Brown spots are very common and they are often of a sign of aging. There are different types of brown spots.
Solar Lentigo is a flat round or oval shaped uniform-coloured brown spot often seen in sun exposed area of the skin. They are often multiple, some larger and some smaller. They are caused by chronic sun exposure, and therefore, the cheeks and back of the hands are the most common areas to have these. They do not usually cause any itchy or pain or bleeding. If these symptoms occur, it is best to consult a doctor. It can be treated with various methods including lightening creams, superficial chemical peels, IPL (intense pulsed light) or Lasers. At MW Skin Concept, we can help you decide which treatment is suitable for you.
Seborrheic keratosis is a stucked on warty growth of skin that can occur anywhere on the face or body. Usually there are multiple of them. They can have varying degree of pigmentation, some lighter, some white (Stucco Keratosis) and some very dark. Because of the pigmentation, some people mistake them for melanoma. They have lots of characteristics that the Dermatologist can usually differentiate from a melanoma. Therefore, if unsure, they should be checked by a dermatologist. Sun is a risk factor for this condition.
Common variants of seborrheic keratosis:
Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra– this is condition that affects even younger people of darker skin. The lesions are usually very small and are distributed on the temples and cheeks. They are best treated with electrodessication (heat created by electric current).
Watch video of Electrodessication Treatment for DPN
Flat seborrheic keratosis– this is a small brown flat oval or round spot on the skin, usually seen on back of hands and legs. These can be mistaken for solar lentigo. They do not need to be treated, however, cryotherapy (cold liquid nitrogen spray) can be used.
Stucco Keratosis– this is a white scaly usually fairly flat oval or round spot on the legs. This is a variation of flat seborrheic keratosis. They do not need to be treated, however, cryotherapy can be used.
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