What sun spots are
Sun spots — sometimes called solar lentigines or sun-induced brown spots — are flat, clearly outlined brown marks that appear on areas that have seen the most sun: the cheeks, temples, forehead, the backs of the hands and the forearms. Unlike freckles, they do not fade in winter, and they tend to grow in number and size over the years. They often start to appear from the 30s onwards in people who have spent time outdoors, played sport or lived in sunny climates.
Sun spots are usually harmless, but any spot that changes shape, colour or size, bleeds or looks different from the others should be checked by a doctor. Part of our consultation is making sure that what looks like a sun spot really is one.
Why they happen — and which layer is involved
In the 8-layer Skin Architecture model we use, sun spots begin in the epidermis . Repeated UV exposure prompts pigment cells in a localised area to produce more melanin, and over time that area keeps a concentrated store of pigment. In some people, especially where there has been long-term sun damage, the change is accompanied by thinner, less resilient skin and some loss of collagen in the upper dermis . Because UV also breaks down collagen, sun spots are often one part of a wider picture of photo-ageing.
How Obliv approaches sun spots
- Diagnosis first. A director examines your skin from the first visit. Mark-Vu imaging analyses pigment, redness and texture so the spots that need treatment — and anything that should not be treated with a laser — are clearly identified.
- Barrier preparation. Before the main treatment we reinforce the barrier with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, and protect it afterwards. Calm, well-supported skin is less likely to react with new pigment.
- Targeted laser. PICOALEX , a picosecond pico laser, can target concentrated pigment with very short pulses and little heat. Where sun spots sit on a background of uneven tone, a course of pico toning or Nobleen laser toning may be added. If there is redness as well, BRIGHTONE may be suggested.
- Looking at the bigger picture. If photo-ageing has also affected texture or firmness, your doctor may discuss supporting the upper dermis with skin boosters or Rejuran as part of a longer plan.
What to expect
Clearly defined sun spots often respond well, and some people see a noticeable change after one session, while others need more than one. After pico treatment, spots commonly darken slightly and form fine crusts for several days before flaking away to reveal lighter skin. Toning sessions usually leave only mild redness that settles within hours. Because skin renews roughly every 28 days, follow-up sessions are spaced to suit that cycle. Results vary from person to person, and your doctor will talk you through what is realistic for your spots.
Caring for your skin between visits
- Wear broad-spectrum SPF50+ every day — including on cloudy days and on the hands — and reapply outdoors.
- Let crusts fall away on their own; picking can leave a mark.
- Keep cleansing gentle and skip exfoliating acids and scrubs while the skin heals.
- Use the pH-5.5-matched home care we prescribe to keep the barrier calm.
Visiting from abroad
Sun spot treatment usually fits well into a city break. Book early in your stay so crusts have time to clear, and bring a hat and sunscreen for sightseeing afterwards. Send clear daylight photos of the spots and your travel dates on WhatsApp; we will suggest a plan, and for cost, ask us on WhatsApp for a personalised quote.
At a glance
- Skin layer: Epidermis, with upper-dermis sun damage in some cases
- Main tools: PICOALEX, pico toning, Nobleen toning
- Approach: Confirm diagnosis, barrier first, then target pigment
- Sessions: One or more, decided at consultation
- Downtime: Fine crusts for several days after pico
- Must-have: Daily SPF50+
Questions about sun spots
Are sun spots the same as freckles?
Not quite. Freckles are usually smaller, appear earlier in life and fade in winter, while sun spots are larger, more defined and tend to stay year-round. Both sit in the epidermis, but the plan can differ, so a doctor examines them first.
Can sun spots come back?
A treated spot can lighten well, but continued UV exposure can cause new spots or darken existing ones. Daily SPF50+ is the most important way to protect your result.
Can you treat sun spots on my hands?
Sun spots on the hands are common and can often be included. Your doctor will examine them at consultation and explain whether they are suitable for laser and what aftercare involves.
What if a spot looks unusual?
Any spot that is changing, irregular or different from the others is assessed by a doctor and is not simply treated with a laser. Where needed, we will recommend proper medical evaluation.
Talk to us about sun spots
Message us on WhatsApp in English. Obliv Clinic Seoul Origin, Pagoda Tower, 93 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu — about 5 minutes on foot from Jonggak and Euljiro 1-ga stations, close to Myeongdong.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Suitability, number of sessions and results vary from person to person and are decided with a doctor at consultation.
