The cause?
Dark/brown/sun/age spot (Hyperpigmentation) are due to the overproduction of melanin in skin. It can be triggered by a lot of different things such as estrogen and progesterone that can increase the level of melanin. You can see them in pregnant women. The sun exposure can increase the level of melanin. We have more dark spots after the summer; and age can increase it hence you can see dark age spots in older patients. Other factors, like skin irritation as a result of acne, waxing, and harsh scrubs, can also cause dark spots.
Now that you know where dark spots come from, Are there solutions for these unwanted blemishes?
When it comes to dark spot treatments, there are so many options out there that it can be hard to know where to start. What ingredients should you look for? And most important, which ones will get rid of them?
Medical grade brightening serum uses ingredients like vitamin C and phytic acid to help improve uneven skin tone and discoloration. This is a temporally solution and may not be a good option for sensitive skin.
Vitamin C – Vitamin C can be used as a topical antioxidant that helps to block free radicals from causing oxidative damage to the skin (which can lead to wrinkles and a dull complexion, among other things). “It also inhibits enzymatic processes that produce melanin in the skin, as such it can help to reduce dark coloration of the skin.
Hydroquinone – It has been used for the last 50 years. It can be found over the counter with lower concentration. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called tyrosinase, which aids in the production of melanin, the less tyrosinase produced, the less melanin produced.
Kojic acid – It is used to lightens the skin and is best used in conjunction with hydroquinone for maximum results. It works by suppressing a key factor in the activity of the pigment cells. The risk commonly associated with topical kojic acid is allergic dermatitis. Those with sensitive skin should opt for small doses during night time only since inflammation and irritation can be side effects. Also, don’t expect speedy results. It takes months to see results.
Azelaic acid – Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring extract from oat, wheat, or rye that interferes with production of abnormal pigmentation. It has antibacterial properties that can help banish acne and the scars pimples leave behind.
Laser Treatments – Lasers are the most impactful treatment to reduce dark spots with no side effect, if performed by trained professional while using the right laser technology. They use a focused beam of light that has a specific target or chromophore to break up and eliminate the pigment particles in the skin. If right laser technology is not used, it delivers less focused light and may have an unwanted effect on the surrounding skin, especially in darker or tanned skin.
Chemical peels – Peels remove the upper layers of dead skin, helping to reduce the dull appearance of the skin so that it reflects light better and appears to glow. Combination of right peel and laser will have the best effect on skin while removing these spots.
A lot of information to digest? so, how do I get started?
The best option is to allow out trained professional to take an image of your skin using our state of art imaging technology and examine layers of your skin to customize the best option for you. Book your next free consultation by clicking here >>>>
