What Are Age Spots?
If you've spent a lot of time in the sun, your skin has likely accumulated a few dark patches known as age spots. These areas are usually brought on by sun damage and/or the aging process and typically occur on the hands and face. Fortunately, there are ways that About Face & Body Medical Spa can treat patients experiencing these dark spots on their skin. Our Katy, TX facility is outfitted with high-tech equipment and an expertly trained staff, led by Michelle Osborne-Spencer, PA, to ensure our patients always receive the best possible care for age spots or any other cosmetic concern.
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What are Causes of Age Spots?
Age spots, also known as liver spots or sun spots, are caused primarily by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or tanning beds. These darkened patches develop when excess melanin, the skin’s pigment, accumulates in certain areas over time. Age spots are more common in individuals over 40 and tend to appear on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms. Genetics and fair skin may also increase the likelihood of developing them.
How are age spots treated?
Age spots, also known as sun spots, can be treated effectively with light- and laser-based procedures that target pigmentation. At our practice, options such as Sciton® BBL™ photorejuvenation and MOXI® gently break down unwanted pigment to reveal clearer, more even-toned skin. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion may also help reduce the appearance of mild discoloration by exfoliating damaged surface cells. Our team will recommend the right combination of treatments based on your skin type and the severity of your spots.
Age Spots FAQ
What causes age spots?
Age spots are caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. This overproduction is often triggered by prolonged and repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning beds. Aging also contributes to the development of age spots as the skin's ability to regenerate and repair itself diminishes over time.
Are age spots harmful?
Age spots are generally harmless and do not pose any health risks. However, they can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions, such as melanoma, a type of skin cancer. It is important to have our team at About Face & Body Medical Spa evaluate any new or changing spots to rule out serious conditions.
How can I prevent age spots?
The best way to prevent age spots is to protect your skin from UV exposure. This includes wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds. Additionally, using skinc are products with antioxidants and regularly moisturizing the skin can help maintain its health and resilience.
Managing Age Spots
Age spots can be treated in a variety of ways, such as laser skin resurfacing, MOXI, chemical peels, Forever Young™ BBL, Forever Clear® BBL, and skincare products. During your consultation, we can recommend the procedure that will likely yield the best results for your specific condition. Contact About Face & Body Medical Spa in Katy, TX today to take the first step in restoring your skin.