Explore safe, professional solutions that can help your skin look its best
Don't let age spots affect your confidence
Do you notice small, flat, dark marks on your hands, face, shoulders, or other sun-exposed areas? These could be solar lentigines (also known as age spots, liver spots, or sun spots). They often develop with age or after years of sun exposure. While they are harmless, they can make your skin look uneven or aged. Many people notice them first on the back of their hands, forehead, or cheeks, and wonder if they indicate a serious health problem. The good news is that solar lentigines are not cancerous, and they rarely cause any health concerns. However, it’s always important to have a medical professional assess any new or changing spots.
At Queensland Skin and Laser in Brisbane, Dr. Mark Chernoff can examine your skin to confirm these spots are safe, as well as, provide effective, tailored treatment options to restore your skin’s even tone. From non-invasive topical creams to advanced laser and IPL therapy, we can help you achieve smoother, brighter skin.
What Are Solar Lentigines?
Solar lentigines, also known as age spots, sun spots, or liver spots, appear as flat brown, grey, or black patches on sun-exposed areas, including your face, hands, shoulders, and upper back.
They can appear alone or in clusters and typically develop in middle-aged and older adults. While solar lentigines are harmless, understanding them can help you decide if treatment is right for you. Many people seek treatment to refresh their skin and restore an even tone, enhancing confidence in their appearance.
What Causes Solar Lentigines?
Age spots form due to excess melanin production, often accelerated by sun exposure and UV light. Genetics may also play a role, meaning some people are more prone if family members have them. Other risk factors include:
- Age over 40 years
- Fair skin type
- Frequent sun exposure
Regular skin checks at Queensland Skin & Laser help detect issues early. Prioritise your skin health with our Brisbane clinic.
At Queensland Skin and Laser, we offer bulk-billed skin checks to support early detection and proactive care for your skin.
How are AGE SPOTS Diagnosed at
Queensland Skin and Laser?
If You See Sun Spots, We Can Help
Our Brisbane medical team usually diagnoses solar lentigines through a visual assessment, examining their colour, size, shape, and texture.
We want to ensure your safety before proceeding with any costemic treatment. If a spot looks unusual during your examination, we may recommend a biopsy to confirm it is safe and non-cancerous. This step guarantees your health before discussing any treatment options.
Benefits of Age Spot Treatment
Professional treatment of solar lentigines can brighten your skin, smooth texture, and even out pigmentation. Many patient notice benefits such as:
- Brighter, more even skin tone: reduce the appearance of sun spots and liver spots.
- Rejuvenated skin texture: smoother, healthier-looking skin.
- Enhanced confidence: feel more comfortable showing your hands, face, and shoulders.
These benefits can often be achieved through a combination of professional treatments.
If any of these factors appeal to you, we suggest booking a free skin check to have your spots assessed for treatment.
Are you a good candidate for sun spot treatment?
If you notice small, flat brown or sun-exposed spots on your hands, face, or shoulders, you may be a candidate for treatment. Age spots are common, but if they bother you or affect your confidence, there are safe options to restore an even skin tone. Ideal candidates often:
- Have visible sun spots or liver spots
- Want a smoother, more even complexion
- Prefer non-invasive, professional treatments
- Seek natural-looking results with minimal downtime
Not sure if treatment is right for you? Book a consultation with our Brisbane team.
Treatment options for
Solar Lentigines
Target Dark Spots Effectively with Expert Care
At Queensland Skin and Laser, we offer tailored treatments that reduce the appearance of age spots and restore your skin’s natural, even tone. Our clinicians help you choose the most effective option for your skin type and lifestyle. Our treatment options include:
- IPL: Breaks up pigment to reveal brighter, clearer skin.
- Laser Resurfacing: Targets stubborn dark spots while leaving surrounding skin smooth and protected.
- Chemical Peels: Gently removes the outer layer to reveal fresh, rejuvenated skin beneath.
- Cryotherapy: Quickly freezes age spots for visible improvement with precise, targeted treatment.
- Topical Creams: Prescription-strength formulas gradually fade spots for a more even complexion.
- Skincare: Cosmeceuticals for all pigmentation and skin concerns.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Solar Lentigines Treatment Process
At Queensland Skin And Laser
What to Expect During Your Treatment
Consultation
Your journey begins with a personalised where we assess your skin and discuss treatment options suited to your goals.
Skin Preparation
Before treatment, you may be advised to avoid sun exposure and certain skincare products. These steps prepare your skin and optimise results.
Treatment
Procedures may involve IPL, laser resurfacing, or chemical peels. Sometimes, a combination approach delivers the best cosmetic outcome.
Aftercare & Results
Post-treatment, your skin may be red or slightly tender for a few days. We provide clear instructions for cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection to support healing and maintain results.
Topical creams and cosmeceutical skincare may take several week to months before results become visible. On the other hand, IPL, laser, or chemical peels often show visible improvement after a few sessions.
Take the first step toward clearer, younger-looking skin
Preventing Solar Lentigines
Preventing age spots or solar lentigines is key for long-term skin health. In addition to treatment, protect your skin by:
- Limiting sun exposure is the most effective prevention
- Applying SPF 30+ of 50+ sunscreen daily
- Wearing protective clothing and hats
- Avoiding tanning beds and peak sun hours
Possible Risks or Side Effects
Sun spot treatments are generally safe, but can have minor safe effects. Understanding them help you prepare:
- Redness and swelling
- Temporary darkening or lightening of skin
- Mild discomfort or tenderness
Our experienced medical team will discuss all potential risks with you before treatment and guide you through the safest option for your skin. Book a consultation to learn more.
Cost of Cosmetic Sun Spot Treatments
Costs vary depending on treatment type and number of sessions. We provide personalised quotes for age spot treatment after assessment. However, as a guide:
- IPL (small patch) – from $150
- Laser Resurfacing (small patch) – from $150
- Chemical Peels – from $149
Why Choose Queensland Skin and Laser
for Sun Spot Treatment
At Queensland Skin and Laser, we combine medical expertise with personalised care. Your treatment is safe, effective, and designed to maintain natural skin beauty.
Expert-Led
Care
Led by Dr. Mark Chernoff, a seasoned physician with expertise in skin cancer detection, general and cosmetic dermatology, and advanced laser therapies, the clinic ensures high standards of care across all treatments.
Advanced
Technology
Queensland Skin and Laser integrates state-of-the-art laser systems, HIFU, RF needling, and photodynamic therapy, offering the latest in skin rejuvenation, tightening, and sun damage treatment.
Patient-Centred,
Boutique Experience
Patients experience a personalised, boutique environment where their concerns are met with unmatched professionalism and dedicated care.
Complimentary Cosmetic
Consultations
Clients receive a free consultation with the clinic’s cosmetic nurses, making expert skin advice accessible without upfront costs.
Flexible Payment
Plans
Offering weekly payment options through Zip Pay, the clinic ensures financial flexibility for both cosmetic and medical treatments.
Trusted Reputation
and Certifications
As a Fellow of the RACGP, an accreditation assessor, and an experienced dermatology professional, Dr. Chernoff and his team are recognised for their commitment to high standards, safety, and patient well-being.
Meet Dr Mark Chernoff
BSC (EXHP), MBBS (MELB), FRACGP, MFIN, CFTP
Dr Mark Chernoff earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Health Physiology, followed by a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Melbourne in 2010. He began his postgraduate career at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne, specialising in general and plastic surgery.
Dr Chernoff serves as a Visiting Medical Officer in Emergency Medicine and works as a general practitioner in rural NSW. With extensive experience in skin cancer surgery, medical laser treatments and cosmetic medicine, he also contributes to medical education by supervising registrars for the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
To book an appointment, click the button above, call 07 3544 6425, or email admin@qldskinandlaser.com.
Find us here:
- Level 2 – 445 Upper Edward St
Spring Hill QLD 4000
Frequently Asked Questions About
Age Spots Treatment
Professional Treatments That Deliver Noticeable Results
What is the difference between age spots and freckles?
Freckles are typically smaller, lighter, and often appear in childhood. Age spots develop later and may darken with sun exposure. Book a complimentary consultation at Queensland Skin and Laser to have your spots accurately diagnosed.
Are age spots (a.k.a. solar lentigines) dangerous or cancerous?
Solar lentigines (a.k.a. age spots, liver spots, or sun spots) are harmless. However, any spot that changes colour, size, or shape should be evaluated by a medical professional.
How long does it take to see results from sun spot treatment?
Topical creams for age spots may take several weeks to months before you notice visible improvement. Procedures like IPL, laser, or chemical peels often show visible improvement after a few sessions.
Can age spots return after treatment?
Yes, new age spots may appear with continued UV exposure. Consistent sun protection reduces recurrence, whilst professional treatments can be scheduled monthly, 6-monthly, or annually.
Are there at-home treatments for age spots (a.k.a. liver spots)?
Yes, there are at-home treatments for solar lentigines. Exfoliation, Vitamin C serums, and certain skin brightening creams may help fade age spots gradually. However, professional treatments remain the most effective option. Book a complimentary consultation to discuss the most appropriate option for your unique skin.
Can age spots be removed completely?
Many treatments can significantly lighten or remove age spots, especially when combined with sun protection and aftercare. Learn more about skin spots and pigmentation here.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Have any questions about solar lentigines, age spots, liver spots, or sun spots? Complete the form below and we will get back to you shortly.
