No one can turn back the clock on the natural aging process, and we all have to deal with changes to our skin as we get older. One common issue that many people deal with is sunspots.
If you have sunspots and are looking for effective treatment, there are several options available.
What are sunspots?
Sunspots, also called liver spots or age spots, are small brown blemishes that appear on the surface of the skin. These blemishes can range in shape and size but usually appear on the face, neck, and shoulders.
If the spot is a true sunspot, it is harmless and noncancerous, but patients are always encouraged to see their doctor for an accurate diagnosis of any abnormal blemish.
What causes sunspots?
As the name implies, sunspots will usually develop on the skin after sun exposure. Specifically, ultraviolet radiation will multiply certain skin pigments that cause the appearance of the dark spots.
Exposure to the sun stimulates the body to increase the production of melanin as a means of defense against damaging rays. In the majority of people, this increase in melanin production results in a suntan, but in a percentage of the population, the melanin increase is uneven. This means some areas become darker than others. Continued exposure to the sun further darkens existing sunspots, as melanin production increases with each additional exposure.
People over the age of 40 are more likely to develop sunspots, as well as people with lighter skin.
5 Ways to Get Rid of Sunspots
People generally seek to get rid of sunspots for cosmetic purposes. The following options help many to manage this condition to look and feel their best.
1. Natural Remedies
There is a wide range of natural and at-home therapies that can help to lighten sunspots. These include:
- Aloe vera
- Foods or supplements rich in vitamin C and E
- Apple cider vinegar and other sources of acetic acid
- Milk and buttermilk applied to the skin
To lessen the likelihood of a negative interaction or allergic reaction, always speak to your doctor before attempting any of these or other natural treatments for sunspots. The effectiveness of these treatments can vary from patient to patient, but many people report some success in lightening the spots.
2. Creams and Lotions
There are a number of topical creams and lotions that may help in the treatment of sunspots. Ingredients including glycolic acid, hydroquinone, kojic acid, or deoxyarbutin are common active agents for these creams.
Retinol, derived from vitamin A, is another type of cream that many people use in an attempt to lighten sunspots and other blemishes. Once again, always inform your doctor or dermatologist regarding your skin care regimen.
Retin A and its derivatives are available by prescription. These creams can greatly reduce sun spots and fine wrinkles. They can cause skin dryness and must be continued to retain the benefit.
3. Stem Cell Therapy
By using the body’s own cells in a regenerative capacity, stem cell therapy offers the potential to rejuvenate the body, including the skin. Because of this, doctors are using stem cell treatments more frequently for cosmetic purposes.
To treat sunspots, physicians can inject stem cells directly into the skin of areas with frequent dark blemishes. The stem cells then work with the body’s natural regenerative systems to lighten sunspots, along with other potential benefits such as increased elasticity.
4. Radiofrequency Microneedling
Another effective option for sunspots is radiofrequency microneedling. This involves a specially trained professional using a small device with small insulated needles that deliver high frequency radio energy directly into the skin. Radiofrequency microneedling stimulates skin growth in a way that can dramatically improve the texture and appearance.
The procedure is relatively quick and involves minimal discomfort. No anesthesia is necessary for this 20 – 40 minute procedure and the tiny wounds typically heal in a matter of hours.
5. Laser Resurfacing
This treatment for sunspots is also known as fractionated laser resurfacing. A specially trained skin care professional can use a wand-like instrument to remove layers of damaged skin, including sunspots. This enables new skin to grow in its place, effectively diminishing sunspots.
The length of a procedure varies on a case-by-case basis, depending on the specific approach. The Thermafrax procedure at Innovations Medical offers minimal downtime and a quick recovery for patients with all skin types who are dealing with sunspots.
Contact Innovations Medical for Sunspot Treatment
If you’re looking to get rid of sunspots, Innovations Medical is here for you. Our skilled professionals help you decide which treatment is best for you – keeping you informed and confident in the next steps. We’ve been helping our patients look and feel their best since 2005, and even our most advanced procedures are often minimally invasive.
To learn about your options for sunspot removal and how Innovations Medical can improve your life, call us at (214) 643-8665 or schedule an appointment.