Small, dark areas that appear on your face and hands as you age may be harmless, but they can still make you feel self-conscious.
If you're tired of covering age spots with makeup, Skin Deep Laser MD in Fort Worth, TX, can help. Led by Dr. Laura S. Riehm, a Diplomat of the American Board of Anesthesiology and expert in medical aesthetics, we offer treatments to reduce the appearance of irregular pigmentation for a more youthful, even skin tone.
What Are Age Spots?
Age spots usually appear on the face, shoulders, arms, and hands – basically any area commonly exposed to the sun. These spots are generally brownish in color and typically develop in people older than 30, but you may get them sooner if you spend a lot of time in the outdoors or live in a sunny area, such as Texas.
Medically, age spots are not dangerous. Cosmetically, though, they can make you look older than you actually are.
Age Spots vs. Freckles vs. Sunspots
Age spots, freckles, and sunspots are all types of pigmentation, but they differ in their causes and appearances.
Freckles are small, light-brown spots that typically appear in childhood and become more noticeable with increased sun exposure. They're usually genetic and fade with limited sun.
Sunspots (also called solar lentigines) and age spots often refer to the same thing — flat, darkened patches caused by cumulative sun exposure over time. These appear in adulthood and don't fade on their own.
Our Age Spot Treatments
Dr. Riehm and her team offer several treatments to effectively fade age spots and create a more even complexion.
PicoFOCUS® Laser
PicoFOCUS laser is one of the most effective treatments on the market for hyperpigmentation. It's a gentle, fractionated light-based therapy that's safe for all skin types. PicoFOCUS can also reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as acne scars.
Icon MaxG™ Photofacial
Icon MaxG photofacial emits light that penetrates the outer layer of your skin to target hemoglobin and melanin, two pigmented compounds that contribute to discoloration. The coloration absorbs the light energy, then dissolves, and is eliminated by the body.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can help accelerate the rate at which you shed old skin cells, revealing fresh, new, evenly pigmented skin. These treatments are personalized to your skin type and can address many other concerns, including fine lines, acne, acne scars, and uneven texture.
Topical Products
Mild discolorations in your skin may also benefit from topical creams that help them fade. Popular products include brightening serums and hydroquinone creams. The most effective solutions will be medical-grade, available through a doctor's office, such as Skin Deep Laser MD.
Which Treatment Is Best for Me?
The best treatment for your age spots depends on your skin's health, the number and depth of the spots, and their color. Dr. Riehm and her team provide a thorough analysis of your skin and recommend treatments best suited to your skin tone. Every patient is given a customized plan to help them achieve their aesthetic goals.
Why Choose Skin Deep Laser MD?
At Skin Deep Laser MD in Fort Worth, age spot treatments are guided by medical expertise and a deep commitment to patient safety. Led by Dr. Laura S. Riehm, a board-certified anesthesiologist with advanced training in aesthetic medicine, the clinic offers results-driven services in a medically supervised setting — something many med spas lack.
Patients benefit from physician-level care using FDA-approved laser and light-based technologies that effectively target pigmentation without damaging surrounding skin. Dr. Riehm's personal experience with ineffective skincare fuels her mission to provide proven, effective solutions for aging skin. You'll receive honest advice, personalized care, and noticeable results.
FAQs
How Many Sessions Does It Take To Remove Age Spots?
The number of sessions needed to remove age spots depends on the treatment method and your skin's response.
Most patients see noticeable changes after just one or two IPL or laser treatments, though a full series of 2–4 sessions may be recommended for optimal results. Lighter pigmentation may fade faster, while deeper or more widespread spots may take longer.
For chemical peels, a series of 3–6 treatments spaced a few weeks apart is often recommended to gradually fade pigmentation. Topical products may take several weeks to months to show visible improvement.
Are Age Spot Treatments Painful?
Age spot treatments are generally well tolerated and considered minimally uncomfortable.
IPL and laser sessions often feel like a quick snap of a rubber band against the skin, but most patients don't require numbing. Chemical peels may produce a tingling or mild stinging sensation. After treatment, some redness or sensitivity is normal, but downtime is minimal.
At Skin Deep Laser MD, treatments are performed under the supervision of a physician, utilizing gentle, FDA-approved tools to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the process.
Will Age Spots Come Back After Treatment?
Treated age spots typically fade or disappear permanently. However, new age spots can form if the skin is exposed to the sun with insufficient protection. Think of treatment as removing existing damage — not a cure for future sun exposure. That's why post-treatment skin care is essential.
Can I Prevent New Age Spots?
Yes, consistent sun protection is key to preventing new age spots. Since sun exposure is the primary cause, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Other steps to take include:
- Wearing wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses when outdoors
- Seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Avoiding tanning beds
- Incorporating antioxidant-rich skincare, like vitamin C serums
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you're tired of age spots or other types of discoloration, there are numerous solutions available to restore your skin and your confidence.
For a thorough analysis of your complexion and personalized recommendations on the best ways to treat age spots, book an appointment at Skin Deep Laser MD in Fort Worth. Call us today at 817.263.7546.
