Hi Traci-
I should have listened to your mother also! My mother used to tan with baby oil and iodine and sun screen was virtually non-existent when I grew up. I grew up sun burned for 4-5 months of every year. For about a year I had a chemical peel every month. My skin was bright and shiny and quite lovely, but the "freckles" and sun damage were relatively uneffected. I did a photo light facial where you are flashed with a bright light and the dark spots are hardened and basically peel off your face. I loved the results, but the whole process is pretty expensive. They recommend 6 sessions and when I had it done it was about $2000 for the six sessions. I did a "test" session for $250. I did not go back because the procedure was very painful. They always show the forehead or chin, which were fine, but get to the cheeks and nose and near the eyes--massive pain, despite topical pain killer. What we'll endure for beauty huh? I had freckles and dark spots peeling within days. My skin looked great. I might consider doing it again, because now I'm five years older and need it more than ever. I've also forgotten how much it hurt.
Good luck,
S.