Sun Spots and Uneven Tone
Hyperpigmentation is darkening of the skin caused by extra melanin, seen as sun spots, melasma and dark marks after acne. At Desert Bloom in Scottsdale, Dr. Natalya Borakowski, NMD treats sun spots with the Quanta EVO Alexandrite photofacial from $275 for the face, and treats melasma with a gentler plan, because heat can make melasma darker.
What are the signs of sun spots and uneven tone?
- Flat brown spots on the face, chest, arms and backs of the hands
- Brown patches on the cheeks, forehead or upper lip, often on both sides (melasma)
- Dark marks where acne or a scratch has healed
- A blotchy, uneven tone that makeup has to cover
What causes sun spots and uneven tone?
- Sun exposure: Arizona has a high UV index for much of the year
- Hormones from pregnancy, birth control or perimenopause, which trigger melasma
- Inflammation from acne, scratches or harsh treatments (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
- Heat, which can darken melasma even without direct sun
- Darker skin tones, which make extra pigment more readily after inflammation
How we assess it
How does Desert Bloom assess sun spots and uneven tone?
Dr. Natalya Borakowski, NMD identifies the type of pigment and how deep it sits before treating it. Sun spots usually respond well to laser. Melasma is treated more gently, because strong heat-based treatments can make it darker. Any spot that is new, changing, bleeding or irregular in shape is medically checked before cosmetic treatment.
Book a consultation or call (480) 567-8180
At home
How can you care for sun spots and uneven tone at home?
Wear broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day and reapply every 2 hours outdoors. Add a wide-brimmed hat and shade, because Arizona UV is strong all year. Use brightening products with vitamin C or niacinamide as advised at your visit. Do not pick at spots or scabs.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Will sun spots come back after treatment?
Treated sun spots fade, but new spots can form with more sun exposure. Daily SPF 30 and occasional maintenance treatments keep results for most people.
Can melasma be treated?
Melasma can be lightened and controlled, but it often returns with sun, heat or hormone changes. Desert Bloom uses gentle treatments such as PRX-T33 and brightening skincare rather than strong heat. Strict daily sun protection is the most important part of any melasma plan.
How many photofacials will I need?
Most people need 2 to 4 Alexandrite photofacial sessions for sun spots. A single isolated spot may need fewer. Dr. Borakowski sets the number and spacing at your consultation.
Is a photofacial safe for darker skin?
The Alexandrite photofacial works best on Fitzpatrick skin types I to III. Darker skin tones have a higher risk of burns and new dark marks with this laser, so Dr. Borakowski recommends gentler options such as PRX-T33 or the Desert Reset treatments instead.
Are dark spots ever a sign of something serious?
Most brown spots are harmless, but a spot that is new, changing, bleeding or has an irregular border should be medically checked before any cosmetic treatment. Dr. Borakowski will tell you at your consultation if a spot looks unusual.
Not sure where to start? Book a consultation and we will look at your skin, explain your options and help you choose care that fits you.