Age Spots & Hyperpigmentation
What Are Age Spots & Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of skin that become darker than the surrounding skin due to excess melanin production. Age spots, also called sun spots, are one of its most common forms: flat brown spots caused by sun exposure and aging. They’re most common on the face, hands, chest, shoulders, and upper back. While typically harmless, age spots and hyperpigmentation can contribute to an uneven skin tone, dullness, and a “weathered” appearance.
What Causes Age Spots & Hyperpigmentation?
Age spots and hyperpigmentation form gradually over time, most often due to:
- UV exposure (sun and tanning beds): Repeated UV exposure stimulates pigment production and can lead to localized clusters of melanin.
- Natural aging: Skin becomes more susceptible to uneven pigment changes as we age.
- Genetics and skin type: Some people develop sun spots and pigment more easily than others.
- Post-inflammatory pigmentation: Past acne, burns, irritation, or minor injury can leave lingering discoloration.
- Certain medications: Some can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.
See how we treat brown spots on our pigmentation and dark spot treatment page. Melasma behaves differently and needs its own approach, so it has a dedicated melasma treatment page.
Treatments for Age Spots & Hyperpigmentation
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