Dermatologists advise that you be well attuned to your skin and with every spot or marking, so that anything out of the ordinary can be brought to their attention. As the body matures, moles and dark spots tend to increase in number, which is a normal part of aging.
However, a normal part of aging does not mean you should just come to accept these dark spots. If they affect how you feel about yourself, it may be time to see a dermatologist for an evaluation, as effectively treating these spots requires an accurate assessment and specialized care. Additionally, dark spots that are new or have certain characteristics may need removal for health purposes. As such, it is important to see a dermatologist about any new or changing spots or blemishes on your skin.
What Are the Dark Spots on My Skin?
Dark spots on the skin are also called liver spots and are usually a result of years of sun exposure. Ultraviolet light speeds up the production of melanin – the pigment that gives skin its color – which can lead to the development of dark brown spots.
Liver spots usually affect older patients, hence, they are also referred to as age spots. These spots are flat, brown blemishes on the skin, which may look like freckles but are much larger in size. A telltale sign of a liver spot is if it appears in the areas that are usually exposed to sunlight.
Why Should I See a Dermatologist for Liver Spots?
The decision to see a dermatologist for liver spots is ultimately up to you. If it has become a source of embarrassment, there is no reason to delay treatment. Another reason why you should see a dermatologist is to get an accurate diagnosis. New moles, which are also dark spots by description, are at greater risk of becoming cancerous than old moles. Changes to old moles are also a sign of skin cancer. Ruling out skin cancer and starting dermatological treatment for dark brown spots requires a visit to the dermatologist.
What Can Be Done About Age Spots?
Dermatologists can use various treatments for hyperpigmentation. Over-the-counter treatments do not work as effectively as in-office treatments, such as:
- Cosmetic Peels. Chemical peels improve the appearance of liver spots by peeling away old layers of skin and revealing new skin. They can improve the appearance of brown spots, but it usually takes multiple treatments to achieve desired results.
- This method uses crystals to buff away the topmost layer of skin and reveal new skin, diminishing age spots. Microdermabrasion, when combined with chemical peels, typically produces better results.
- Laser Resurfacing. Laser treatment uses light energy, which is absorbed by dark spots and kills melanin-producing cells. In two to three sessions, liver spots can be dramatically lightened.
- Q-Switched ND YAG Laser. In just a single treatment session, the Q-Switched ND YAG laser can remove dark spots on the skin by shattering pigmentation into tiny particles, which will then be absorbed and eliminated by the body.
Dermatologist in South Miami, FL
At the Children’s Skin Center, we not only treat pediatric patients but also adults with skin issues. For the removal of age spots, we offer a range of cosmetic dermatology treatment options, and we can recommend the best one for your unique needs. We offer all the treatments mentioned above and more.
Our goal is to help you feel and look your very best, so you can take on the world. To schedule an appointment with our board-certified dermatologist, call or text our office today at (305) 669-6555. We have locations in Miami, Coral Gables, Doral, and West Kendall.
