Sunspots, age spots, melasma, acne marks: Whatever you call it, hyperpigmentation can be as difficult to treat as it is to avoid. Hyperpigmentation begins in the late teens and early twenties and gets progressively worse as you age. It can be caused by cumulative exposure to the sun or tanning beds, hormones, genetics, and/or the environment. Luckily, there are many things that can be done to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. If you notice spots that have grown or changed in size, are multicolored or bleed, visit your dermatologist.
1 – Laser treatments
Commonly called photofacials, IPL uses specific spectrums of light to target damaged skin, like age spots, liver spots, freckles, rosacea, or telangiectasias. The treated skin is typically a little swollen, red, and sensitive after an intense pulsed light treatment. Over the next few days, brown spots and other blemishes will begin to surface on the skin. The spots may actually raise and look like dark coffee grounds on the skin. These spots will naturally flake off over the following days, leaving your skin glassy, radiant, and clearer than it did before. Laser treatments are typically done in a series for best results. https://desertbloomplasticsurgery.com/oasis-aesthetics/ipl-lumecca/
2 – Chemical peels
Naturally, the skin sheds dead skin cells in a process called cell turnover rate, where new skin cells are created and old skin cells are shed. This process slows down as we age, which is when aging and hyperpigmentation begin to show. Chemical peels accelerate this process and use agents that peel those layers of skin, refining the skin and allowing newer and healthier skin to present itself. Have questions about chemical peels? Our Master Aestheticians are happy to help and answer any questions you may have about chemical peels and hyperpigmentation.https://desertbloomplasticsurgery.com/oasis-aesthetics/chemical-peel/
3 – Product
Vitamin C, licorice, Hydroquinone, kojic acid, niacinamide, green tea: The list goes on for ingredients to look for in skincare products for hyperpigmentation. It can seem overwhelming at first, but with a skincare professional’s help, you’ll be on your way to treating those sunspots in no time. We highly recommend ZO Skin Health for a comprehensive skincare regimen that targets hyperpigmentation. However, certain products should not be used together or should only be used for a short time, so please refer to your local ZO Skin Health provider for a customized skincare regimen. https://desertbloomplasticsurgery.com/oasis-aesthetics/products/
4 – Maintenance
As always, continue using SPF, especially when doing treatments such as IPL, chemical peels, and using products with active ingredients in them. SPF is key to prevent premature aging, some forms of cancer, and hyperpigmentation. When looking for a good sunscreen, look for SPF 30 or above and make sure it’s broad-spectrum SPF, which means it protects your skin from both UVA and UVA rays. Don’t forget areas like the lips, eyelids, neck and ears.
