Ugh – another one?! Lately, it seems like age spots have been popping up left and right. Some of us are guilty of not using proper skin care on our face, neck or chest while we’re out in the sun. If you’ve been skipping out on sun protection, you’re likely to start seeing age spots on your body. The doctors at the Santa Monica Laser and Skin Care Center are here to help you understand what age spots are, how we get them and how we can get rid of them.
What are age spots?
Age spots are those unflattering flat brown spots that sprinkle themselves all over our neck, chest and on spots on our face like the nose. These spots tend to range in color from a light brown tint, to red and black. The color of the age spot depends on your skin tone, and how much that area is exposed to the sun.
These age spots are not actually caused by age. They’re actually caused by sun damage that has accumulated over the years. If you have fair skin, you need to take extra precaution when you’re out in the sun. Those with paler skin are more likely to develop sun spots.
How can I spot the difference between an age spot and skin cancer?
This is a good question – and being able to spot the difference between an age spot and skin cancer is important! It’s important you carefully observe the spot and go see a dermatologist to determine if it’s melanoma or just a harmless sunspot.
The first signs of melanoma are changes in shape, color, size or feel of an existing mole. Although, melanoma often begins as a new mole. A common trick used to remember what to look for is “ABCDE.”
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
Asymmetry – Is it not symmetrical? Does one half not mirror the other half?
A border that is irregular – Are the edges ragged? Do the edges blur on the outline?
A color that is uneven – Are their different shades of color (brown, black, tan)?
Diameter – Is the spot growing in size?
Evolving – Has the mole/spot changed at all over the past few weeks?
How can I get rid of age spots?
Fraxel Restore Dual Laser
Now that you know what an age spot is and what it looks like, let’s get rid of them! Our doctors recommend the Fraxel Restore Dual Laser to help dramatically improve your age spots and brown pigment.
Treatments with the Fraxel Restore Dual Laser result in the rapid clearance of abnormal brown pigment from the skin. After your Fraxel treatment, your skin tone will appear even and your age spots will be noticeably reduced. While evening your skin tone, Fraxel will also help smooth wrinkles and improve your skin’s overall appearance.
PicoSure Laser Skin Revitalization
PicoSure is one of the biggest and best things to ever happen to the skin care industry. This tiny laser has the capability of making our skin look smooth, blemish-free and radiant. Say goodbye to unwanted pigments like age spots or acne scars.
Within your first treatment, you’ll notice just how much those stubborn pigmented spots have faded. Not only does PicoSure work wonders for age spots, but it also helps with acne, acne scars, and wrinkles. This is the laser treatment you’ve been searching for!
P.S. – Don’t forget we’re running a special on these two laser treatments right now (plus you can get FREE Botox or Juvederm). Head over to our specials page to learn more!
This year is all about wearing less makeup and feeling more confident in your own skin. If you want to start feeling confident in your skin, come see one of our dermatologist for a free beauty consultation.
Call us at (310) 906-4048 or BOOK ONLINE.
