overall sun damage, sun spots, uneven skin tone, irregular skin texture, fine lines, and enlarged pores. Patients of all skin types, including those with darker complexions, can benefit from Clear+Brilliant laser treatment for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Typically, five treatments spaced a month apart are recommended for optimal results. The Clear+Brilliant laser requires no downtime, making it an excellent choice for eliminating sun spots and achieving beautiful, younger-looking skin.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

The Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) laser treatment, also known as a photofacial, reduces unwanted pigmentation, facial redness, fine lines, and skin laxity, improving overall skin color and texture. IPL differs from laser resurfacing in that, while lasers typically use a single wavelength of light, IPL employs multiple wavelengths to smooth the skin and diminish the appearance of discoloration, brown spots, sun damage, and other signs of skin aging. The flash of light emitted by the IPL device penetrates the skin’s dermis to target and destroy melanin-rich cells in sunspots. The photofacial procedure is quick and effective, causing minimal discomfort and requiring no downtime. However, Dr. Green advises continuing to avoid sun exposure as much as possible and to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, whenever outdoors.

TCA Chemical Peels

A TCA peel applies trichloroacetic acid, a chemical solution, to the skin to exfoliate the top layer of dead, pigmented skin cells. Removing these cells stimulates the production of new skin, resulting in a more even, brighter, and healthier-looking complexion. TCA strength can be adjusted based on the severity of pigmentation and the patient’s skin type and tone. In addition to diminishing sun spots, TCA peels can enhance skin texture and reduce fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, enlarged pores, and other visible signs of skin aging. Patients may require five or six peels to achieve optimal cosmetic results. Side effects of the peel can include redness and flaking, which generally resolve within a few days. TCA peels are generally not advisable for patients with darker skin tones due to the heightened risk of post-peel discoloration.

Cosmelan Peel

The Cosmelan Peel is a professional-grade chemical peel that features a proprietary blend of active ingredients that delivers highly effective skin-lightening results. The Cosmelan Peel mask works through multiple mechanisms to eliminate pigmentation in the affected areas and prevent further melanin accumulation. This specialized chemical peel removes dead, pigmented skin cells, revealing the healthy, clear skin beneath, and inhibits the migration of pigment-producing cells to the epidermis (the top layer of the skin). During your appointment, Dr. Green will apply the Cosmelan Peel to the targeted area. The severity and location of sun spots, pigmentation, or melasma will determine the duration of mask use. Patients will then remove the mask at home with a gentle cleanser.

Dr. Green has designed a personalized skincare routine for her patients to follow after treatment. This routine incorporates creams from her MGSKINLABS to enhance treatment results and protect your skin from further pigmentation. These creams may contain active ingredients such as kojic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide, hydroquinone, and hydra-vital factor K. Additionally, Dr. Green advises strict sun avoidance after treatment to prevent further UV damage. If sun exposure is unavoidable, she recommends using a combination of chemical and physical sunscreens for optimal UV protection.

Mesopeels

Mesopeels are a type of chemical peel offered at Dr. Green’s office, specifically designed to treat sensitive areas of the skin. They contain gentle skin-lightening ingredients that effectively eliminate various forms of hyperpigmentation, including sun spots. The Mesopeel functions similarly to other chemical peels by gently exfoliating the skin, removing dead skin cells, and promoting new collagen production to rejuvenate the skin. It can be used to address hyperpigmentation in different parts of the body, including the face, neck, back, and underarms. Mesopeels are particularly effective for sensitive areas and typically involve little discomfort or recovery time. Generally, four to six treatments are needed to achieve optimal results. There is no downtime, allowing patients to resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure.

Microneedling with skin depigmentation solution

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a highly effective skin rejuvenation treatment that targets fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars while improving pigmentation. This technique uses tiny, insulated, surgical-grade needles to create micro-injuries in the skin’s epidermal layer. The microchannels formed during the procedure enhance the absorption of serums and skincare products. The needle pricks initiate the body’s natural healing response, leading to the production of new collagen and healthy skin cells, which reduce the appearance of sun spots, improve skin texture, and treat acne scars. For patients primarily focused on addressing hyperpigmentation — whether it manifests as sun spots, melasma, or pigmented acne scars — adding a depigmenting serum to the microneedling treatment can yield outstanding results. This serum contains a unique combination of gentle yet effective skin-brightening agents that target melanocytes to eliminate sun spots and pigmentation. The microneedling procedure itself is quick, straightforward, and painless, and Dr. Green typically recommends five to six treatment sessions to achieve healthy, radiant, and clear skin.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment that gently removes the outermost layer of the epidermis to even skin texture and reduce discoloration and fine lines. It is an excellent choice for individuals with sun-damaged skin, age spots, acne scars, or skin discoloration. The procedure exfoliates the skin using a fine abrasive tip or crystals, removing dead skin cells and promoting the production of new, lighter skin cells in the treatment area. Results are best achieved after several treatment sessions, each spaced about a month apart. The procedure is safe for all skin types and requires no downtime; however, patients should commit to a rigorous sunscreen regimen after treatment.

HydraFacials

A HydraFacial is a three-step, medical-grade facial designed to rejuvenate the skin and address concerns such as pigmentation, acne, and redness. It is safe and effective for all skin tones. At Dr. Green’s office, the HydraFacial begins with the cleansing phase, which removes dead skin cells from the surface while hydrating the skin. After cleansing, the second step is exfoliation, during which a chemical exfoliant softens debris trapped in the pores, and a proprietary vortex suction tip then extracts dead skin cells and dirt. Finally, the third step rejuvenates the skin with serums and moisturizers. The HydraFacial can be enhanced with boosters or specialized serums to target specific skin issues, such as redness, uneven skin tone, pigmentation, and fine lines. Boosters like HydraFacial Brighten or Murad Vita-C can be added to provide antioxidants and skin-brightening ingredients, helping diminish the appearance of sun spots.

Cryosurgery

In the past, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen was a popular treatment for removing sun spots; however, it can cause significant skin irritation and tissue damage and is no longer commonly used. Today, many techniques for removing sun spots are available, with fewer adverse effects. These treatments can be performed on various areas, including the face, neck, scalp, hands, arms, legs, back, chest, and décolletage.

Skin Care Products and Creams

With so many topical skincare products for pigmentation, choosing the right one can be challenging. Founded by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, MGSKINLABs Inc. offers some of the best skin-lightening creams and lotions designed to treat sun spots. Dr. Green develops tailored pigment protocols for her patients, incorporating the safest and most effective topical creams, moisturizers, and cleansers for each skin tone and type. The Vita-C Serum delivers high-potency vitamin C while remaining gentle on the skin. It serves as a powerful antioxidant that enhances skin cell turnover, shields against oxidative stress, and minimizes pigmentation and dark spots. MGSKINLAB’s Skin Brightening Cream is another standout product that incorporates skin-lightening ingredients, including kojic acid, niacinamide, and fruit extracts, to brighten the skin and reduce pigmentation gently.

Dr. Green may recommend adding hydroquinone, a topical skin-lightening cream, to your skincare routine. Hydroquinone blocks melanin production and prevents melanocytes from migrating to the skin’s upper layers. It is available only by prescription from a board-certified dermatologist, and overuse can worsen hyperpigmentation, so it is essential to follow the prescribing provider’s directions. Retinoids are another highly effective prescription option for eliminating sun spots. Derived from vitamin A, they enhance skin cell turnover, sloughing off dead, pigmented cells to reveal fresh, bright skin beneath the surface while boosting collagen production. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLAB Essential Antioxidant Infusion serum combines retinol with vitamins C and E to exfoliate and replenish the skin. Proper UV protection is essential when using either hydroquinone or retinoids, as both can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.

The final and most crucial step in the pigment protocol for reducing sun spots and other forms of unwanted skin pigmentation is sunscreen. Dr. Green offers both chemical and physical sunscreens at MGSKINLABs Inc. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays, converting them into heat that the skin releases, while physical sunscreens sit on the skin’s surface and reflect the sun’s rays. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 provides the best protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Beyond preventing pigmented spots, sunscreen supports skin health by reducing the risk of skin cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sunspots

What do sun spots indicate?

Sun spots are a visible sign of cumulative UV exposure; they indicate that the skin has absorbed enough ultraviolet radiation over the years to trigger excess melanin production in that area. In most cases, sun spots simply reflect sun damage and skin aging rather than an underlying health concern. That said, because sun spots and skin cancer can sometimes look similar, a new or changing dark spot can also be an important signal to have your skin evaluated. Dr. Green often reminds patients that sun spots are a helpful reminder to reassess their sun protection habits, since the same UV exposure responsible for sun spots also increases the long-term risk of skin cancer.

What are the symptoms of sunspots on skin?

Sun spots are painless and do not cause itching, burning, or other physical sensations — the primary “symptom” is the visible dark spot on the skin. These flat, brown-to-tan patches typically develop gradually, becoming more numerous or more pronounced after a sunburn, a summer of unprotected sun exposure, or simply as part of normal skin aging. Unlike some skin conditions, sun spots do not alter the texture of the surrounding skin. However, patients should watch for any accompanying skin changes, such as a spot that becomes raised, scaly, or tender, as these can be signs of actinic keratoses or other skin concerns that warrant evaluation.

What’s the difference between age spots and sun spots?

Age spots, also called sun spots, develop from excessive exposure to harmful UV rays. Other names include liver spots and solar lentigines. Prolonged sun exposure can increase melanin production by melanocytes in your skin, resulting in dark spots. While liver spots are harmless, they can be an annoying reminder of natural aging. Fortunately, several options can remove liver spots. Treatment options at Dr. Green’s Upper East Side dermatology office include laser treatment, chemical peels, intense pulsed light treatment, HydraFacials, Mesopeels, skin-lightening creams, and microneedling to eliminate age spots.

What are the complications of sunspots on skin?

Sun spots are generally harmless and do not cause medical complications on their own. The most common “complication” patients experience is cosmetic — a blotchy, uneven, or prematurely aged appearance that can affect self-confidence. A more significant concern is that the same UV rays responsible for sun spots also damage the skin’s DNA over time, increasing the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. Additionally, some at-home or unsupervised treatments, such as harsh over-the-counter peels or cryotherapy performed outside a medical office, can cause irritation, scarring, or uneven pigmentation if not properly administered.

Do sunspots need to be removed?

No, sun spots are benign and do not require medical removal. Because they are a cosmetic concern rather than a health risk, treatment is entirely elective and based on each patient’s personal preference. That said, many patients choose to pursue sun spot removal to achieve a more even skin tone, restore a youthful appearance, and prevent further deepening of pigmentation with continued sun exposure. If a dark spot changes in size, shape, or color, removal is not the priority — evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist to rule out skin cancer should come first.

Can sunspots come back after removal?

Sunspot removal is permanent as long as the treated skin is properly protected from future sun exposure. However, without diligent sun protection, new sunspots can form in the same or nearby areas because the underlying melanocytes can still produce melanin in response to UV radiation. Patients who are naturally prone to hyperpigmentation or who spend significant time outdoors may need occasional maintenance treatments over the years. Dr. Green works with her patients to build a long-term sun protection and skincare routine that helps preserve their results and prevent new sunspots.

How long does it take to fade sunspots on skin?

The time it takes for sun spots to fade depends on the treatment chosen and the depth of the pigmentation. Laser treatments like the Alex-Trivantage typically show visible improvement within one to two weeks after a session, while topical creams containing hydroquinone, retinoids, or vitamin C generally take several weeks to months of consistent use to noticeably lighten pigmentation. Chemical peels such as Cosmelan and Mesopeel often require a series of treatments spaced weeks apart before the full results become apparent. Because sun spots accumulate gradually over years of sun exposure, patience and consistency — along with strict sun protection between sessions — are key to achieving a smooth, even final result.

How do you remove sun spots on your face?

Several treatment options can eliminate dark brown sun spots on the face, including topical lightening creams. Key active ingredients in prescription topical creams include retinoids and hydroquinone, a bleaching agent that inhibits melanin production. Hydroquinone is available in different strengths, and Dr. Green will determine the most suitable concentration based on your skin type and the severity of hyperpigmentation. In-office cosmetic procedures are often more effective than topical lightening creams alone and typically produce longer-lasting results. Dr. Green’s office offers a range of treatment options for removing age spots from the face, from chemical peels to laser resurfacing, and will create a customized regimen to deliver a clear, even complexion that lasts.

How do you remove sun spots on your arms, hands, and legs?

Fortunately, many of the effective cosmetic treatments Dr. Green recommends for eliminating sun spots on the face also work well for the body. The hands and legs are among the most common areas showing signs of sun damage, including sun spots. A combination of MGSKINLABs topical lightening creams and laser treatments such as the Candela Alex-Trivantage or Fraxel Dual is one of the fastest, easiest, and safest ways to reduce the appearance of sun spots on the hands and legs. The Fraxel laser provides overall skin rejuvenation for the body, while the Alex-Trivantage effectively removes darker, discrete sun spots, resulting in a beautiful, even skin tone and texture.

How to remove sunspots on your chest?

Just like the face, the chest often receives substantial sun exposure and may show signs of photoaging before the rest of the body. Many treatments that diminish the appearance of sun spots on the face are also effective on the chest. Laser treatments, such as the Alex-Trivantage or Fraxel lasers, use light energy to eliminate excess melanin in sun spots, resulting in a more even skin tone. Chemical peels, such as TCA peels, effectively exfoliate dead, pigmented surface cells, revealing healthier skin cells beneath. Dr. Green recommends and uses both lasers and chemical peels as her primary methods for treating age spots due to their safety and effectiveness.

How to get rid of sunspots on your lips?

Sun spots can develop on the face, including the lips. The skin on the lips differs from the rest of the face: it lacks hair follicles and sweat glands but has increased vascularization. However, the lips can still develop sun spots, which can be quite frustrating.

How can you naturally get rid of sunspots?

The best way to remove sun spots naturally is to use targeted treatments that harness the skin’s natural regenerative processes. Retinol creams and lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, help exfoliate the skin and fade sun spots. A vitamin C serum, like Dr. Green’s popular Vita-C Serum, has powerful antioxidant properties that lighten sun spots and repair damage from UV rays. Skin-lightening creams containing hydroquinone, kojic acid, arbutin, phytic acid, and azelaic acid also lighten the skin and diminish the appearance of sun spots and discoloration. Sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin from further UV damage, which can worsen sun spots and create new ones. While topical products can reduce the appearance of sun spots over time, in-office treatments such as laser treatments and chemical peels are typically required to eliminate them.

Will sunspots go away on their own?

Unfortunately, sun spots generally do not fade or disappear on their own. They result from sun damage, and a board-certified dermatologist must treat them. However, laser treatments such as Alex-Trivantage and Fraxel, along with chemical peels like Cosmelan or Mesopeel, are safe and effective options for removing sun spots from the skin’s surface. After treatment, sun spot removal is permanent as long as you avoid excessive sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and continue using effective skincare products, including broad-spectrum sunscreen.

How much does sunspot removal cost?

The cost of sun spot removal varies widely depending on the treatment method, the number of sessions required, and the extent of the pigmentation. Topical skincare products and prescription creams are typically the most affordable option. In-office procedures such as laser treatment, IPL, chemical peels, and Cosmelan also have a per-session fee that reflects the technology used and the size of the treatment area. Because most patients achieve optimal results with a series of treatments rather than a single session, the full cost of a sun spot removal plan is best understood after a consultation. During your visit, Dr. Green will examine your skin and recommend a customized treatment plan, along with an accurate cost estimate tailored to your specific goals.

How do you prevent sunspots?

The best way to prevent sunspots is to practice proper UV protection and limit unnecessary sun exposure. Patients should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher daily and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating, to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Dr. Green often recommends combining chemical and physical sunscreens for added protection, particularly for those prone to sunspots or melasma. Individuals prone to hyperpigmentation should also wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and sunglasses, and avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. Consistent sun protection is the single most effective way to prevent both new sunspots and sunburn.

How to get rid of white sunspots?

Excessive sun exposure or tanning bed use can cause hypopigmentation, resulting in light-colored spots in the affected areas. This condition, known as idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, can be treated with topical steroids or retinoids to reduce inflammation and promote cell turnover. Another condition that may arise from excessive sun exposure or tanning bed use is Tinea versicolor, caused by an overgrowth of a naturally occurring skin yeast and typically treated with antifungal medication after a formal diagnosis. An underlying condition, such as vitiligo, an autoimmune disorder that halts melanin production, can also become more noticeable when the surrounding skin tans.

When should I see a doctor about sunspots on skin?

Most sun spots do not require a visit to the dermatologist and can be treated electively for cosmetic reasons whenever a patient is ready. However, schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, if you notice any changes in an existing dark spot—such as an increase in size, an irregular or asymmetric border, a change in color, itching, bleeding, or a raised or scaly texture. These changes can be early warning signs of melanoma or another form of skin cancer, and prompt evaluation is the safest course of action. Dr. Green also recommends an annual full-body skin cancer screening for all patients, particularly those with a history of significant sun exposure or sunburn.

55-64 year old woman treated with Cosmelan & Chemical Peels

How to get started with removing sunspots today

Sunspots can make individuals appear significantly older than their actual age and, for many, lead to self-consciousness. Fortunately, cosmetic dermatology has advanced significantly, with innovative treatments for sunspots and hyperpigmentation. Sunspots can be treated anywhere on the body, including the face, neck, décolletage, hands, arms, legs, and back. These treatments are safe, effective, and long-lasting when you maintain proper sun protection. Whether through laser treatment, chemical peels, or a customized skincare routine, Dr. Green offers a range of non-invasive options to eliminate sunspots and achieve beautiful, healthy, evenly toned skin.

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Michele Green has treated some of the world’s most discerning men and women for sunspot removal with treatments such as the Fraxel laser and Cosmelan peel, earning consistent recognition as one of New York’s top physicians from Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times. During your consultation, she will work closely with you to fully understand your skin concerns and desired cosmetic outcomes, then develop a personalized treatment plan that combines in-office procedures with specially formulated skincare products. To create your personalized treatment plan for sun spot removal and consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green in NYC, call the office at 212-535-3088 or contact us online today.