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Brown Spots and Freckles

Brown Spots and Freckles

What are freckles?

Freckles are small flat brown dots arising on the face and other sun exposed areas. They are most often seen in fair skinned people, especially those with red hair. The brown colour is due to increased melanin pigment production and localized, concentrated accumulation in the skin cells. Melanocytes are stimulated to make more melanin when exposed to the sun. Therefore freckles are prominent in the summer months, but fade considerably or disappear in the winter. Apart from sun protection, no particular treatment is necessary.

What are “age spots” or lentigines?

“Age spots” or “liver spots” are medically termed solar lentigines (a single spot is called a solar lengtigo). These are larger flat brown spots found commonly on the face and hands in middle age adults. Unlike freckles they tend to persist for long periods and don’t disappear in the winter. Solar lentigines are common seen in those with fair skin, but may also occur in those who tan easily and have had a lot of sun exposure in the past. Lentigines are due to localised proliferation of melanocytes.

How can I treat my brown spots?

Brown marks may fade with regular use of broad-spectrum, high SPF sunscreens and sun protection. Fading creams which contain hydroquinone, kojic acid, arbutin, alpha-hydroxy acids, vitamin C, retinoids, or azelaic acid can also be used. Procedures such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, cryotherapy, or lasers that target melanin pigment in the skin would work more effectively than topical creams.
Should I be concerned about my brown spots?
If your brown spot looks asymmetrical, has irregular borders, multiple colors, large in diameter and/or the appearance has evolved/changed (ABCDEs of malignant change) you should see your doctor for advice.

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Reds and browns getting you down?

Posted By : CSDS
Tags : Acne, Broken Blood Vessels, Intense Pulsed Light, Rosacea
Comments : 0
While not technically a laser, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) delivers broad-spectrum amplified waves of light to the skin. This device can be used for improvement of sun damage, acne and rosacea, broken blood vessels, dark spots and some birthmarks. Since the IPL produces short...
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Treatments and Conditions

  • Aging Skin
  • Skin Cancer
    • Squamous Cell Carcinoma
    • Melanoma
    • Basal Cell Carcinoma
    • Actinic Keratosis
    • Mohs Micrographic Surgery
  • Facial Treatments
    • Rosacea Treatments
    • Laser Skin Resurfacing
    • Non-Surgical Nose Job
    • Lip Enhancement
    • Hyaluronic Acids
    • Botulinum toxins (e.g. Botox Cosmetic®, Xeomin®, Dysport®)
    • Brown Spots and Freckles
    • Microdermabrasion
    • Acne Scar Removal
    • Non-Surgical Skin Tightening (e.g. Thermage®, Ulthera®)
    • Cosmetic Removal of Blemishes
    • Chemical Peels
    • Sculptra®
    • Selphyl
    • Eye lash enhancement (Latisse®)
  • Body Treatments
    • Psoriasis
    • Hair Transplantation
    • Vascular Birthmarks
    • Excessive Sweating (Hyperhydrosis)
    • Eczema
    • Laser Hair Removal
    • Hand Rejuvenation
    • Laser Tattoo Removal
    • Non-Surgical Fat Reduction/Body Contouring
    • Sclerotherapy
    • Treatment of Red Spots
  • Surgical Treatments
    • Tumescent Liposuction
    • Liposuction Highlights of Your Procedure Day
    • Fat Transfer
    • Liposuction
    • Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)
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