Age spots?

My wife is 47 year old. for the last few years, she started to get quite a few brown spots/dots showing up on her upper cheeks -just below the outside corners of her eyes (on both sides). What causes these spots and is there anything she can do to treat and remove the spots? Thanks in advance.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Tuan:

They are freckles.  She can treat them with a lightening cream containing hydroquinone 2%.  If that doesn't work over a period of 2-3 months, she can see a dermatologist for stronger creams, or perhaps chemical peels.  And don't forget sunblock!

Best.

Dr. Rockoff