Your local

sun spot experts

in san antonio

What Are SunSpots?

A.K.A. Solar Lentigo, sunspots develop over time due to sun exposure and are a sign that the skin has been severely damaged.

Let LIV Dermatology help you discover how to identify, treat, and prevent them from developing!

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While most sunspots are benign, some are pre-cancerous, so it is important to identify and treat them swiftly. Here are some important things to look out for:

Shape: Although mainly round or oval, sun spots may have some irregular edges
Color: Sunspots range in color from tan to dark and are darker than your normal skin tone
Size: Most sunspots are greater than 6mm in size though they can vary
Location: Sunspots appear in places that receive the most sunlight such as your face and hands
Texture: They tend to be smooth rather than raised or bumpy

These indicators can help you to identify what may or may not be a sunspot, however, we recommend that you schedule an appointment to verify with a professional dermatologist!

FAQS

Sun spots, or solar lentigo, occur due to the cumulative impact of sun exposure throughout one’s life. They form when pigment-producing cells in the skin become activated, resulting in the deposition of pigments that create dark spots on the skin. These spots are quite common, affecting more than 90% of individuals with lighter skin who are 50 years or older, and they tend to appear on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, arms, and hands. The likelihood of sun spots developing increases with age, so it is essential to protect your skin from the rays of the sun.
Sunspots most commonly occur on the face, scalp, neck, hands, & arms. however, they may also be found on the legs, back, & chest!
We recommend consistently using proper sun protection. This includes a high SPF sunscreen and staying in the shade from the hours of 10AM to 4PM to avoid harmful rays. Sunglasses, hats, and other protective clothing can help reduce your chance of developing sun spots over time.
When it comes to treatment for sun spots, we recommend first scheduling an appointment with us. At LIV Dermatology, we will help you determine what treatment option is best for your skin. Some preferred treatments include the following:
Over the counter: Topical retinoids or lightening agents can help to minimize the appearance of the spots.
Laser treatments: Laser treatment allows for an increase in collagen production, allowing for healthier skin to arise and sun spots to diminish.

Sunscreen is Essential for All Skin Types & Ethnicities

Daily sunscreen use is important for individuals of all ethnicities and skin types to shield against harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Regardless of skin tone, sunscreen serves as a vital defense against these risks, promoting long-term skin health.