Brown Spots

Brown spots are a common skin problem that occurs with age. They’re harmless but, depending on their size and location, may affect your appearance. At Ross Dermatology, medical dermatologists Kim Ross, MD, Ronald Davis, MD, and the team provide cutting-edge treatments for brown spots, including laser removal. To make an appointment, call the nearest office in San Antonio, Seguin, or La Vernia, Texas, or book online today.

What are brown spots?

Brown spots, or age spots, are discolored patches on the hands, face, or other areas of skin exposed to the sun. Anyone can experience brown spots, but they’re most common in middle-aged people 50 and older.

Brown spots aren’t cancerous, and they usually don’t cause problems. Still, it's crucial to seek treatment if they affect your confidence or quality of daily life.

What causes brown spots?

Brown spots occur when your body produces excess melanin (skin pigment). Researchers aren’t entirely sure why they form, but genetics may play a role. You’re also more likely to experience brown spots if exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. For example, you might develop brown spots if you work outside or use tanning beds.

Where do brown spots appear?

Brown spots can appear on various parts of your body, including:

• The shoulders
• Backs of the hands
• Face
• Upper back

If you spend lots of time outdoors, you might also experience brown spots on your forearms or legs.

How are brown spots diagnosed?

To diagnose brown spots, your Ross Dermatology specialist reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms. 

Then, they examine your skin, looking at each brown spot to assess its border, size, and shape. They also feel each spot to determine if it’s raised or has a smooth texture.

If your Ross Dermatology specialist suspects the brown spot is something else, they order a biopsy. During a biopsy, they remove a small piece of skin and send it to a lab for further analysis.

How are brown spots treated?

Treatment of brown spots depends on various factors, including their size and location. Whenever possible, the team at Ross Dermatology uses non-invasive laser treatment.  

Laser treatment uses specific wavelengths of light to remove the brown spot. After a series of treatments, the brown spot fades away, restoring your skin to its near-original condition*.

How many laser treatments will I need?

The number of laser treatments needed to remove a brown spot varies from person to person. Some people experience stunning results after one visit, but the team at Ross Dermatology typically recommends at least three.

To learn more about laser treatment for brown spots, make an appointment at Ross Dermatology by calling the nearest office or booking online today.

*Individual results may vary