Brown Spots

Brown spots are a common and stubborn sign of aging that can be impossible to remove without professional intervention. At the Laser and Dermatology Institute of California in Covina, California, Antonious Abraham, PA-C, and the dermatology team specialize in brown spot removal with noninvasive and minimally invasive technologies, such as PiQo and Pulse-dye treatments. Call the dermatology center today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What are brown spots?

Brown spots are areas of the skin that produce more melanin than others. Melanin, the pigment that gives the hair, skin, and eyes color, can cause dark spots to appear on the skin. These marks may look tan, brown, red, or even black. While brown spots are rarely cause for concern, they can be aesthetically unappealing. 

Fortunately, the dermatology team at the Laser and Dermatology Institute of California offers a wide range of treatments to significantly reduce the appearance of brown spots and hyperpigmentation.

What causes brown spots?

Brown spots are the direct result of overactive pigment cells producing too much melanin. While anybody can develop brown spots with age, ultraviolet (UV) rays tend to accelerate the process. Sun exposure, frequent sunburns (even during childhood), and tanning beds are the three most common risk factors for brown spots. Another factor to consider are hormonal imbalances that occur with age, pregnancy, and medications.

Hyperpigmentation affects any skin color, but brown spots are often more noticeable in individuals with fair skin. 

How are brown spots treated?

The laser and Dermatology Institute of California has an array of lasers and energy-based devices to treat brown spots. These devices direct laser or radiofrequency energy into the skin to shatter pigment to promote a more even skin tone.

Popular treatments your dermatologist may recommend include:

• PiQO4 laser
• Q YAG 1064 laser
• Lumecca intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy
• Fractora 

The team performs a comprehensive skin evaluation before recommending the appropriate treatment plan for your brown spots.

Can I get rid of brown spots on my own?

At-home treatments are rarely effective at reducing the appearance of stubborn brown spots. It is important to be evaluated by a healthcare professional to see what type of pigmented lesion the patient may have. 

Are brown spots preventable?

While brown spots are not always avoidable, practicing healthy skin care habits can reduce your risk of developing them. To prevent brown spots, the team may recommend:

• Limiting your sun exposure
• Avoiding tanning beds
• Reapplying broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen regularly
• Wearing long sleeves
• Investing in sun protection (wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, etc.)

These habits can also minimize your risk of skin cancer and other harmful skin conditions.

Achieve clearer, more even skin with brown spot treatments at the Laser and Dermatology Institute of California. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.