Age/Brown/Sun Spots

What is it?

Sun spots (also called solar lentigines) and brown spots are flat, pigmented areas that appear on sun-exposed skin; most commonly on the face, hands, chest, and shoulders. While they’re typically harmless, they can be a visible sign of photoaging and cumulative sun damage over time.

These spots develop when UV radiation triggers the overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Unlike freckles, which can fade in winter, sun spots usually persist year-round and become more noticeable with age.

Other types of brown spots include:

  • Melasma: Hormonal pigmentation, often symmetrical on the face

  • Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark marks left after acne or other skin injuries

  • Liver spots: A common term for age-related pigmentation

As a naturopathic doctor, I view pigmentation not only as a cosmetic concern, but often as a signal of oxidative stress, hormonal imbalances, or liver detoxification issues, all of which can be supported naturally alongside targeted treatments.

What are the best holistic and aesthetic treatment options?

Hyperpigmentation requires a multi-layered approach: preventing further pigment formation, correcting internal imbalances, and gently fading existing spots through skin-safe methods.

Holistic Therapies

  • Liver & Detox Support: The liver plays a central role in hormone metabolism and detoxification; key processes that can influence pigment formation. Herbal support, dietary changes, and antioxidant therapy are often included.

  • Hormonal Balancing: Especially important for melasma, we assess for estrogen dominance, thyroid function, and adrenal health to calm pigment-triggering hormonal shifts.

  • Antioxidant Nutrition: Nutrients like vitamin C, E, glutathione, and polyphenols help protect against further sun damage and oxidative stress.

  • Sun-Safe Skincare Habits: Education on mineral-based sunscreens and UV avoidance strategies to prevent future pigment.

Aesthetic Treatments

  • Laser Treatments (e.g., IPL or non-ablative fractional lasers): Highly effective at breaking up excess pigment, evening tone, and stimulating new, healthy skin.

  • Microneedling with Brightening Serums: Enhances product absorption and promotes natural skin renewal to fade stubborn discoloration.

  • Topical Botanicals & Medical-Grade Brighteners: Including arbutin, licorice root, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide. They are formulated to safely lighten pigmentation without bleaching.

  • Chemical Peels (gentle, customized): Naturally derived acids like lactic or mandelic acid can speed up cell turnover and lighten pigment with minimal downtime.

  • LED Light Therapy (Red & Near-Infrared): Reduces inflammation and supports cellular repair, especially after more intensive treatments.

Each pigmentation case is different, some rooted in sun damage, others in hormones or inflammation, therefore your treatment plan will be personalized to safely and gradually restore your skin’s clarity and brightness.