Targeting Brown Spots and Sun Damage

Hyperpigmentation, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Laser Treatments, Melasma, Newsletters, Non-Invasive Treatment
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Emily Oehler, PA-C

Brown spots and uneven pigmentation can be some of the most stubborn and visible signs of skin aging. Whether you call them sun spots, age spots, or lentigines, these flat, brown marks usually appear on areas most exposed to the sun: face, hands, chest, and arms. Over time, repeated sun exposure can lead to not just isolated spots, but also an overall “mottled” or patchy look known as photodamage.

If you’ve noticed these changes, you’re far from alone. Photodamage is one of the top concerns patients bring to our office, and for good reason: it can add years to your appearance, make skin tone look dull or uneven, and even contribute to that “weathered” look that no amount of makeup can quite cover.

When a patient comes in hoping to erase brown spots and restore a more even complexion, the first step is understanding exactly what’s happening in their skin. Lentigines are the direct result of UV exposure, sometimes decades ago, which triggers excess melanin production in small, concentrated patches. Photodamage can be more diffuse: sun exposure gradually disrupts the skin’s natural pigment processes, resulting in a mix of spots, freckling, and an overall uneven skin tone. Some of the most effective in-office options we offer include:

Fractional Lasers (Fraxel® THULIUM, LaseMD®, Clear + Brilliant® Permea)

These devices use laser energy to target and break up excess pigment, helping fade brown spots and even out skin tone. They also stimulate collagen for brighter, smoother skin overall.

Q-switched 532 nm Lasers (SPECTRA™, Revlite®)

Ideal for targeting individual lentigines with precision—often producing dramatic results in just one or two treatments.

IPL with RF (Elos Plus®)

Intense Pulsed Light combined with radiofrequency is excellent for more diffuse sun damage, treating both red and brown discoloration and delivering a subtle tightening effect.

CHEMICAL PEELS

Professional peels can speed cell turnover and help lift superficial pigmentation, especially when paired with laser or light-based treatments.

Every patient’s plan is tailored to their skin type, pigmentation pattern, and lifestyle. For some, combination therapy such as lasers plus peels or IPL delivers the best results. We also factor in maintenance, as ongoing sun protection and gentle pigment-correcting skincare are essential for preserving results. That’s where a thoughtful at-home routine makes all the difference. At skinfo®, you’ll find top-tier options to complement your in-office results—such as mineral-based sunscreens like ISDIN® Eryfotona Ageless SPF 50, antioxidant serums like skinfo® CE + GTP Serum, SkinCeuticals® C E Ferulic, and Alastin® C-RADICAL Defense Antioxidant Serum, as well as pigment-fading treatments like SkinMedica® Even & Correct Advanced Brightening Treatment. These products work together to help prevent new spots, defend against future sun damage, and keep your complexion clear and radiant. And remember: daily sun protection is non-negotiable— even after you’ve treated existing discoloration.

It’s important to know: Fall and winter are the best times to have these treatments. With less sun exposure and more time spent indoors, your skin can heal more safely and effectively, and you’ll be ready to reveal your results by spring and summer.

Brown spots and photodamage don’t have to be a permanent part of your story, schedule a cosmetic consultation today!
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