Solar Lentigo (Sun Spot) Treatment
A solar lentigo – also known as an age spot, sun spot, or liver spot – is a hyperpigmented raised or flat patch that appears on parts of the skin that have experienced long-term sun exposure. Lentigines are typically found on the forehead, nose, and hands, and are more common among people with fair complexions.
While many people who first notice the appearance of age spots might have concerns about malignancy, solar lentigines are actually harmless. However, their association with advancing age can bring about feelings of self-consciousness. Fortunately, there are contemporary treatments that are highly effective in fading and even removing them entirely. The experts at IDI offer a wide variety of state-of-the-art solutions for removing age spots, helping patients uncover more youthful, healthy skin.
What Are Solar Lentigines?
Solar lentigines develop as a result of continued exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning beds. The skin responds to the exposure by accelerating the production of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. Melanin helps to absorb ultraviolet light and mitigate damage to keratinocytes, the predominant cells that make up the epidermis, or the top layer of the skin. The overproduction of melanin ultimately leads to clusters of highly pigmented cells in the skin.
Many lighter-skinned people will eventually develop solar lentigines, particularly if they spent a lot of time in the sun. Unless there is reason to believe that the spot is malignant, solar lentigines do not require medical intervention except for cosmetic purposes.
Solar Lentigines Diagnosis
Most qualified dermatologists can recognize harmless solar lentigines during a visual inspection. However, your doctor will likely perform additional tests, such as a skin biopsy, to be certain that there are no potentially dangerous abnormalities.
Solar Lentigines Treatment Options
There are numerous, highly effective treatment options for patients who wish to remove sun spots. These include but are not limited to:
- Chemical Peel: A chemical peel is the application of an acidic solution to the skin to remove the outermost layers and reveal the smoother, clearer skin underneath.
- Dermabrasion: Dermabrasion is the application of a powerful rotary brush to the skin. The aggressive action mechanically removes the exterior layer of skin and stimulates collagen production. This technique is used to address sun spots, fine lines and wrinkles, and acne scarring.
- Laser therapy: High-energy pulsed light treatments target and destroy the accumulated melanin in the epidermis, which the body absorbs and ultimately eliminates.
The team at IDI specializes in providing customized treatment solutions to patients based upon their concerns, skin conditions, lifestyles, and goals. To discover the best sun spot removal options for you, please contact the professionals at IDI for a comprehensive consultation.