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Brown Spot Treatment at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Brown spots are a common skin concern that can develop over time due to sun exposure, aging, and hormonal changes. At Dermatology Associates of Ithaca, we offer medical and cosmetic treatment options to safely reduce the appearance of brown spots and improve overall skin tone. Treatments are personalized based on skin type, spot characteristics, and individual goals.
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What Causes Brown Spots?

Brown spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, occur when excess melanin is produced in certain areas of the skin. Common causes include:
  • Cumulative sun exposure
  • Hormonal changes (such as melasma)
  • Aging
  • Inflammation from acne or skin injury
Brown spots can appear on the face, hands, chest, shoulders, and other sun-exposed areas.
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How Brown Spots Are Treated

Treatment depends on the type, depth, and cause of pigmentation. Your provider will evaluate your skin and may recommend one or more of the following:
  • Laser or light-based treatments to target pigment
  • Medical-grade topical treatments to lighten discoloration
  • Combination approaches for more stubborn pigmentation
Multiple treatments may be recommended for best results.

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Treatment Details

A consultation is required prior to treatment
Treatment time varies depending on the modality used
Some treatments have little to no downtime, while others may involve short recovery periods
Results often improve gradually over time
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What Results Can I Expect?

Most patients experience:
  • Lightening of brown spots
  • More even skin tone
  • Improved overall skin clarity
Results vary depending on skin type, pigment depth, and sun exposure habits. Ongoing sun protection is essential to maintain results.
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Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Risks & Considerations

Potential side effects depend on the treatment used and may include:
  • Temporary redness or swelling
  • Mild peeling or flaking
  • Temporary lightening or darkening of the skin
Your provider will review all risks, expected outcomes, and aftercare instructions during your consultation.

Before & After Care

Before treatment:
  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning
  • Follow any skincare preparation instructions provided
After treatment:
  • Daily sun protection is critical
  • Follow all post-treatment skincare recommendations
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Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for brown spot treatment if:
You are bothered by sun spots or uneven pigmentation
You are not actively tanning
You are able to commit to sun protection before and after treatment
Certain treatments may not be appropriate for patients who are pregnant or have specific skin conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are brown spots permanent?

Some pigmentation may fade on its own, but many brown spots require treatment to significantly improve.

How many treatments are needed?

Many patients require a series of treatments for optimal results.

Can brown spots come back?

Yes. Continued sun exposure can cause new pigmentation. Maintenance treatments and sun protection help reduce recurrence.

Is treatment painful?

Discomfort is typically mild and depends on the treatment method used.

Interested in Treating Brown Spots?

Our dermatology team will help determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for your skin.
Call: (607) 257-1107
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What Our Patients Say

4.9
stars rating on Google with 950+ reviews
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Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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