Many different types of pigmented spots or brown spots can be found on the skin. It is important to distinguish between benign and malignant pigment spots, and also between a mole (naevus) and other types of skin pigmentation like freckles or age spots. A correct diagnosis is necessary to determine the best treatment option.

Freckles can be genetic and their treatment is not necessary.  Freckles are harmless pigmentation spots that darken with UV exposure and fade away in winter. Applying an adequate sun protection is the most important prevention to avoid an accumulation of UV damages.

Age spots (‘liver spots’ or lentigo solaris/senilis) develop gradually through exposure to sunlight over the years. The older we get, the more spots appear on the most sun-exposed parts like our face, décolleté and the back of the hands. Lighter skin types are more prone to developing them.
Prevention by careful UV protection is the best way to avoid age spots and UV damage. 

Freckles and age spots are often aesthetically unsightly but benign. They can often give the face and hands a very irregular complexion, resulting in a less fresh and older general appearance.
Age spots are usually most efficiently treated with pigment laser, IPL, chemical peels or cryotherapy. Skin care creams can lighten the spots, and the usage of appropriate skin products is critical as an aftercare following laser treatments; it also reduces the appearance of new spots. Annual care treatments in autumn or winter are recommended, because dysregulated melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment) always create new pigment spots when exposed to sunlight. Good UV protection remains essential to avoid further skin damage.