Age spots are brown or dark brown pigment spots resulting from increased and uneven melanin synthesis and distribution in the epidermis. These flat, clearly defined spots are typically painless, non-itchy, and persistent, rarely fading on their own.

The most common cause of age spots is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This stimulates pigment cells to increase melanin production, a natural defense mechanism for the skin. When this process continues, melanin is unevenly distributed, leading to brown spots on sun-exposed areas such as the face, backs of hands, forearms, or shoulders. Other contributing factors include genetic predisposition, fair skin, medications that increase photosensitivity, and unhealthy habits like sleep deprivation, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption, which can accelerate their appearance.

Doctor Trung advises a patient on a skincare routine during a consultation. *Benh vien Da khoa Tam Anh*.

Unprotected, prolonged sun exposure can cause existing pigment spots to darken or new ones to appear. However, not all brown spots indicate age spots. It is crucial to consult a dermatologist if any lesion rapidly changes in size, color, or shape, develops irregular borders, bleeds, or ulcerates.

Treatment options for age spots vary based on their severity. For mild cases, doctors may prescribe skin-lightening agents. Chemical peels can also be considered for superficial lesions, promoting epidermal renewal.

For darker or long-standing age spots, laser therapy offers greater effectiveness. This method selectively targets melanin, breaking down pigment particles into minute fragments for gradual elimination by the body, while also limiting damage to surrounding tissues.

At Benh vien Da khoa Tam Anh, following an examination and diagnosis of hyperpigmentation, doctors may recommend Fotona StarWalker laser treatment for specific cases of age spots, melasma, freckles, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This system integrates picosecond and nanosecond laser technologies, employing multiple wavelengths to target various pigment types at different skin depths. Treatment efficacy is influenced by the lesion type, hyperpigmentation severity, individual skin response, and post-treatment care.

Preventing age spots requires daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, ideally with a PA+++ or PA++++ rating. Reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours during outdoor activities, and supplement with physical protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing. Furthermore, a healthy lifestyle, minimizing factors that induce oxidative stress, and using doctor-recommended antioxidant agents or skin-tone-evening products can slow photoaging and lower the risk of age spot development.

Doctor Duong Quoc Trung

Department of Aesthetics

Benh vien Da khoa Tam Anh Hanoi