Just because we are getting older doesn’t necessarily mean we want to look older. While fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots can give us away, our Lewiston, NY, dermatologists, Dr. Anne Ramsdell and Dr. Craig Miller, can help treat problems like age spots to help you feel more confident in your appearance—read on to learn how!
What are age spots?
Age spots, or liver spots, are little dark spots on the skin that usually appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, arms, and hands. As you might assume from the name alone, age spots are common in adults over 50 years old. Those with fair skin and those who spend a lot of time in the sun are at the highest risk for developing age spots.
While age spots are harmless, it’s a good idea to have any new changes in your skin checked out by your Lewiston, NY, skin doctor at least once a year. In some cases, the age spot may actually turn out to be skin cancer. Consequently, it’s important to take the necessary precautions and see a dermatologist if you notice any changes in your skin.
How do you get rid of age spots?
Despite being harmless, most people feel self-conscious about their age spots and want to get rid of them. Fortunately, there are a few methods that your dermatologist may recommend that can help them fade or go away completely. This may include skin-lightening creams or lotions. Some of these products can be purchased without a prescription; however, you’ll want to consult with your dermatologist to find the one that’s right (and safe) for your skin.
Of course, these lightening treatments may not give you the results you want. A dermatologist can provide you with prescription skin-lightening creams that can provide significant results. Other treatment options to treat age spots include,
Laser treatment: In one or two sessions, laser therapy can help age spots fade significantly.
Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy or freezing the age spots can also lighten them over time. This is a quick procedure, but there may be temporary blistering after treatment.
Chemical peel: Another way to remove the damaged outer layer of skin is with a chemical peel, which applies a special solution to the face. This can be a great option for patients wishing to treat age spots on their hands.
It’s also important that you apply sunscreen daily to prevent new age spots from forming. Choose a full-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, is water-resistant, and has an SPF of at least 30.
Contact us!
If you are dealing with age spots and other skin problems that are affecting both your skin and self-esteem, the team here at Niagara Dermatology Associates in Lewiston and Kenmore, NY, are here to help. Call us today at (716) 205-8324 to learn more.