Sun spots on the skin: what to know

Sun spots, or solar lentigines, may be tan, brown, or darker than the surrounding skin. They commonly appear on areas that receive repeated sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders, chest, and arms. They are generally flat and smooth, but not every flat brown patch is a sun spot.

A clinician considers the mark’s pattern, border, colour, texture, and history. Take note of new lesions and compare them with nearby marks rather than trying to diagnose from a single photograph. Related reading includes [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/) and [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/).

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen as directed, reapply after swimming or heavy sweating, and combine it with shade and protective clothing. Gentle cleansing and moisturising are preferable to abrasive scrubs. Avoid using strong or unlabelled pigment products, especially on irritated skin.

For a confirmed sun spot that you want to fade, a dermatologist may discuss [IPL Photofacial](/treatments/laser-and-energy/ipl-photofacial/), [Picosecond Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/picosecond-laser-treatment/), [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), or [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/). Treatment choice depends on the lesion, location, skin tone, healing response, and the possibility of pigment changes afterward.

Have a mark examined if it is new and different, changes in size, shape or colour, develops several colours, becomes raised, rough, scaly, crusted, painful, or itchy, or bleeds or does not heal. These features are reasons for assessment, not proof of a particular condition. Delay cosmetic treatment until an unusual lesion has been reviewed.

Ask how the mark was identified, whether it needs dermoscopy or monitoring, what changes should prompt a return visit, and which treatment fits your skin. Ask about preparation, aftercare, sun avoidance, and the possibility of temporary colour change.