Did you ever wonder what causes brown spots on the face, chest and hands?
The most common culprit is years of exposure to the sun.
No one is born with freckles—they’re all the result of sun damage. Freckles come from ultraviolet radiation that reacts with melanocytes in our skin, causing them to become enlarged and overactive.
Melanocytes are pigment producing cells, located in the lower layers of the skin giving skin its’ color. Over time, this increased melanocyte activity causes the formation of brown spots in adults. These are also commonly referred to as “age spots,” in the elderly.
When we are exposed to the sun, there can be an overproduction of these cells in certain areas. This can leave spots behind long after your tan has faded. Some people may have a few spots, while others may have numerous patches called hyperpigmentation.
As the sun triggers the melanocytes in the skin, it reacts by darkening the skin to protect it from burning, which results in a tan.
Brown spots or hyperpigmentation may also be triggered by certain medications. After taking hormone medications and antibiotics, many people have found that they are left with patches of darker pigmentation. This can be especially seen if they have had unprotected sun exposure while on these medications.
Treatment options for brown spots are available ranging from specific lightening products to clinical medical grade peels and IPL Laser treatments. IPL also known as Intense Pulse Light, Photofacial, and Photorejuvenation target the brown spots by using a pulsed light based laser breaking down the pigment while generating new collagen in treated areas.
Chemical Peels will also help to fade and slough off superficial brown spots.
The proper use of a micronized zinc oxide SPF daily is imperative, not only in preventing new damage but also in protecting the skin during and after IPL and Photofacial treatments.
To schedule a consultation for hyperpigmentation and age spots, visit us at Lasting Looks Clinic . For more information on IPL, Photofacial, and Photorejuvenation go to https://www.lastinglooks.ca/photofacial-ipl-toronto