04
Dec
Where Did These Brown Spots Come From?
For several reasons, Your skin can develop hyperpigmented areas, appearing as brown spots or blotches. While these brown spots may or may not be a health concern, you may not like how they break up your skin’s even appearance. Brown spots can show your age, as well.
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, FASDS, Dr. Aria Vazirnia MD, MAS, FAAD, Kristin Rupert PA-C, Mary Hanna MSN, NP-BC, Sherri Anderson PA-C, Riley McCarthy RN, Lani Keene LE, and the skin care experts at Apex Dermatology provide treatment to new and existing patients from our location in Westlake Village, California.
We know all about brown spots. Regardless of their origin, talk to our team about the right treatments and therapies to erase your brown spots and restore your clear, even skin.
Causes of brown spots on your skin
Your body naturally produces melanin, which causes skin pigmentation. People with different skin colors have unique naturally-occurring melanin levels. When your skin starts producing extra melanin, there’s a potential appearance issue. There are also genetic textural growths that can appear as brown spots and are stubborn. When this happens, brown spots or blotches appear as the excess melanin becomes visible.
There are various reasons why your skin might produce excess melanin in an exposed or triggered area. Here are some of the most common causes of brown spots.
Age spots
Previously known as liver spots, age spots typically appear on your hands and face. And, yes, these types of brown spots are associated with getting older because they are genetically motivated and appear over time.
There are also age spots that occur due to sun exposure. These are called lentigines and are a form of “perma-freckle”. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation triggers your skin to produce excess melanin, developing age spots. These spots can sometimes have a precancerous risk and can worsen with continued sun exposure.
Freckles
Freckles tend to be brown or orange and can appear anywhere on your body. They come and go depending on sun exposure levels. The form because some people make a pigment type called pheomelanin which tends to go with pale skin and reddish hair qualities of scalp or beard. Your freckles may have a genetic component. Sun exposure also causes freckles and can make existing freckles become larger, more numerous, or darker in color. Sun protection reduces the formation of freckles and fading creams, lotions or treatments can reduce them.
Melasma
Melasma creates a large area of brown or gray blotches. The appearance of melasma is often described as a mask covering your face, including your forehead, cheeks, and nose.
This skin condition is often a lifelong battle requiring management and control. It can be associated with hormone swings occurring during pregnancy. Melasma can also be triggered by sun exposure, heat exposure, inflammation, or a hormone imbalance. It worsens with continued ultraviolet, heat, or aggressive inflammatory events.
Once you understand the type of skin discoloration affecting you, you can seek effective treatment for your brown spots.
Getting rid of brown spots and restoring your skin
If you’re dealing with any of these types of brown spots or skin discoloration and want to restore your skin’s even appearance, contact the Apex Dermatology team. We offer multiple types of treatments and therapies that break up areas of hyperpigmentation.
Depending on the size, location, and nature of your brown spots, as well as your unique skin care needs, your provider at Apex Dermatology may recommend treatments such as:
- SkinCeuticals Pigment Balancing Peel to address freckles and age spots
- Sciton BBL to reduce brown spots and age spots.
- Lumenis PiQo4 spot treatment (“PiQo-spot”) to reduce flat seborrheic keratoses or sun spots.
- Lumenis PiQo4 pigment toning (“PiQo-toning”) to even out pigment and gently build collagen with no pain and no down-time. Suitable for all skin colors.
- Clear + Brilliant® laser treatment to break up and erase hyperpigmentation. This can be nicely combined with Piqo-Spot for even more improvement.
- “PiQo-melasma” with gentle wafting energy to gradually and safely decrease stubborn unwanted pigment.
- Fraxel® Dual laser skin resurfacing for brown spots, sun damage, excess pigment, wrinkle reduction, collagen building, and pigment balancing, including melasma. Combine with BBL pigment or BLL vascular to boost spot reduction or blood vessel reduction.
- Laser Genesis gentle pigment balancing and active acne reduction. This gentle treatment even gradually reduces acne-related brown spots in pigmented skin and recent light acne scarring when done in a series of treatments combined with medical acne treatment.
With the right treatments and skin care, your brown spots can fade away, returning your skin to clear, smooth perfection.
Contact us today to learn more about your options for reducing or removing brown spots at Apex Dermatology. Schedule your initial consultation appointment online, or call now to book your session.
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Zoë Smith, MD
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Zoë Smith, MD
Dr. Zoë Smith, MD, is a compassionate and skilled dermatologist serving the Westlake Village, CA community at Apex Dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her dermatology residency at UCLA. Dr. Zoë has authored numerous articles on hair loss, skin cancer, and autoimmune conditions, showcasing her expertise. Her research includes work at the NIH and an externship at Harvard Medical School. A leader in her field, she is recognized for her warm approach to patient care and her commitment to volunteering with children who have skin conditions.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.