Age Spots
Age spots, called solar lentigo or solar lentigines, are a common cosmetic problem for many patients. These spots appear in middle age or later and can be few or numerous. Typically, light brown flat spots appear on sun-exposed skin. Although these spots are harmless, many patients seek treatment for cosmetic purposes. These spots can be easily confused with a lentigo maligna, which is an early form of malignant melanoma.
Many treatments are available for the treatment of age spots. The list below contains some of the more commonly used treatments.
Topical medications
Over-the-counter
2% hydroquinone
Glycolic acid
Kojic acid
Vitamin C, topical
Retinol or retinaldehyde
Prescription
4%-8% hydroquinone
Azelaic acid
tretinoin
Chemical peels
Glycolic acid
Salicylic acid
Jessner’s solution
Tricholoracetic acid (TCA)
Laser & Intense Pulsed Light (IPL or “Photofacial”)
Nd:Yag (neodinium Yag)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)-resurfacing
Alexandrite
Erbium:Yag-resufacing
Microdermabrasion
Most effective when combined with topical therapy or chemical peels
Whatever your needs are, we will provide options for you that best fit your needs and budget. Whether you want the best possible result or you can’t afford any downtime, we will give you options that best suit your own personal circumstances and goals. Call our office to schedule your consultation.