BROWN SPOTS and BLEMISHES
Brown spots and blemishes on the face, neck, and chest are common skin concerns that can affect people of all ages. These discolorations can be caused by various factors, including sun exposure, aging, hormonal changes, genetics, and certain skin conditions. Understanding the causes and available treatments can help address these concerns effectively. Brown spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, occur when there is an excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Some common types of brown spots include:
- Sunspots or Solar Lentigines: These are flat, tan to dark brown spots that develop as a result of prolonged sun exposure. They are most commonly found on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and chest.
- Melasma: Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that appears as flat stain-like brown or grayish-brown patches, often on the convexities of the face such as the apple of the cheeks, upper lip and temples. It is commonly associated with hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or the use of hormonal contraceptives.
- Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): PIH occurs as a result of inflammation from injury to the skin, such as acne, wounds, or rashes. It causes dark spots or patches that can persist after the initial inflammation has healed.
Treatment options for brown spots and blemishes include:
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams and serums containing ingredients like hydroquinone, tranexamic acid, kojic acid, retinoids, vitamin C, and niacinamide can help fade hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone. Prescription-strength topical treatments may be added for more stubborn or severe cases.
- Chemical Peels: Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, which exfoliates the outer layers and helps to fade brown spots. Different types of peels are available, ranging from mild to more intensive, and a dermatologist can recommend the most suitable option for your specific needs.
- Laser and Light Therapies: BroadBand Light treatments and laser treatments can target brown spots and blemishes by specifically targeting excess pigmentation. These treatments work by removing the blemished skin leading to a more even skin tone. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.
- Electrodessication, also known as electrosurgery or electrocautery, is a medical procedure commonly used to remove various skin lesions, including sunspots or solar lentigines. It involves the use of high-frequency electrical current to selectively target and destroy unwanted pigmented cells. During the procedure, a local anesthetic or topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area to minimize discomfort. A specialized instrument with a fine needle or probe that emits high-frequency electrical energy is gently touched to the brown spot or lesion, delivering the electrical current to the targeted area. The electrical current generates heat, which effectively destroys the pigmented cells. As a result, the unwanted brown spot or lesion is vaporized or coagulated, removing it from the skin’s surface. Electrodessication is known for being a quick procedure that often requires only one treatment session. However, it’s important to note that electrodessication may have certain considerations, particularly for patients with skin of color. One potential side effect is the development of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in these patients. PIH refers to the darkening of the skin in response to inflammation or injury, which can occur after electrodessication treatment. This is a particular concern for individuals with darker skin tones, as they are more prone to developing PIH.
- Glacial® Rx is the first and only CryoAesthetics™ treatment that uses precision cooling to fight inflammation behind melasma and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). World-recognized scientific founders figured out a way to harness the biological relationship between cold and skin and reshape the way we treat skin conditions with controlled temperatures. Today, Glacial® Rx is the first and only treatment that uses precision cooling to reduce inflammation and to increase skin brightness from inside out. Glacial® Rx uses Cryomodulation™ – a novel process using controlled cooling to target skin inflammation, skin discoloration, and thermal injury from other treatments. It works by:
Downregulating Inflammation
It decreases pro-inflammatory mediators and increases anti-inflammatory mediators to calm inflamed skin.
Accelerating Exfoliation
It removes dead skin and stimulates the production of new, healthy skin cells.
Normalizing Melanin
Melanin transfer is impaired and pigmentation is normalized.
Reducing Thermal Injury
Precision cooling calms inflammation, redness, and pain from other treatments, like laser- and heat-based treatment.
Providing Topical Anesthetic Relief
Cooling delivers gentle numbing to soothe discomfort caused by other treatments.
Scientifically Proven:
“What’s different with cryomodulation is the level of control you can exert. It turns out, a few degrees makes a big difference in what happens.”
R. Rox Anderson, M.D., Scientific Founder
It’s important to note that prevention is key in managing brown spots and blemishes. Wearing mineral sunscreen daily with every two hours application when outdoors, using protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure can help prevent the formation of new spots and protect the skin from further damage.
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Dr. Lopez demonstrates how she protects herself outdoors or while driving.
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