Dark Spot
Dark spots — often called sun spots or age spots — form when years of UV exposure trigger localized overproduction of melanin. Unlike melasma, they tend to be well-defined, isolated spots rather than broad patches.
Book a Free ConsultationA relaxed, no-pressure skin assessment — there's no obligation to book treatment that day.
Understanding the cause
UV-Triggered Melanin
Repeated sun exposure over years triggers pigment-producing cells to overproduce melanin in specific spots.
Cumulative, Not Sudden
Spots typically build up gradually over years or decades of sun exposure, which is why they're most common on sun-exposed areas like the face and hands.
Well-Defined Borders
Unlike melasma's soft, patchy edges, sun-induced dark spots usually have clear, defined borders.
Facts about Dark Spot
They're Not All the Same as Melasma
Sun spots are typically isolated and well-defined; melasma is broader and patchier — they need different treatment intensity.
New Spots Keep Forming Without SPF
Treating existing spots without daily sunscreen just makes room for new ones to form.
Fading Takes Consistency
Both in-clinic treatment and at-home brightening products need sustained use — spots rarely fade with a single session or product application.
Hands Show Sun Damage Too
Sun spots on the hands are just as treatable as facial ones, but are often overlooked.
These treatments target the pigment itself while supporting more even tone overall.
Tranexamic Acid HA Skin Booster
A hydrating micro-injection that supports more even tone as a complement to spot-specific treatment.
PicoWay® Laser Skin Rejuvenation
Picosecond laser technology that targets stubborn, well-defined sun spots directly.
Top questions about dark spot
How is a dark spot different from melasma?
Dark spots are usually well-defined and isolated; melasma tends to be broader, patchier, and more hormonally driven.
Will laser treatment leave a mark?
Confirm with clinicians — modern picosecond lasers are designed to minimize this risk, but individual skin response varies.
How many sessions do I need?
Confirm typical course — depends on spot depth and number.
Can dark spots come back after treatment?
Yes, without consistent SPF — new sun exposure can trigger new spots even after existing ones are treated.
Let's treat your dark spots.
Book a consultation to find the right combination for your spots — and to prevent new ones.
A relaxed, no-pressure skin assessment — there's no obligation to book treatment that day.
Book a Free Consultation
Dark spot removal in Vancouver is most effective when treatment is matched to how the spots actually formed — years of cumulative sun exposure triggering localized pigment overproduction. At Kerrisdale Skin Medical, we use PicoWay laser to target stubborn, well-defined spots and skin-brightening boosters to support overall tone. Daily SPF is a non-negotiable part of any plan, since new sun exposure can undo results treatment has already achieved.
