Brown Spots, or Lentigo, are small pigmented spots that occur on the skin and have a clearly defined edge, surrounded by skin that appears normal.  The most common, benign, sun induced lesion is a solar lentigo (actinic lentigo, senile lentigo, sun spot, liver spot). They occur in sun exposed areas appearing on the face, arms, tops of hands, and chest. The spots are typically smaller than 4mm in diameter and can be flat or depressed and may be split by fine wrinkles. The lesions are usually brown in color and may range from yellow-tan to black. Older lesions are often darker brown or black and can slowly increase in number and in size. It is most commonly found in individuals over 30 years old. Increased exposure to sun and artificial sources of UV light can cause these to appear at an even younger age.

Telangiectasias (commonly known as “broken capillaries” or “spider veins”) are dilated or broken blood vessels located near the surface of the skin. They often appear as fine pink or red lines, which temporarily whiten when pressed. “Matted” telangiectasias are clusters of these small dilated blood vessels that form a pink or red patch on the skin. Telangectasias can develop anywhere on the body but are commonly seen on the face around the nose, cheeks, chin, and chest. They can be caused by environmental damage such as sun or cold exposure and may increase as we age. Trauma to the skin such a contusions and surgical procedures are also a factor as well as radiation therapy.