SUN SPOTS: WHAT ARE THEY AND HOW CAN YOU PREVENT THEM? 5 TIPS FROM A COSMETIC DERMATOLOGIST

Many people notice small brown spots appearing on their face, hands, chest, or shoulders as they get older. These so-called “sun spots” are among the most common signs of cumulative sun exposure and skin ageing.

The good news? While sun spots can be treated, prevention remains the most effective strategy.

What Are Sun Spots?

Sunspots are among the most visible signs of cumulative sun exposure. They typically appear on areas that receive frequent sunlight, such as the face, neck, décolleté, shoulders, forearms and hands.

Prevention plays a key role. Protecting the skin against ultraviolet, blue and infrared light can help reduce the development of new pigmentation and prevent existing spots from becoming more noticeable.

When sunspots are already present, treatment options may include personalised skincare, chemical peels and laser treatments, depending on your skin type and the nature of the pigmentation.

Why Do Sun Spots Develop?

When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. Over time, repeated UV exposure can cause melanin to accumulate unevenly, resulting in visible brown spots.

Sun spots do not appear overnight. In fact, the pigmentation you see today is often the result of sun exposure that occurred years or even decades ago.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing sun spots:

• Frequent sun exposure

• History of sunburns

• Use of tanning beds

• Fair skin types

• Increasing age

• Genetic predisposition

How Can You Prevent Sun Spots?

1. Wear Sunscreen Every Day

Daily sunscreen use is the single most effective way to prevent sun spots.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it every morning, even on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, contributing to long-term skin damage.

Remember to reapply when spending time outdoors.

2. Use Sunscreen Generously and Reapply Correctly and protect More Than Just Your Face

Most people remember sunscreen for their face but forget other areas that are exposed daily.

The neck, décolleté, ears, shoulders and hands are among the first places where sun damage and pigmentation become visible. These areas deserve the same attention as your face.

Many people apply sunscreen, but not enough of it. For optimal protection, sunscreen should be applied generously to all exposed areas of the skin approximately 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Don't forget commonly missed areas such as the ears, neck, décolleté, hands and feet.

While no sunscreen provides all-day protection, regular reapplication helps maintain effectiveness. Reapply every two hours when spending time outdoors, and more frequently after swimming, excessive sweating or towel drying, even when using a water-resistant product.

Remember that sunscreen works best when combined with other sun-protective measures such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and avoiding excessive sun exposure during the middle of the day.  

3. Seek Shade During Peak Hours

UV radiation is strongest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Whenever possible, seek shade during these hours, especially during the summer months.

4. Wear Protective Clothing

Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing provide an additional layer of defence against UV damage.

Prevention is often a combination of good habits rather than a single solution.

5. Start Early—but It’s Never Too Late

The earlier you begin protecting your skin, the better. However, even if you already have sun spots, consistent sun protection can help prevent existing spots from darkening and reduce the development of new ones.

Can Existing Sun Spots Be Treated?

Yes. Several treatment options can help reduce the appearance of sun spots and create a more even skin tone.

Depending on your skin type and the nature of the pigmentation, treatment options may include:

• Medical-grade skincare

• Chemical peels

• Laser treatments

• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

A professional skin assessment is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment approach and to distinguish sun spots from other pigmented lesions.

Healthy Skin Starts with Prevention

While modern dermatology offers excellent solutions for treating pigmentation, prevention remains the most powerful tool.

Protecting your skin from UV damage today can help maintain a more even, healthy-looking complexion for years to come.

If you are concerned about sun spots or pigmentation, a consultation with Dr. Dierickx can help determine the best prevention and treatment strategy for your skin.

Schedule a consultation