What are sunspots? Sunspots, medically called solar lentigines, are flat, well-defined tan to dark brown marks that develop on skin exposed to the sun over many years. They are most common on the face, hands, shoulders and chest, and tend to become more noticeable with age. They are different from freckles, which often fade in winter, and from melasma, which is usually patchy and influenced by hormones.

Assessment comes first. At DayBeau Clinic Gangnam, the doctor examines your skin before any treatment. Flat brown marks are not always harmless sunspots, so anything that is changing in size or colour, has irregular borders, bleeds or looks unusual should be checked properly. Some marks may need further evaluation rather than cosmetic treatment.

Laser and light-based options. Sunspots are usually treated with devices that target melanin, the pigment in the spots. Depending on your skin type and the depth of the pigment, the doctor may recommend a pigment-targeting laser such as pico or Q-switched, or a light-based device such as IPL. Chemical peels and brightening topical products can support the result. The doctor chooses the approach at consultation.

How many sessions? Some well-defined spots respond after a single session, while broader sun damage or deeper pigment often needs several sessions spaced weeks apart. The number depends on your skin, the type of spot and the method used. A doctor will outline a typical plan rather than promise a specific outcome.

Recovery. After treatment the skin may look pink, and treated spots commonly darken, form tiny crusts or flake for a few days to around a week before fading. Downtime is usually modest, but sensitivity varies. Makeup can often be used once the skin has settled, as advised by your doctor.

Aftercare and sun protection. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and reapply outdoors, wear a hat, and avoid direct sun in the weeks after treatment. Do not pick at crusts or scrub the area, and keep skin moisturised with gentle products. Without sun protection, sunspots can return and new ones can form.

Who should wait or avoid treatment? Treatment is usually postponed in pregnancy or breastfeeding, with active skin infection or inflammation in the area, or on recently tanned skin. Tell your doctor about photosensitising medications, a history of keloid scarring or pigment problems, and any skin cancer history so they can advise safely.