Unwanted skin spots are common growths like moles, freckles, age spots (lentigines), skin tags, or hyperpigmentation (melasma) caused by sun, hormones, aging, or friction, usually harmless but needing dermatologist checks if changing; treatments range from creams (hydroquinone, retinoids) to procedures (laser, chemical peels, freezing) to fade or remove them, with options depending on the spot type and desired outcome. 

Common Types of Skin Spots

• Age Spots/Sun Spots/Lentigines: Flat, brown spots from sun exposure, common on hands, face, arms.

• Skin Tags: Soft, harmless growths on stalks, often in neck, underarms, eyelids.

• Freckles (Ephelides): Small, flat spots that darken with sun exposure.

• Melasma: Brown patches, often hormonal (pregnancy, birth control), appearing on sun-exposed areas.

• Moles (Nevi): Varying shapes, colors, and textures; see a doctor if they change.

• Warts: Harmless growths, common in kids/young adults, often viral. 

Causes

• Sun Exposure (UV Radiation): Stimulates melanin, causing sun/age spots.

• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, birth control, hormone therapy (melasma).

• Friction: Causes skin tags (neck, underarms).

• Inflammation/Injury: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (acne, cuts).

• Genetics: Predisposition to freckles/moles.  

Treatment Options (Consult a Professional)

• Topical Creams: Hydroquinone, retinoids, mild steroids.

• Procedures: Laser therapy, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, cryotherapy (freezing).

• Removal: For skin tags/moles, a doctor can safely remove them.