Sun damage spots are skin lesions often referred to as solar lentigines or age spots. When your skin is repeatedly exposed to the sun, the melanin produced by the body to protect the skin can begin to clump together and form brown or black spots. While the National Institutes of Health states no medical treatment is necessary to remove these age-related spots, you can improve the appearance of your skin.
Step 1
Use a cream containing hydroquinone, suggests the National Institutes of Health. Hydroquinone is a skin bleaching cream that helps break up the clusters of melanin and causes the spots to fade. It's sometimes combined with a topical retinoid to provide better results.
Step 2
Undergo cryotherapy treatments to remove the age spots. Freezing the sun damage spots can also destroy the clustered melanin, explains MayoClinic.com. Liquid nitrogen is the most commonly used agent, but your doctor may apply a different substance to help fade the spots.
Step 3
Have skin rejuvenation treatments, such as dermabrasion or a chemical peel, according to MayoClinic.com. Both types of procedures remove the surface layer of the skin, where the solar lentigines are found. Once the area heals and new skin forms, it lacks the previous signs of sun damage, providing a more youthful appearance to the skin.
Step 4
Talk to your dermatologist about laser therapy. When laser energy is directed over affected areas of the skin, it destroys the clustered melanin causing the age spots. MayoClinic.com explains that more than one treatment is often necessary to fully get rid of sun damage spots on the face.
Tips and Warnings
- The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more to reduce the chances of sun damage and subsequent age spots. You may also benefit from wide-brimmed hats or sticking to the shade whenever heading outdoors. Avoid prolonged sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., cautions the American Academy of Dermatology.
- If a skin lesion changes in color, size or texture, check with a doctor or dermatologist. This skin lesion may be a sign of skin cancer. If you're unsure or concerned with a sun damage spot, talk to your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Hydroquinone
