What Are Sunspots?
The sunspots may appear as dark, red and scaly spots on skin that has been exposed to the sun, like the face, lips, arms, and hands. Sensitivity to heat or sun exposure can accompany this condition, making the affected areas tender. They are common in people with fair skin who spend a lot of time in the sun.
Sunspots can occur from sun damage, which is called solar or actinic keratosis. They can also be caused by ageing and are known as solar lentigines, liver spots, or age spots.
Skin Assessment
It’s important to note that sunspots caused by sun damage, AKA solar keratosis, are deemed potentially precancerous. Without proper treatment, there is a risk of them progressing into a type of cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Nonetheless, those resulting from skin ageing are benign and can be efficiently managed with pigment laser therapy. Hence, the accurate evaluation of these sunspots by Skin Cancer doctors is crucial in devising an efficient treatment strategy.
Early Intervention
Early intervention is crucial for managing and preventing the potential progression of sunspots caused by sun damage (solar keratosis) into more serious health concerns.
Regular skin checks are essential for identifying any changes in your skin, especially if you have a history of sun exposure. During a skin check, a skin cancer specialist will examine your skin for any unusual spots, moles, or growths. They may use a dermatoscope, a special tool that allows them to see the skin in greater detail. If they find any suspicious areas, they may recommend a biopsy to determine if the cells are cancerous.
Remember, early detection and intervention are key to effectively managing sunspots and maintaining healthy skin. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your skin.
Treatment for Sun Spots
Sun spots can be treated with different procedures depending on the cause.
While Laser pigment removal is the best approach for treating sunspots due to ageing, Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is the most effective, non-invasive technique for removing sunspots caused by sun damage (also referred to as solar keratosis) in just one session.
Skin Laser resurfacing, also known as Fraxel laser, is a powerful remedy for sunspots caused by sun damage or ageing.
Schedule an appointment with our skin specialists today to discuss your personalised sunspot removal treatment plan and take the first step towards clearer, more radiant skin.