Sunspots or lentigoa are small, flat, dark areas on the skin. They usually appear in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders and arms. They are common in adults over 50, but can also appear in younger people.
Treatment
Since the pigment is found at the base of the epidermis (the top layer of the skin), any treatment that aims to lighten age spots must penetrate that layer of skin. At Medical Aesthetics we offer you several treatment options:
Cryotherapy (Freezing): this procedure treats the spot using a cold pencil for a few seconds, which destroys the pigment causing it. As the area heals, the skin appears lighter. Treatment can irritate the skin temporarily and carries a slight risk of permanent scarring or discoloration.
Chemical Peels: this procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove the top layers. The result is new, smoother skin. After the peel, there may be redness that lasts for a few hours or days. You will likely need several treatments to see results.
Topical prescription medications: the application of bleaching creams alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) can cause the spots to fade progressively over several months. Treatment may cause temporary itching, redness, burning, or dryness.
Mesotherapy: a minimally invasive technique that consists of injecting medications or other active ingredients with a depigmenting effect, in small amounts.
