Sunspots are flat brown spots that can develop on your skin after sun exposure. They are also referred to as liver spots or solar lentigines. Anyone can get sunspots, but they are most common in people with fair skin and those over 40. There are numerous home remedies available on how to get rid of sunspots, but the most effective treatments are available through your dermatologist, like laser skin treatment.
It’s important to note that true sunspots are harmless. During exposure to sun, UV radiation causes the overproduction of melanin in the skin by melanocytes, which creates the hyperpigmentation (aka sunspots). They vary in shape and size, but typically appear in the areas that had the most sun exposure, like the face, shoulders, forearms, and backs of hands. Although they are harmless, most people are not fond of their appearance. Fortunately, sunspots can be treated by your dermatologist.
You should visit your dermatologist for any suspicious spots on your skin to confirm that the spot is, in fact, just a sunspot. Vujevich Dermatology Associates recommends three treatments for how to get rid of sunspots.
Laser Skin Treatment
VDA uses the Excel V Laser for laser skin treatment of sunspots. All lasers work by delivering a specific wavelength of light to target certain structures in the skin. The Excel V Laser specifically targets red and brown spots. The laser’s energy is absorbed by the brown in sunspots, causing the brown pigment cells to break apart. Eventually, your body will eliminate the remnants of these structures. Targeted treatment allows selective treatment of skin, without damaging surrounding skin. Once individual spots are treated, they do not return. However, many patients are susceptible to developing new sunspots and opt for touch-up treatments as needed.
Laser skin treatment varies in length. Some smaller, individual spots may require one treatment. Other larger areas require three to four treatments every four to six weeks. A dermatologist can best assess the right course of treatment for your sunspots.
The Excel V Laser was approved by the FDA in 2010 and holds an excellent safety record. Bear in mind that any laser skin treatment must be performed by an experienced physician who understands laser science.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy for sun damage is a procedure that uses a photosensitizing drug to selectively apply light therapy to target pre-skin cancerous lesions and treat sun damaged skin. It’s important to again note that true sunspots are harmless, and though PDT is used to halt the progression of skin cancer over time, it also effectively treats sunspots. PDT is most often used on the face and scalp.
Since a topical medication is used in this therapy, PDT treatment involves multiple steps. After your dermatologist determines PDT treatment is the best course of treatment for your sunspots, your skin will be cleansed. Then, aminolevulinic acid will be applied to the entire surface of the skin that will be treated. The acid will need to incubate for approximately two hours. After incubation, you will return for a second appointment.
During the second appointment, you will sit under a blue light for approximately 15 minutes. The light activates the medication in the skin and selectively destroys the sun-damaged skin cells. After treatment, your skill will be extremely sun sensitive for 48 hours until the medication is completely metabolized. It’s critical during all phases of PDT to practice a rigorous sun protection routine, including staying out of the sun. Follow up occurs six weeks after treatment to re-evaluate the treated area.
PDT is a safe procedure that allows your dermatologist to specifically target sunspots. There are no long-term side effects and there is little to no scaring after the site heals.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are another effective treatment for how to get rid of sunspots. A chemical peel smooths and improves the appearance of the skin on the face. A chemical solution is applied to skin that causes it to exfoliate and peel off. The new, regenerated skin is typically smoother with a better color and tone.
There are three types of chemical peels—superficial, medium, and deep. Only superficial and medium peels are performed in our office.
- A superficial peel, aka lunchtime peel, uses alpha hydroxy acid or a similar mild acid to penetrate only the outer layer of skin. Superficial peels are used for mild skin discoloration and require one to seven days to heal. Makeup can be applied the following day after treatment.
- A medium peel uses glycolic or trichloroacetic acid to penetrate the outer and middle layers of skin to remove damaged skin cells. Medium peels treat age spots, freckles, and moderate skin discoloration. Post-peel care is more extensive and includes a daily skin soak and oral antiviral medication. Skin requires seven to 14 days to heal. Makeup can be worn after five to seven days. A follow-up appointment is required to monitor progress.
Chemical peels are a common cosmetic procedure, but there can be permanent side effects if not performed correctly. Also, bear in mind that not everyone is a candidate for chemical peels. Be sure to discuss your options with your dermatologist. At Vujevich Dermatology Associates, chemical peels are only performed by one of our physicians or highly-trained nurse practitioners.
Remember: Sun Protection is Always Important
Always use a regular sun protection routine to prevent sun damage to your skin. We treat a variety of skin conditions in our office, including how to get rid of sunspots. Contact us today if you have any unusual or concerning spots on your skin.
Vujevich Dermatology Associates offers medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology from some of the most highly trained physicians and clinicians in the greater Pittsburgh area. You can reach our team at 412-429-2570 or visit our contact page to see all of our locations. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.