If you’ve noticed the appearance of small or large brown spots on your face, or dark skin spots that seem to get even darker after sun exposure, you are dealing with sun spots. Solar lentigo (sun spots) are caused by years of UV skin damage from too much sun exposure. At California Skin & Laser Center we offer several solutions for the removal of dark skin spots.
How do dark skin spots occur?
Our skin color comes from melanin, which is produced by melanocytes. When melanocytes are exposed to years of UV radiation, they can begin producing too much melanin. The result is dark skin spots which can be a cosmetic and health concern.
How do you treat dark skin spots?
Two of the most common removal methods for skin spots are lasers and IPL. Both treatments selectively target melanocytes, leaving the healthy cells undisturbed. Both solutions are safe and effective ways to minimize the appearance of dark spots from sun damage.
Laser treatments
Laser treatments utilize a special wavelength of light to target the dark spots. The light breaks up the excess melanin, which causes the discoloration to fade. Laser treatments are quick, and results can often be seen after just one or two sessions.
IPL Treatments
Intense Pulsed Light photo rejuvenation emits multiple colors of light at the same time and then uses filters to deliver a specific wavelength depending on your condition. This highly customizable treatment allows the doctor to choose settings based on your specific case.
The IPL wand is directed over the treatment site to lighten the sun damage. In addition to removing dark spots, IPL can also even out skin tone. Treatments last about thirty minutes and four treatments are usually needed for optimal improvement.
Other treatments
Other skin resurfacing treatments may also be effective at smoothing out the texture of skin and removing dark skin spots. Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and prescription topical creams may all be recommended.
If you are in the Stockton, Lodi or Elk Grove areas, call 209-751-4292, 209-330-0764 or 209-900-1343 for more information on our treatments for dark skin spots.
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