Sunspots are pigmented spots that can appear on the skin after prolonged sun exposure. They typically show up in areas that see the most sun, like the forehead, arms, and hands.
Sunspots aren’t harmful, but they can be a visible sign of cumulative ultraviolet (UV) damage. Think of them as small warning signs, signalling that your skin might need more UV protection.
This guide explains how sunspots happen, what you can do to help prevent them, and which skincare methods can target the look of sunspots and uneven skin tone.
Sunspots on skin, sometimes referred to as age spots or solar lentigines, are small, flat, brown, or tan spots that develop after prolonged exposure to UV radiation. Despite their name, sunspots are not caused by the sun exclusively. Indoor tanning and any form of unprotected UV exposure can trigger their appearance.
Sunspots are also:
Sunspots also differ from the raised, pigmented bumps that often develop over time. These bumps, which are typically harmless, are called seborrheic keratosis, also known as ‘seborrheic’ or ‘wisdom warts’.
It’s important to note that these are caused by different factors than age spots, and generally cannot be targeted with skincare solutions. Consult a medical professional if you have questions or concerns about any bumps on your skin.
Sunspots form when melanocytes, cells that produce pigment, are triggered to create more melanin. Over time, this pigment can cluster in one area, leading to darker patches that don’t fade like a typical tan. Once formed, sunspots can persist for years unless addressed.
Certain factors can have a major influence on the development of sunspots:
Sun damage isn’t exclusive to beach days. Walking outside, driving, or sitting by a window can all expose you to UV radiation. These seemingly small doses of sun add up over time, and can eventually lead to visible changes in skin tone.
Melanin offers some natural protection against UV rays, which means people with lighter skin tones might be more prone to sunspots. However, melanin production isn’t sufficient enough to fully prevent UV damage.
Variations in genes can impact how your skin responds to UV radiation, including the production and distribution of melanin. If susceptibility to sunspots runs in your family, you might be more likely to develop them.
As the skin ages, melanocytes can become fewer and less active, leading to a reduction in melanin production. This can cause uneven pigmentation or age spots, commonly seen in older skin.
Everyone’s skin is unique. That means sunspots show up differently from person to person. In general, sunspots can appear as:
If you notice any changes in shape or size, or if the spot becomes raised, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional, as this could indicate a different skin condition.
Sunspots are often confused with these other types of skin discolouration:
While these forms of pigmentation might look similar to sunspots, most of them (with the exception of freckles) do not primarily result from UV damage like sunspots do.
Consistent sun protection is the most effective strategy for helping to prevent sunspots. Spending less time in direct sunlight and wearing protective clothing, like hats or long-sleeved shirts, can help. But to protect skin, it’s important to wear sunscreen every day, all year round.
Incorporating a broad-spectrum sunscreen into your morning regimen is an important step to help prevent sunspots. Our UV Filters SPF 45 Serum offers:
This serum-textured SPF uses a blend of chemical (organic) UV filters, including homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and avobenzone, to absorb and disperse UV radiation as less harmful forms of energy like heat, protecting skin at multiple wavelengths. It’s also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores.
SPF 45 filters approximately 97.8% of UVB rays—only 0.2% less than SPF 50. When used as directed, it decreases the risk of sunburn and early skin aging and helps reduce the likelihood of sunspot formation.
Apply UV Filters SPF 45 Serum as the final step in your morning skincare routine, after moisturizers and before makeup. Reapply every two hours when in direct sunlight, or more frequently if sweating or swimming.
Once formed, sunspots often don’t fade on their own. But their appearance can be targeted with skincare and, in some cases, professional treatments.
By using ingredients that promote surface cell turnover, you can start to reduce the appearance of dark spots and achieve more balanced-looking skin. Our lab has formulated several products that can help.
*Clinical testing on 46 people, using the product 2x/day for 3 weeks.
O. Tip: Products containing direct acids and retinoids can increase UV sensitivity. Always pair these formulations with UV Filters SPF 45 Serum to protect the skin during use.
For more stubborn sunspots, a skincare professional might recommend more intensive treatments:
These methods can yield faster results but should always be complemented by daily SPF to help prevent recurrence.
Our lab recommends this daily regimen to help protect the skin from sun damage and support a more even-looking, radiant skin tone.
Sunspots may be a natural result of time spent in the sun, but they’re also a visible sign of UV-induced skin stress. With early prevention and a consistent regimen, including a broad-spectrum SPF, you can minimize the appearance of sunspots while supporting skin that looks and feels healthy long-term.
Our Regimen Builder suggests formulations to support your skin goals, from minimising the appearance of dark spots to improving uneven tone and enhancing daily UV protection.
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