Many different types of pigmentations or brown spots can be found on the skin. It is important to distinguish between benign and malignant pigment spots, and also between a mole (naevus) and another type of skin pigmentation like freckles or age spots.

A correct diagnosis is necessary to determine the best treatment option.

​​

​Freckles, are harmless pigmentation spots that darken with UV exposure and fade away in winter.

Freckles can be genetic; treatment is not necessary.  

Prevention through adequate sun protection is the most important to avoid accumulated UV damage.

​

Age spots ('liver spots' or lentigo solaris/senilis), develop gradually through exposure to sunlight over the years. The older we get, the more spots appear on the most sun-exposed parts like the face, décolleté and the back of the hands. Lighter skin types are more prone.

Prevention by careful UV protection is the best way to avoid age spots and UV damage. 

​

Freckles and age spots are often aesthetically unsightly, but benign. They can often give the face and hands a very irregular complexion, resulting in a less fresh and older general appearance.

Age spots are usually treated most efficiently with laser, IPL or cryotherapy.

Creams can lighten the spots, and the correct skin products are important for maintenance after laser treatment and to reduce the appearance of new spots.

Annual maintenance treatments in autumn or winter are recommended, because dysregulated melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment) will always create new pigment spots when exposed to sunlight.

​

Good UV protection remains essential!