Sun spots on Asian skin: recognition and care

They are often tan to dark brown with clear edges and appear on exposed areas such as the face and hands. A new or changing mark should be examined before cosmetic treatment because not every brown lesion is a sun spot.

Sun spots, also called solar lentigines, reflect local pigment production after repeated ultraviolet exposure. Asian skin contains active pigment-forming cells and may show persistent colour changes after irritation, acne, or procedures as well, so appearance and history both matter.

Melasma more often forms broader, symmetrical patches on the face, while post-inflammatory pigmentation follows an injury or rash. A dermatologist may use close visual examination or a dermatoscope to check whether an isolated lesion has features that need sampling rather than lightening treatment.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin, reapply during prolonged outdoor time, and add shade, a hat, or protective clothing. Visible light can also worsen some pigment problems, and a tinted sunscreen may be worth discussing when facial discolouration is prominent.

Treatment is optional. Depending on the confirmed diagnosis and skin response, a dermatologist may discuss pigment-targeting creams, a chemical peel, cryotherapy, intense pulsed light, or a pigment laser. Settings and aftercare should be selected carefully because irritation can leave Asian skin with darker or lighter marks. Avoid applying strong bleaching mixtures without clinical guidance.

Arrange an examination for a spot that is new and evolving, has several colours, develops an irregular border, becomes raised, repeatedly crusts or bleeds, or feels persistently sore or itchy. These changes do not identify a diagnosis by themselves, but they should not be treated cosmetically without assessment.

Seek advice before a procedure if you form thick scars easily, have recently tanned, are using medicines that increase light sensitivity, or previously developed prolonged pigment change after skin treatment.

Ask what diagnosis best fits each mark, whether any lesion needs a biopsy, and which option suits your skin tone and tendency to pigment after inflammation. Clarify the expected aftercare, sun avoidance, likely need for repeat treatment, and plan if the area darkens afterward.