How to fade sun spots

Sun spots, also called age spots or solar lentigines, are usually flat tan-to-brown areas on chronically exposed skin such as the face, hands, shoulders, and chest. They reflect pigment production after repeated ultraviolet exposure. A similar-looking patch can have another cause, so a clinician considers its border, colour, surface, and history before treatment. Sun-damaged skin may also show fine lines and uneven tone.

Use broad-spectrum sun protection, protective clothing, and shade to reduce further darkening and help prevent new spots. Do not scratch or use strong home acids on a spot that has not been assessed. Depending on the diagnosis and skin type, options may include a chemical peel, IPL photofacial, picosecond laser treatment, or cryotherapy for lesion removal. Each can cause temporary redness or colour change, so aftercare and sun avoidance matter.

Have a spot checked promptly if it changes in size, shape, colour, or texture, develops an irregular border, bleeds, crusts, becomes tender, or does not resemble your other spots. A suspicious lesion should be assessed before any fading procedure, because cosmetic treatment can obscure its appearance.

Does this spot match a sun spot or need further examination? Which option suits its location and my skin tone? How should I protect the area afterwards, and what change should prompt a review?