Sometimes known as liver spots, sun spots are a common skin care problem experienced by adults as they get older. Resembling dark brown blemishes, these spots occur as a result of prolonged UV exposure. While these blotches can negatively affect your appearance, there are many ways a dermatologist can help treat them. If you’re concerned about the consequences UV exposure has on your skin, here are a few important points to know about sun spots.

Simple Guide to Sun Spots

How Do They Develop?

Sun spots form as part of your body’s reaction to UV light. Specifically, when your body is exposed to sunlight, it will release pigment to better defend itself against UV risks—such as skin cancer. Over time, this pigment, known as melanin, will cause areas of your skin to become darker. Usually, this hyperpigmentation will appear in areas that are subject to increased sun exposure—such as the face, shoulders, hands, back, and neck.

Are They Dangerous?

While you may not appreciate the cosmetic effect of sun spots, they are not associated with any dermatological health risks.

Why Should I Still Get a Dermatologist’s Opinion?

Even if you’re not concerned about cosmetic damage, you should still have these blemishes evaluated by a trusted dermatologist. In some cases, these spots may be hard to distinguish from skin cancer lesions. Your dermatologist will be able to evaluate the blemish to determine if it’s a result of hyperpigmentation.

How Do You Prevent Them?

You can prevent sun spots by minimizing your skin’s UV exposure—such as by staying indoors during peak sunlight hours of the day, covering up with clothes, or spending time in the shade.  Another effective way to prevent this type of hyperpigmentation is to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

How Can They Be Treated?

Although some over-the-counter lotions and peels can reduce the appearance of sun spots, most of these options will still leave noticeable traces of the blemish.

Dermatologists, however, can provide long-term sun spot reduction through intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment. With this non-invasive method, your provider will expose affected areas to a special light that helps rejuvenate the skin and minimizes the appearance of dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines.  

Sun spots don’t have to be stressful. As a patient of Heibel Dermatologg, LLC, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art skin care resources to minimize sun damage and other signs of aging—including IPL treatments. Beyond cosmetic care, Dr. Heibel is also equipped to provide exams and treatments for skin cancer concerns. To learn more about these capabilities, visit this Lincoln and Columbus, NE, dermatologist online. If you’d like to schedule a convenient consultation, call (402) 488-6969 to speak with the Lincoln office or (402) 564-1476 to reach the Columbus team.