Freckles may be cute, but stubborn brown spots from years of sun exposure? Not so much. Sun damage can sneak up on us over time, leaving behind uneven skin tone, dark spots, and rough texture. The good news: modern dermatology offers safe and effective ways to fade sun spots, restore brightness, and protect your skin from future damage.

Understanding Sun Damage

Brown spots—often called age spots, liver spots, or solar lentigines—are areas of hyperpigmentation caused by cumulative sun exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) light triggers excess melanin production, which can lead to flat, tan-to-dark-brown spots on the face, chest, shoulders, arms, and hands.

Sun damage doesn’t just affect appearance. Over time, UV exposure can accelerate skin aging (wrinkles, laxity) and increase the risk of skin cancer. That’s why prevention and early treatment are key.

At-Home Options

Daily Sunscreen

The single most important step is preventing future spots. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors. Mineral-based formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are especially effective for sensitive skin.

Brightening Ingredients

Over-the-counter products can help fade existing pigmentation with consistent use:

• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that helps block pigment production and protects against free radicals.

• Niacinamide: Reduces inflammation and prevents new dark spots from forming.

• Retinoids (Retinol): Increase cell turnover, helping fade brown spots and improve overall texture.

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Gentle exfoliants that slough away dead skin cells, revealing brighter skin.

In-Office Treatments

When home care isn’t enough, dermatologists offer advanced treatments that deliver faster, more dramatic results:

Chemical Peels

Peels use a customized solution of acids (like glycolic, salicylic, or trichloroacetic acid) to remove the outer layer of damaged skin. This can lighten pigmentation, smooth rough patches, and improve overall tone.

Laser Therapy & Light-Based Treatments

• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Targets brown pigment and redness with minimal downtime.

• Fractional Lasers: Stimulate collagen while breaking up pigmentation, improving both spots and skin texture.

Cryotherapy

For isolated dark spots, liquid nitrogen can be applied to “freeze” and lighten them. This quick, in-office treatment is especially effective for stubborn solar lentigines.

Microneedling with Serums

Microneedling creates tiny channels in the skin, allowing brightening serums to penetrate more deeply. It also stimulates collagen, leading to smoother, healthier skin over time.

Lifestyle & Prevention

Treatments work best when paired with smart daily habits:

• Wear wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors.

• Avoid tanning beds—they dramatically accelerate skin damage.

• Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens, nuts) to help your skin fight free radical damage from within.

• Apply sunscreen to your hands, neck, and chest—these often-overlooked areas show sun damage early.

When to See a Dermatologist

Not all brown spots are harmless. Schedule a skin exam if you notice:

• A spot that’s asymmetrical, irregularly bordered, or changing in color/size

• New spots appearing rapidly

• Dark spots with itching, bleeding, or crusting

A dermatologist can determine whether a spot is sun damage or something that requires further evaluation, like melanoma or precancerous lesions.

Personalized Treatment at Pacific Crest Dermatology

Every patient’s skin is different. At Pacific Crest Dermatology, Dr. Samantha Schneider creates customized treatment plans to safely and effectively treat sun damage—whether through advanced in-office procedures, medical-grade skincare, or both.

📍 Pacific Crest Dermatology
1525 Vista Lane, Suite 120
Carson City, NV 89703
📞 (775) 451-3376
🕒 Monday–Thursday, 7:30am–4pm, plus the first Friday of every month

✨ Takeaway: Sun damage may be common, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. With the right mix of professional treatments, daily sun protection, and brightening skincare, you can reclaim a clearer, more youthful complexion.