Melanin are the pigments that give skin its color, which can be activated by exposure to UV rays. Melanin is what causes the skin to tan or become darker when you are out in the sun – it is designed to help protect the skin from UV damage. Over time, continued sun exposure can lead to clumps of melanin in the skin. This is what causes skin spots, a common skin issue as you get older. At MJR Dermatology, we offer treatments for skin spots at our clinic in Lawrenceville, GA.
Clumps of melanin in the skin are referred to as sun, age and liver spots. Years of exposure to the sun can result in overactive melanin, especially in those with lighter colored skin. It is very common for those over 50 years of age to have speckled skin from decades of UV ray exposure, which is why these solar lentigines are referred to as age spots. However, even younger individuals can have sun spots if they spend excessive time in the sun without sunscreen or skin protection.
Sun spots are usually tan or brown with a flat surface. They can be small freckles or larger blotches up to a half-inch in diameter. The most common places for sun spots are on the face, scalp, shoulders, chest and other areas commonly exposed to the sun.
Got Spots?
Not all skin spots are sun or age spots. There are some skin lesions that can be precancerous or caused by other conditions. Dr. Matthew Reschly is a highly experienced dermatologist that can examine any concerning skin spots and determine if they pose any health risks. Most skin spots are solar lentigines, but if the spot is raised, oddly colored or irregular in shape, it should be examined by a dermatologist. Dr. Reschly can recommend treatment or the best options for skin spot removal for cosmetic purposes. We offer the following options for our patients that “got spots” and want them gone:
Most sun and age spots can be cosmetically removed to improve the appearance of the skin, which we can perform here at MJR Dermatology. We also provide advanced medical and surgical treatments for other types of skin lesions and spots. To schedule a skin spot exam and consultation, call our office in the North Atlanta area in Lawrenceville, GA.