What are age spots?

Age spots, also known as liver spots, sun spots, and hyperpigmentation, are small, flat, dark patches that appear on the skin as a result of sun exposure, aging, and other lifestyle and environmental factors such as ongoing use of technology. They are typically found on areas of the skin that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, chest, arms, hands, and legs. Age spots are harmless but can sometimes be mistaken for skin cancer, so it’s always best to have them checked by a doctor.

What’s the problem with age spots?

People often dislike age spots because they are a visible sign of aging and can make the skin look uneven, dull, and unhealthy. They can also be seen as a cosmetic issue and make people self-conscious about their appearance, requiring people to feel like they cannot leave the house without wearing heavy makeup. Ideally, healthy and glowing skin doesn’t need to be hidden with makeup. Some people choose to treat their age spots for cosmetic reasons, while others may seek treatment for medical reasons or to alleviate any concerns they may have about skin cancer.

What are the causes of dark spots?

Sun exposure: The most common cause of age spots is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun and blue light from electronic devices. Over time, these types of exposure can cause an accumulation of pigment in the skin, leading to the formation of age spots.

Genetics: Some people are more prone to developing age spots due to their genetic makeup.  Furthermore, some people suffer from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Blemishes, scratches, or other trauma and inflammation cause overproduction of melanin in the skin, resulting in dark spots.

What treatments are available for age spots?

Chemical peels: A chemical peel uses an acid solution to remove the top layer of skin, which can help fade age spots. Some chemical peels like the Cosmelan Peel not only removes the outer most later of the skin but suppresses melanocyte activity – the cells that produce pigment.

Laser therapy: A laser can target the pigment in age spots and break it up, allowing the body to naturally remove it over time. Not only do our laser treatments reverse the signs of photo damage and aging, they are clinically-proven to change the genetic expression of the skin and make skin cells healthier.

Microdermabrasion: This procedure uses a device to gently sand away the top layer of skin, which can help to reduce the appearance of age spots.

Skin care: In addition to any in-office professional treatment, medical grade cleansers, exfoliants, toners, serums, creams, and sunscreen containing ingredients like hydroquinone, glycolic acid, retinol, and other brighteners and tyrosinase inhibitors to inhibit melanin production.

Start with a Consultation

At Vitality Aesthetics MedSpa, we offer several options that can eliminate and prevent age spots. Visit us for a complimentary consultation, and we can discuss medically supervised options for clearing and treating your damaged skin. In addition to treating age spots, we offer treatments for many of the signs of aging that may affect your self-confidence. Contact us today for a consultation.