What should you know about chemical peel for age spots?

Age spots, also called sun spots, are areas of increased pigment that commonly follow long-term sun exposure. A peel loosens some surface cells and can make colour look more even. Improvement depends on the spot's depth, surrounding skin, and continued sun exposure; pigment can return or change after irritation.

Not every brown mark is an age spot. A spot that is asymmetrical, has an irregular edge or several colours, grows, crusts, or bleeds needs assessment before a peel. Cosmetic exfoliation should not cover up a lesion that requires diagnosis.

A clinician should examine the area and review your history of melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, eczema, cold sores, medicines, and previous reactions. Do not pick or scrub afterward. Use gentle skincare, moisturiser, and broad-spectrum sun protection, and pause other exfoliants or hair removal until the skin has recovered.

Glycolic acid may be used in some peel plans, but strength and contact time should be individualised. If the mark is part of broader sun-damaged skin, treatment may need to address the surrounding field rather than one isolated patch.

Call the clinic for severe pain, blistering, pus, fever, spreading redness, or swelling near the eye. Arrange prompt examination if the treated spot keeps changing, becomes darker in an uneven way, develops a crust or bleeding, or does not heal as expected.

Does this spot look suitable for cosmetic treatment? Should it be examined further first? Which peel ingredient and depth do you recommend? How can I lower the chance of pigment change? What signs mean I should stop aftercare and contact you?