Noticing flat brown spots appearing on your face, hands, neck or shoulders? You are among the millions of Americans who develop solar lentigines, benign spots that respond exceptionally well to professional treatment. Dr. Kristine Zitelli specializes in advanced therapies that fade, diminish, and even eliminate these common skin concerns, helping patients throughout Cincinnati achieve clearer, more evenly toned skin.
Not only provides excellent care but truly cares.
Advanced Expertise in Pigmentation Treatment
Dr. Zitelli brings specialized knowledge in treating all forms of hyperpigmentation, including stubborn sun and brown spots. Her approach combines cutting-edge treatment technologies with a thorough understanding of skin biology to effectively target excess pigment while preserving your skin’s natural health and radiance. By accurately identifying the type and depth of your pigmentation concerns, Dr. Zitelli creates customized treatment plans that deliver consistent, natural-looking results for patients of all skin types and tones.
What Are Sun Spots and Brown Spots?
Sun spots (solar lentigines) and brown spots are flat, pigmented areas that develop on skin frequently exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These common skin concerns affect approximately 90% of people over age 50 and increasingly appear in younger individuals with significant sun exposure. Unlike freckles, which often fade without sun exposure, these spots remain visible year-round and may gradually increase in size or number over time.
Sun spots develop when UV exposure triggers overproduction of melanin–your skin’s protective pigment–creating concentrated areas of darker color. While these spots are benign, their presence indicates significant sun damage has occurred in your skin, making proper evaluation and sun protection essential components of treatment.
Common Concerns About Sun and Brown Spots
Aesthetic Appearance
Spots that create an uneven, aged, or mottled complexion affecting confidence
Multiple Treatment Options
Confusion about which treatment approach will work best for your specific spots
Prevention Strategies
Uncertainty about how to avoid developing additional spots after treatment
Skin Cancer Concerns
Worry about distinguishing between harmless spots and potentially dangerous lesions
Treatment Effectiveness
Questions about how completely spots can be removed and results maintained
Product Solutions
Interest in professional-grade products that can enhance in-office treatment results


Dr. Zitelli’s Customized Treatment Approach
Dr. Zitelli begins each treatment journey with a comprehensive evaluation of your skin’s condition, pigmentation patterns, and specific concerns. Understanding that sun and brown spots vary widely in intensity, depth, and distribution, she creates a personalized approach that may include:
- Targeted Laser Therapy: Precision technology that selectively targets excess pigment while sparing surrounding tissue
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Advanced light-based treatment that addresses both pigmentation and vascular concerns
- Chemical Peels: Professional-grade solutions that exfoliate damaged outer layers revealing fresher skin
- Topical Prescriptions: Medical-grade formulations with ingredients like hydroquinone, retinoids, or azelaic acid
- Cryotherapy: Controlled freezing technique that effectively removes individual spots with minimal downtime
- Combination Approaches: Multi-faceted treatment plans that address various aspects of pigmentation issues
“Successful pigmentation treatment isn’t just about removing existing spots,” explains Dr. Zitelli. “Our comprehensive approach includes addressing the underlying cause or sun damage, recommending preventive strategies, and maintaining results long-term through customized skincare regimens.”
Is Professional Sun Spot Treatment Right for You?
You may benefit from professional sun spot treatment if you:
- Have noticeable brown spots that haven’t responded to over-the-counter treatments
- Feel self-conscious about uneven skin tone or pigmentation on visible areas
- Want to address both cosmetic concerns and the underlying skin health issues
- Have noticed your spots changing in size, color, or texture over time
- Desire a more youthful, evenly-toned complexion without significant downtime
- Wish to prevent further development of pigmentation issues with expert guidance
During your consultation, Dr. Zitelli will examine your skin, discuss your concerns, and recommend the most effective treatment options for your specific pigmentation issues.
What to Expect During Dark Spots Treatment
While specific procedures vary based on your customized treatment plan, most sun spot treatments follow a similar process:
Preparation
Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed and prepared for the selected treatment
Protection
Appropriate eye protection and comfort measures will be implemented
Treatment Application
Dr. Zitelli will precisely apply the chosen therapy to target affected areas
Post-Treatment Care
Specific aftercare instructions will be provided to maximize results
Treatment Monitoring
Your progress will be assessed to determine if adjustments are needed
Maintenance Planning
A long-term strategy will be developed to maintain your clearer complexion
What to Expect After Your Treatment
Following your sun spot treatment:
- Treated areas may appear slightly red or darkened for several days after certain procedures
- A mild flaking or peeling process may occur as pigmented cells are naturally eliminated
- Most patients can resume normal activities immediately or within 24 hours of treatment
- Visible improvement typically becomes apparent within 1-3 weeks after initial treatment
- Optimal results often require a series of 2-4 treatments spaced approximately 3-4 weeks apart
- A consistent sun protection regimen is essential to maintain results and prevent new spots

Frequently Asked Questions About Sun Spots and Brown Spots Treatment
While true sun spots are benign, they indicate significant sun damage has occurred. Dr. Zitelli carefully examines all pigmented lesions to distinguish harmless spots from potentially concerning ones.
Most patients require 2-4 treatments for optimal results, depending on the number, darkness, and depth of their sun spots. Your personalized treatment plan will outline the recommended approach.
Cosmetic treatment of benign sun spots is typically not covered by insurance. However, evaluation of suspicious lesions is usually covered as part of skin cancer screening.
Without proper sun protection, new spots can develop over time. Dr. Zitelli provides comprehensive prevention strategies to maintain your clearer complexion long-term.
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding peak sun hours are essential prevention strategies Dr. Zitelli recommends.

Why Choose Dr. Zitelli for Dark Spot Treatment in Cincinnati
Dr. Kristine Zitelli brings exceptional expertise in diagnosing and treating all forms of skin pigmentation issues. As a board-certified dermatologist with specialized training in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, she offers comprehensive care that addresses not just the appearance of sun spots but also the underlying skin health concerns they represent. Her thorough approach ensures each patient receives the most effective treatment for their specific pigmentation issues while screening for any potentially concerning lesions that might require medical attention.
Patients throughout Cincinnati and nearby Montgomery trust Dr. Zitelli’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to achieving natural-looking, long-lasting results. Her extensive knowledge of cutting-edge technologies and treatment protocols allows her to offer the most advanced options for addressing even the most stubborn sun and brown spots.
Reveal Your Skin’s Natural Radiance
Don’t let sun spots diminish your skin’s natural beauty. Contact Queen City Dermatology today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Zitelli and discover how our customized sun spot treatment plans can help you achieve a clearer, more evenly toned complexion that radiates health and vitality.