BROWN & AGE SPOT TYPES
WHAT CAUSES BROWN & AGE SPOTS?
What are pigmented skin lesions?
There are many types of pigmented skin lesions, from benign to malignant. Most of the pigmented skin lesions are amenable to laser removal, but malignant skin lesions should always be seen and managed by a dermatologist. Here, we will deal with the laser treatment of benign skin lesions only.
Melanin is what gives our skin its color. Pigmented lesions are dark in color simply because more melanin is abnormally concentrated in that one area of the skin. High concentrations of melanin can be due to various factors. Some factors may be genetic or hereditary and may be present at birth, but most occur with aging or as a result of overexposure to the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays.
Flat brown spots (Lentigines), also called age spots gradually appear in sun-exposed areas, particularly the backs of hands and the face. They do not fade with cessation of sun exposure. They should be evaluated like all pigmented lesions: If the pigmentation is homogeneous and they are symmetric and flat, they are most likely benign. Sunburn freckles are the result of sun damage and occur on the back, upper chest and shoulders. Most are harmless, but may be unattractive.
Café au lait, Nevus of Ota, Mongolian spots and other flat pigmented birthmarks are localized areas of increased pigmentation in the skin, which are present at birth. Most are benign also, but some, like Café au lait spots, if numerous, may be associated with Neurofibromatosis. That is why it is so important to have all pigmented lesions evaluated by a dermatologist.
Although most brown spots are easily ignored, many are quite conspicuous and can detract from your skin's natural beauty. Brown age spots often fade or disappear with a single laser treatment.
What types of brown spots or pigmented lesions can be treated with lasers?
Lasers are most commonly used for removing:
Lasers should not be used for treating cancers or suspected cancers. In these situations a biopsy needs to be done and the treatment, if required, should be done by a dermatologist.
