Age spots

Diagnosis

Age spot diagnosis typically involves two main methods:

• Visual inspection: Your doctor can usually identify age spots by visually examining your skin. It is crucial to differentiate age spots from other skin issues, as the treatment approaches vary. Using an incorrect procedure may delay necessary therapies for other conditions.
• Skin biopsy: In a biopsy, a small skin sample is taken by your healthcare provider. This sample is then sent to a lab for evaluation. By examining the skin under a microscope, healthcare professionals can confirm or exclude the presence of skin cancer and other conditions like infections.

Treatment

Age spots often don’t require treatment but can be addressed for cosmetic reasons. Procedures aim to lighten or eliminate them, but as the pigment responsible for these spots resides deep within the outermost skin layer (epidermis), effective treatment requires penetration of this layer. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options thoroughly due to potential side effects.

Age spot treatments that involve skin removal are typically performed in a doctor’s office and don’t require hospitalization. The duration of each procedure and the time needed to see results may vary, ranging from weeks to months. After treatment, it’s vital to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and wear protective clothing when exposed to the outdoors.

Common treatment options for age spots include:

• Medications: To lighten the skin, one can utilize over the counter or prescribed creams, lotions, or gels. Common choices include hydroquinone, corticosteroids, or retinoids. It is important to note that these treatments may result in temporary itching, redness, burning, or dryness. These medications can gradually diminish the spots over several months.
• Laser and intense pulsed light: Lasers have the capability to eliminate cells that produce melanin or safely eliminate the top layer of the skin. Often, one or three laser therapy sessions are sufficient for many individuals to eliminate dark spots.
• Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is applied to the spot with a cotton-tipped swab for a few seconds, destroying excess pigment. As the area heals, the skin appears lighter. Possible side effects include temporary skin irritation and a slight risk of scarring or discoloration.
• Dermabrasion: Dermabrasion, though requiring more time to show results, has proven efficacy. According to a study, sunspots disappeared for 2 out of 5 patients who underwent the treatment twice a week for a 16-week period. Side effects that may occur include swelling, scabbing, and transient redness. A few months may pass before the pinkness goes away. Dermabrasion utilizes an exfoliating agent, like a device or scrub, to effectively eliminate age spots. The skin gives way to new growth.
• Microdermabrasion: Achieving modest and temporary results requires a series of procedures over several months. Some individuals may experience a slight redness or stinging sensation in the treated areas. Microdermabrasion is a gentler alternative to dermabrasion, resulting in mild skin imperfections appearing smoother. This may not be recommended for people who have rosacea or tiny red veins on the face.
• Chemical peel: For optimal results, chemical peels may be suggested alongside with microdermabrasion or cryotherapy. It may take multiple sessions before one starts to see any improvement. During this procedure, the top layers of skin are removed by administering a chemical solution to the skin. A smoother, new skin grows in its place. Scarring, infection, and skin color lightening or darkening are examples of potential side effects.